The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Leonard E. Wood (MCSN: 0-54062), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to Company G, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 3 July 1952. Leading a combat patrol deep into hostile territory on a mission to capture enemy prisoners, Second Lieutenant Wood courageously set up a base of fire and directed two assaults against superior numbers of hostile troops while continually exposed to overwhelming enemy small arms and grenade fire. Although seriously wounded by a hostile mortar shell while directing the subsequent withdrawal, he refused medical attention and continued to lead his men to friendly lines. By his exceptional courage, coolness under fire and unyielding devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Wood served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.