Percy Marunui Murphy with his mum and sister.

Percy served enlisted as a 16-year-old old and served with B Company. He saw action in Italy, where he was seriously wounded and had to have his right leg amputated. He was one of four brothers to serve in the war, 

Following the war, Percy was a successful businessman, community leader, serving the new Murupara Borough Council and becoming the first Maori mayor, elected for three consecutive terms from 1960 to 1969.

He was an active member of Rangitahi Marae and in Ngati Manawa affairs.