Dale Bowyer

Birthplace: Manchester, Kansas

Branch of Service: Army

Unit: Company L, 376th Infantry Reg., 94th Infantry Div.

Theater of Operation: European

Enlisted / Commissioned: Jul 13, 1942

Discharged: Jun 1, 1945

Highest Rank: 2nd LT

Military Honors: Bronze Star, Distinguished Service Cross

Honored By: Talmage Historical Museum & Library and the Eisenhower Foundation

Dale Bowyer was graduated from Dickinson County High School in Chapman, Kansas, and Kansas State College at Manhattan, Kansas. Following induction into the U.S. Army, Dale Bowyer served with the S.U. 3710 before attending the Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He held the rank of corporal before being commissioned a second lieutenant upon successful completion of the Officer Candidate Course (possibly spring 1943). While leading his platoon under heavy fire near Sinz, Germany, in January 1945, 2LT Bowyer was severely wounded by an enemy mine. According to the Distinguished Service Cross citation, “. . . Refusing evacuation even though both of his feet were shattered, he shouted instructions and encouragement to his men from where he lay. Inspired by his bravery the men reformed, moved clear of the minefield and continued the advance. Only then did Lieutenant Bowyer permit himself to be evacuated, first crawling clear of the minefield to prevent injury to the litter bearers. . . .” Lt. Bowyer also received the Bronze Star for his actions. Courtesy of Talmage Historical Museum & Library, Talmage, Kansas.