The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Gerald V. Woodard (ASN: 0-1289004), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 31 August and 1 September 1950 in the vicinity of Yongsan, Korea. On the night of 31 August the enemy attacked and surrounded a group of observers and liaison personnel of which Major Woodard was a member. Despite the intense enemy fire, Major Woodard remained in an exposed position by his radio during the bombardment and attempted to maintain contact with all units of the battalion. When it became evident that the battalion positions had been overrun he organized the surrounded group and set up a defensive position. When this position was overrun by a fierce enemy attack he skillfully withdrew his force to another hill, collecting stragglers from other units and adding them to his force. Discovered by the enemy again, Major Woodard withdrew his force across a rice field, reorganized his group and led them in an attack upon another hill. When this hill was taken 35 American soldiers were found and added to his force. At this point he organized another platoon and moved directly toward friendly lines. Under the bold and courageous leadership of Major Woodard the force attacked and overran several enemy-held positions, finally entering friendly lines at 2200 hours, 1 September 1950. The calm and courageous leadership displayed by Major Woodard during this ordeal saved approximately 100 American soldiers from certain capture or death. The gallantry and heroic conduct of Major Woodard throughout this operation were such as to reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.