The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Donald S. Wood (ASN: 36738425), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 7th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 16 February 1945 and 29 March 1945. Private Wood was mounted on the lead vehicle of a reconnaissance patrol. When the vehicle struck a mine, seriously wounding the driver and stunning the section leader, he immediately rendered aid to the driver, then helped the section sergeant reorganize his men. On another occasion, after contact had been made with the enemy under extremely adverse conditions, Private Wood volunteered to stay in position and maintain contact. On the following morning he volunteered to serve as driver of the lead vehicle, the original driver having become a casualty. While driving the vehicle, he struck a mine, wounding the platoon leader and drawing immediate, intense artillery fire. Disregarding his own safety, Private Wood rendered aid to the wounded platoon leader. His courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.