PFC, William B. Lowery

Bill Lowery, from Saltville, Virginia, was a 19-year old rifleman in the U.S. 34th (Red Bull) Division, 133rd Infantry, 1st Battalion.  Rifle companies in the division suffered a combined 65% casualties during the first Battle of Monte Cassino.  Lowery was later wounded during the breakout from the Anzio Beachhead, followed by the subsequent advance on Rome.  He later fought in the Battle of the Gothic Line during the Northern Apennines Campaign.  His decorations include: the Bronze Star, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Purple Heart, the Presidential Unit Citation and the Croix de Guerre with Palm.  Lowery survived the war, passing away in 2005 at age 81.
Lowery was awarded the Monte Cassino Medal of Honor posthumosly on April 10th, 2012.

PFC, Richard J. Andrew

Richard J. Andrew fought with Co.B 133rd Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division in Italy during the second World War.  On February 2nd, 1944 his Company attacked the town of Cassino, Italy taking three prisoners and occupying two buildings.  Losses were severe, and four of his five man mortar crew were killed.  He was wounded, but managed to stay and help hold the outpost until they were relieved by New Zealand troops on February 22nd.  Only 27 of his Company walked out of Cassino, and he still has the Nazi shrapnel lodged behind his left lung as a reminder of the battle.  On March 17th, 1944 his Company was shipped to Anzio where they fought until the breakout on May 23rd, when they commenced their long march to liberate Rome.
(Above, Andrew showing his many medals and honors)
(Right, Andrew wearing the Monte Cassino Medal of Honor awarded in May 2012.)

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