The principal sources for Corporal Murray’s story were extensive interviews with Patrick Murray himself and the Marines, family members and friends who lived through these experiences with him. Some are directly quoted; others furnished detail or verification not specifically attributed to them.
For historical context and technical background, the story also relies on research of topics pertinent to Murray’s experience, such as the war in Iraq, military training and procedure, and the treatment of battle wounds. Sources include books, magazines, research papers, Web sites and newspaper and wire service accounts. Sources for specific episodes in this story include: No True Glory, A Frontline Account of the Battle for Fallujah, by Francis J. “Bing” West; “Saving Baby Mariam,” by Kevin Cullen of The Boston Globe; and “A Bittersweet Reunion,” by Sig Christenson of the San Antonio Express-News.