The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Woodrow S. Marsh (MCSN: 938256), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Member of Company C, Fifth Engineer Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 23 March 1945. When the tanks could not advance across an antitank ditch at the base of Hill 362 on 1 March, Private First Class Marsh rapidly and efficiently breached the ditch with his tractor, working ahead of the front lines under heavy mortar fire and in close proximity to the enemy, in order that the tanks might spearhead the infantry assault. On 20 March, he commenced construction of a road through extremely difficult terrain and, after operating his tractor under heavy fire for three days, enabled the flame throwing tanks to advance and pave the way for the infantry. His inspiring courage and perseverance under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.