LUKE MURPHY
Wounded Warrior. Fighter. Patriot.
Retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Luke Murphy embodies resilience and determination, drawing from his deep-rooted military heritage. Proudly following in his family’s footsteps, Luke served two commendable tours in Iraq as part of the 101st Airborne Division. His second deployment as the Squad Leader of an 11-man Reconnaissance Team with the 187th Infantry Regiment was marked by profound bravery and sacrifice.
On April 25, 2006, while navigating the streets of Sadr City, Iraq after searching a landfill area, an explosively formed penetrator (EFP) blast struck Luke’s Humvee. The explosion resulted in the amputation of Luke’s right leg above the knee and severe injuries to his left leg.
Following the incident, Luke was transported to Landstuhl, Germany, and subsequently to Walter Reed Medical Center in the United States. Over the course of the first twelve months, he underwent nearly thirty surgeries and extensive physical therapy in the years following, a testament to his unwavering resilience.
Luke was awarded multiple commendations, among them the Purple Heart, and spent his final year as an active-duty soldier at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He medically retired after 7½ years of honorable service.
As part of his rehabilitation journey, Luke began competing in marathons and traveled around the world with the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans. He was also invited to join the National Campaign Team for the Wounded Warrior Project, sharing his personal story with recently injured servicemen and women, serving as a testament to the achievements that can follow an injury. He has played a crucial role in launching philanthropic initiatives that enable wounded soldiers and service members to enjoy the great outdoors, including hunting and fishing, with accommodations tailored to their specific disabilities.
In 2011, Luke graduated from Florida State University with a degree in political science and a minor in communications. Three years later, he became the proud recipient of a fully accessible home through Homes for Our Troops, an organization committed to constructing and donating specially adapted, custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 veterans. He went on to earn his real estate license and is a Florida Real Estate Broker and partner at Southern Land Realty. With a passion to serve, his current role at Mid-Florida Prosthetics and Orthotics allows him to channel his experiences into helping others, coordinating care for amputees and individuals with orthotic needs.
In addition, Luke is a keynote speaker, inspiring audiences with his story of strength, resilience, and determination to overcome adversity. His messages of hope and perseverance have motivated individuals to face their challenges head-on. He has captivated thousands at the Pentagon, addressed Fortune 500 companies, and delivered commencement speeches at various colleges and universities.
His memoir, Blasted by Adversity: The Making of a Wounded Warrior, shares his journey with readers around the world. It has been honored with a gold medal from the Florida Authors & Publishers Association’s President’s Book Awards.
Luke shares his life with his wife, Stephanie, and their two children, Rory and Hattie. Luke is a passionate supporter of FSU Football, frequently attending games to cheer on his alma mater in his free time.
