Foster J. Sayers

He drew German fire so his company could seize the hillside.

Foster Joseph Sayers was born in Centre County, Pennsylvania, on 27 April 1924. He grew up in the Howard area and enlisted in March 1943. He served as a private first class in Company L, 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, during the campaign in France.

Near Thionville on 12 November 1944, his company attacked Germans entrenched on a steep hill. Sayers pushed forward with his machine gun until he was only about twenty yards from their positions. Seeing his comrades exposed as they attempted to cross open ground, he moved still closer and deliberately drew the enemy's attention.

His close-range fire killed twelve German soldiers. From shelter behind a log, he continued engaging the position from its flank while the company advanced. Concentrated return fire killed him, but his assault helped the Americans capture the hill with few casualties.

Sayers was twenty and left a young family. His Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously; the Bronze Star and Purple Heart also recognized his service. He was eventually buried in Schenck Cemetery near Howard. His family preserved his awards, and the reservoir near his childhood community bears his name.