"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty. Pvt. Fryar's battalion encountered the
enemy strongly entrenched in a position supported by mortars and automatic weapons.
The battalion attacked, but in spite of repeated efforts was unable to
take the position. Pvt. Fryar's company was ordered to cover the
battalion's withdrawal to a more suitable point from which to attack,
but the enemy launched a strong counterattack which threatened to cut
off the company. Seeing an enemy platoon moving to outflank his company,
he moved to higher ground and opened heavy and accurate fire. He was
hit, and wounded, but continuing his attack he drove the enemy back with
a loss of 27 killed. While withdrawing to overtake his squad, he found a
seriously wounded comrade, helped him to the rear, and soon overtook
his platoon leader, who was assisting another wounded. While these 4
were moving to rejoin their platoon, an enemy sniper appeared and aimed
his weapon at the platoon leader. Pvt. Fryar instantly sprang forward,
received the full burst of automatic fire in his own body and fell
mortally wounded. With his remaining strength he threw a hand grenade
and killed the sniper. Pvt. Fryar's indomitable fighting spirit and
extraordinary gallantry above and beyond the call of duty contributed
outstandingly to the success of the battalion's withdrawal and its
subsequent attack and defeat of the enemy. His heroic action in
unhesitatingly giving his own life for his comrade in arms exemplifies
the highest tradition of the U.S. Armed Forces."
From Pvt. Fryar's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on May 9, 1945.
Fryar Stadium in Fort Campbell, KY
Fryar Circle in Stadtberge, Germany
May you be at peace,
Brian & Melonie
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