The following is the text of a letter presented to Becky and Murphy Turner in recognition of their years of contributions to the Emirates Natural History Group. The presentation took place 11 January 2005.

11 January 2005

The Committee and membership of the Al Ain chapter are pleased to present Murphy and Becky with lifetime memberships in the Emirates Natural History Group in recognition of their very generous contributions of time, enthusiasm and expertise over many years.

As a result of Murphy's initiative, we now have an idea where we are when we get lost! Until Murphy arrived on the scene, finding our way to sites was often a matter of complicated directions being passed down, from generation to generation of enthusiasts, often with reference to 'dead goat in the tree' or 'burned out Mercedes near the Shoe Mart sign.'

From a rather humble beginning with an old British Army map, Murphy scrounged, borrowed and discovered an assortment of maps that became the foundation of a now impressive collection of documents. As more technology became available, Murphy would add reference points using GPS devices. We were soon mapping our locations with reliable accuracy.

Whenever the group took on a new challenge, Murphy and Becky were there to help, prepared to pitch in any way they could whether helping on a reconnaissance trip or leading a tour group. As a Committee member, his contributions have always been constructive, appropriate and considered. His wise counsel has served the organization well.

On behalf of all those who have enjoyed your sincere friendship and benefited from your unselfish contributions, thank you, Murphy and Becky.

Brien Holmes
Chairman

Unfortunately Murphy passed away in June of 2005.  This is the announcement that went out to the group:

It is with deep sadness that I inform you that ENHG Life Member Murphy Turner passed away at 9:39 PM Mountain Daylight Time June 7th in Colorado. Murphy was a pillar of the group for the past 4 years as a member of the committee, organizer of the cartography special interest group and participating in planning and reconnaissance for our weekend trips. When Murphy and Becky left us in January to return to their home in Anchorage, Alaska, we were looking forward to seeing them in October for a visit here in UAE. In April, it appeared Murphy had suffered a small stroke, but as his disorientation and confusion increased he was ultimately diagnosed with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease in May. Murphy passed away peacefully surrounded with his family.