2nd LT John F Murphy USAAC WWII
John F Murphy Post 303 History
Shot down on March 4, 1945, over France while flying a one-man bomber.
He was listed as KIA on his 33rd mission.
John F Murphy, for whom Post 303 was named, was a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army Air Corps and was married to a Bonita Springs girl related to the Reahard Family, who donated the land for Post 303.
Like many patriotic Americans, he gave his all and his life in World War II, so that future generations may remain a free people. Lt John F Murphy was killed in action on March 4, 1945, while flying a one-man Bomber during special flights in France. He is therefore one our heroes and his name is immortalized with the The American Legion Post 303.
John was the son-in-law of Mr & Mrs. Everett Reahard, Bonita Springs, FL
Groundbreaking, December 30, 1956
Photos from John F Murphy History Archives 1956..1969 | Author: Historian Anthony Rocco
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John F Murphy Post 303, Circa 1960
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John F Murphy Post 303, Circa 2022
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On September 28, 2022, deadly Hurricane Ian roared up the Southwest Coast of Florida as a Category 5 Hurricane with 160 mile winds and 6-7 foot storm surge engulfing and destroying everything in its path, including the John F Murphy Post 303 Home.
After two years of navigating FEMA regulations, local permitting processes, and investing thousands of dollars, the dedicated efforts of contractors and members paid off as the resilience of the American Legion Family shone through. Post 303 Home officially reopened on October 18, 2024.