The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major James L. Wood, British Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in action against enemy forces in September 1944 at Le Havre, France. While his company of the 2d Battalion, The Gloucestershire Regiment, was on the start line of an important attack, the company commander was killed and the company disorganized by particularly heavy enemy shelling. Major Wood immediately assumed command and by aggressive action and personal bravery in the face of great danger inspired the company to such a degree that it was able to attack on schedule. Continuously with the leading platoon during the action, Major Wood gave an outstanding example of leadership and courage.