"He was an assistant squad leader in an attack against strongly defended
enemy positions on both sides of a stream running through a wooded
gulch. As the squad advanced through concentrated fire, the leader was
killed and Sgt. Mower assumed command. In order to bring direct fire
upon the enemy, he had started to lead his men across the stream, which
by this time was churned by machine gun and rifle fire, but he was
severely wounded before reaching the opposite bank. After signaling his
unit to halt, he realized his own exposed position was the most
advantageous point from which to direct the attack, and stood fast. Half
submerged, gravely wounded, but refusing to seek shelter or accept aid
of any kind, he continued to shout and signal to his squad as he
directed it in the destruction of 2 enemy machine guns and numerous
riflemen. Discovering that the intrepid man in the stream was largely
responsible for the successful action being taken against them, the
remaining Japanese concentrated the full force of their firepower upon
him, and he was killed while still urging his men on. Sgt. Mower's
gallant initiative and heroic determination aided materially in the
successful completion of his squad's mission. His magnificent leadership
was an inspiration to those with whom he served."
From Sgt. Mower's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on February 11, 1946.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
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