The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) John C. Wood, Jr. (ASN: 0-377607), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery C, 7th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When the enemy counterattacked and threatened to overrun his battalion, Lieutenant Wood skillfully placed effective fire on the advancing enemy and then successfully directed the withdrawal of his men to a more favorable location. The timely and accurate fire he was able to deliver from this new position was of material assistance in destroying the attacking force. Lieutenant Wood’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.