On August 25, 2021, the members of the Laytonsville District Volunteer Fire Department along with Mayor Ruspi, Volunteer Division Chief Mike Kelley, and other distinguished guests, honored Chief Murphy Richards with the dedication of Laytonsville's new Engine Tanker 717 in his honor. Festivities included a small dinner, a few speeches, the blessing of the new Engine Tanker, and the traditional backing in of the apparatus into the firehouse.

Murphy joined the Laytonsville District Volunteer Fire Department as a cadet firefighter in 1969. Murphy is also a lifelong resident of Laytonsville. He became one of the first Emergency Medical Technicians in Montgomery County. He soon became a heavy driver on all apparatus. Throughout the many years, Murphy has held every line officer and administrative position at Laytonsville. He has been a top responder at Laytonsville since he first joined. Murphy has been a part of the planning on every volunteer-owned apparatus that Laytonsville has purchased. He has served on many committees and has represented Laytonsville on the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Rescue Association, the Maryland State Firemen’s Association, and served on the Montgomery County Fire Board. In 1995, Murphy was elected into the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire-Rescue Association Hall of Fame. In 2019, he was awarded the Joseph Weisgerber 50 Year Plus Service Award. Murphy continues to serve as an Assistant Chief and is still active in running calls. Murphy is a second-generation firefighter. His father Pat was a Laytonsville charter member and his son, Tim, is a firefighter at Laytonsville. His wife, Joanne is a Life Member of the Auxiliary. Murphy is a legend whether he thinks that or not. He is one of the most dedicated members in our history.

The members would like to thank Murphy for all his dedication to Laytonsville District Volunteer Fire Department.