The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Woodrow W. Pruett (ASN: 39001927), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Armored Division on 1 September 1944, near Pontedera, Italy. Without regard for his own personal safety, Technician Fifth Grade Pruett, accompanied by another soldier, crossed in front of direct line of enemy sniper fire and through an unswept mine field to cover the evacuation of three wounded comrades. After successfully accomplishing his mission and while escorting the wounded to safety, Technician Fifth Grade Pruett was seriously wounded by a Schu-Mine. The courage and unselfish devotion to duty displayed by Technician Fifth Grade Pruett reflect great credit upon the armed forces and are deserving of the highest praise.