The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Sterling S. Woods (MCSN: 2101086), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company B, Battalion Landing Team 1/3, THIRD Marine Division, in Tinh Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam on 10 May 1967. During Operation Beaver Cage Corporal Woods’ squad was providing right flank security for his platoon when they were taken under devastating automatic, small-arms and mortar fire from an estimated two companies of Viet Cong and North Vietnamese regulars. As the enemy assaulted the Marine position, he steadfastly stood his ground, in the intense enemy fire, to enable his platoon. He remained in his precarious position, causing many enemy casualties, until he was mortally wounded. By his bold initiative, dauntless courage and selfless devotion to duty, he was instrumental in saving numerous Marines from further injury or possible death, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.