The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Woodrow N. Phillips (MCSN: 2555765), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Assistant Patrol Leader with Company B, First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 23 July 1970, while patrolling enemy-controlled territory northwest of DaNang, a seven-man long-range reconnaissance team from Company B encountered a well-armed hostile unit and, during the initial exchange of fire, killed three enemy soldiers. Almost immediately, the Marines also came under intense fire from another direction and Lance Corporal Phillips, who had been walking the dangerous point position, was seriously wounded. Although unable to move his legs, he quickly resumed firing and killed two enemy soldiers before a corpsman moved him to a covered location to administer first aid. Realizing the gravity of the situation and the need for maximum firepower, Lance Corporal Phillips, utilizing his arms to pull himself forward, valiantly crawled to a more effective fighting position and, continuing to fire his weapon, assisted in beating back the determined hostile soldiers. By his courage, heroic fighting spirit, and steadfast devotion to duty, while suffering intense pain, Lance Corporal Phillips inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.