John B. Woodall

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to John B. Woodall (0-93518), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Platoon Commander with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 30 April 1967. As First Lieutenant Woodall led his men in an assault on Hill 881, north of Khe Sanh, the Platoon was taken under devastating fire from machine guns and automatic rifles. The initial burst of enemy fire felled the two point men who were closest to the hidden bunker. Several attempts to reach the two critically wounded Marines were thwarted by a hail of deadly fire from the enemy position. Immediate medical attention was necessary to save their lives. With a total disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Woodall grabbed a rifle and placed accurate fire into the bunker. He then charged the bunker and killed both of its enemy occupants. From this position he laid down covering fire enabling the two Marines to be carried to safety. As he covered their withdrawal, First Lieutenant Woodall was mortally wounded by an enemy sniper. His heroic actions and unselfish devotion to the welfare of his men were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.