Service members from all branches of the military who receive assistance from Semper Fi & America’s Fund may use recreational sports and competitive athletics as a tool in the recovery process through the Team Semper Fi Peter Murphy Sports Program.
Named in honor of the late Peter Michael Murphy, this program provides adaptive equipment; professional instruction and clinics; mentorship; coaching; and physical outlets through activities such as cycling, mountain biking, snow sports, water sports, triathlon, fishing, team sports, and more.
Murphy was a Semper Fi & America’s Fund Board Member and Counsel to the Commandant of the Marine Corps from 1984 to 2004 who passed away in 2013 due to complications associated with Parkinson’s syndrome. The civilian equivalent of a three-star general, Peter Murphy was the recipient of numerous awards, including the Presidential Rank Award of Distinguished Executive in 1996 and 2004 and the Presidential Rank of Meritorious Award in 1992 and 2000.
In 1997, the Secretary of Defense presented him with the Department of Defense Distinguished Civilian Service Award, the highest honor awarded by the Secretary to a career employee.
Team Semper Fi has representation at all levels, to include weekend sports enthusiasts, paralympians, and professional athletes. Team members participate around the country to build community, raise awareness, and inspire fellow service members on their own road to recovery.
Inspiration
and Drive
The idea for the Team Semper Fi Peter Murphy Sports Program was inspired by those wounded service members, with both visible and invisible wounds, who refused to let their challenges prevent them from competing in athletic events, and whose drive and determination was an inspiration to us all.
Overcoming Challenges
The team is made up of service men and women of all abilities who have overcome significant challenges in their service to our country and who have embraced the athletic spirit on their road to recovery. Service members dealing with life changing injuries, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress, or critical illness are encouraged to join a Semper Fi & America’s Fund sports program.
Join the Team
Joining Team Semper Fi gives you the opportunity to become an active member of an important community! We provide our athletes with coaches and specialized sporting equipment as well as cover entry fees and travel expenses to athletic events. Team members are also given the opportunity to receive high-level training from former and current Olympic and Paralympic athletes through a partnership with the U.S. Paralympics.