Childhood
Audie Murphy grew up the 6th or 7th (debatable based on sources) of twelve children, nine of which survived to be at-least eighteen. His parents, Emmett Berry and Josie Bell Murphy were hard working farmers, in a constant struggle to make ends meet. After his father deserted them in 1936, Audie dropped out following his 8th grade year in order to support his mother and siblings. At the age of twelve he began to shoot rabbits in order to put food on the table and became known for his excellent aim and accuracy. When he was sixteen years old, his mother passed away leaving him as the father figure as well as the breadwinner for the household, forcing him to get a job at a local store.
Key Dates & Ages:
• June 20th 1924 - Birth
• 12 yrs. - Father Abandoned family, Dropped out of school
• 16 yrs. - Mother Died, Became sole provider, Got job at local store
Sources
http://www.mo.gov/mo/mophotos/rural/RU_OldFarm_Murry_111506.jpg
