Sportsman Channel Special Event Presents Emotional Tribute:
"MURPH: The Protector"
on Thursday and Friday, September 4-5 at 7 p.m. ET

Cable Premiere of documentary is part of network's "Salute to Service" initiative

"http://www.thesportsmanchannel.com/shows/murph-the-protector/#http://www.thesportsmanchannel.com/shows/murph-the-protector/">[MURPH: The Protector] reminds audiences that bells and whistles, budgets and effects aren't necessary so long as filmmakers have human stories of bravery and valor to tell." - Washington Post
"MURPH: The Protector" reminds us of the valor expended on distant front lines and the holes left at home." - New York Times
NEW BERLIN, WI (August 27, 2014) - Sportsman Channel, the leader in outdoor television for American sportsmen and women, will air the network cable premiere of the emotional and highly-acclaimed documentary MURPH: The Protector on Thursday and Friday, September 4-5 at 7 p.m. ET.
MURPH: The Protector presented by Bravo Company is an intimate and in-depth feature-length documentary based on Lt. Michael Murphy's life of honor, courage and commitment, as told by his friends, family and teammates.

Murphy was raised in Patchogue, New York, attended Penn State University and joined the U.S. Navy to serve as a SEAL. Recently, the mission that cost Lt. Murphy his life in 2005 in Afghanistan was the subject of the 2013 Universal Pictures film Lone Survivor starring Mark Wahlberg. Taylor Kitsch portrayed Lt. Murphy in the film. Lt. Murphy was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor in 2007, America's highest military honor.

Lt. Murphy's Congressional Medal of Honor citation reads:

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as the leader of a special reconnaissance element with Naval Special Warfare Task Unit Afghanistan on 27 and 28 June 2005. While leading a mission to locate a high-level anti-coalition militia leader, Lieutenant Murphy demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of grave danger in the vicinity of Asadabad, Konar Province, Afghanistan...In his final act of bravery, he continued to engage the enemy until he was mortally wounded, gallantly giving his life for his country and for the cause of freedom. By his selfless leadership, courageous actions, and extraordinary devotion to duty, Lieutenant Murphy reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

"MURPH: The Protector is an emotional rollercoaster that documents the life of a true American hero and Sportsman Channel is proud to have the opportunity to televise the cable network premiere of his story," said Graig Hale, vice president of business development for Sportsman Channel. "Lt. Murphy's story of selfless acts of heroism and sacrifice, in and out of active duty, reflect Sportsman Channels Salute to Service initiative that recognizes and honors all who serve and put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms we enjoy in America."

"He was always very protective of people," reflected Lt. Murphy's mother Maureen Murphy.

"A lot of people say things about people that passed away and they might be rightfully glorified. Anything that has been said about Mike is spot-on true...he really was a protector," reminisced childhood friend James Emmerich.

MURPH: The Protector presented by Bravo Company is part of Sportsman Channel's Salute to Service initiative. Salute to Service is an ongoing multimedia effort to celebrate American servicemen and women, as well as first responders, and raise awareness of issues and opportunities facing all the men and women who serve this great country. Murphy's story epitomizes the heroism, sacrifice and courage that all men and women serving the United States of America endure around the world.

Launched in 2013, Salute to Service spans everything from series programming and documentaries to social media and editorial. Salute to Service takes center stage on Sportsman Channel during every major holiday that commemorates the U.S. military's sacrifices and successes, including Memorial Day, July 4th and Veterans Day. In expanding its content and coverage in 2014, Sportsman Channel's initiative reflects its audience's strong connection to military service, stories, people and patriotism.
Sportsman Channel is a part of the nation's largest multimedia company targeted exclusively to serve the information and entertainment needs of outdoors enthusiasts. Sportsman Channel is dedicated to provide the most entertaining and informative hunting, shooting and fishing multimedia content while also promoting conservation and the tradition of the sportsman lifestyle.

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