The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Coryton M. Woodbury (ASN: 0-252344), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 34th Infantry Division, in action on 26 and 27 September 1944, near Sambucco, Italy. Major Woodbury was assigned the mission of supporting with artillery fire a combined armored and infantry attack on the town of Sambucco. When the advance became halted, Major Woodbury dismounted from his tank in the face of intense enemy fire and assisted a company commander in guiding the tanks through the best avenues of approach. Reaching the edge of the town, Major Woodbury and his fellow officer led the attack into the town. Many of the enemy were killed and the strongpoints were neutralized. When the attacking infantry was halted by heavy resistance, Major Woodbury led his tanks through the bitter enemy fire to neutralize two enemy machine gun nests and enable the infantry to continue its advance. Major Woodbury then provided covering fire with his tanks to support the infantry in outflanking the enemy positions, surrounding the German forces and capturing seventy-five prisoners. The following morning the advance was halted by intense artillery, mortar, machine gun and sniper fire. Realizing the threat to the success of the assault, Major Woodbury stood erect in the turret of his tank, shouted words of encouragement to the crew of the other vehicles and led the armor in capturing the objective. As the Germans retreated they were machine gunned by his force and many were killed. Major Woodbury’s vigorous leadership inspired his men and his gallant performance reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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) Coryton M. Woodbury (ASN: 0-252344), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 34th Infantry Division, in action during World War II. Major Woodbury’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.