The sad news is this: Lindell “Lindy” Sawyers died Sept. 3, 2009. He died in the Presbyterian Home at Summerville SC, where he had lived for more than five years. I am Lindell’s cousin and serve as executor of his estate.

When your invitation to this year’s convention arrived in the mail, having been forwarded by the mail service directly to my Bethlehem address, seeing the 99th insignia reminded me of two related items.

The first goes back to the early 1940s. Lindy was about 20, I was 10. Seeing him in uniform and wearing the 99th inspired great admiration in me and he became my instant hero – a relationship that lasted to the end.

During the years following his return from Europe, Lindy behaved like most ex-GIs and did not open up about most of his military encounters. After establishing contact with your organization [99th Infantry Division Association], he became more willing to relate some of these experiences.

This openness continued to develop; and he eventually assisted with the writing project leading to publication of “Upfront with Charlie Company: A Combat History of Company C, 395th Infantry Regiment, 99th Infantry Division,” by Vernon E. Swanson.

Lindy often spoke of the camaraderie that flowed from attending your conventions. These events were special and benefits came to him by being there. My wishes are with you now as you carry forward your memories of the 99th, so richly deserved.

Kenneth Sawyers

1822 Monocacy St.

Bethlehem PA 18018