The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Major Woodrow Wilson Bailey (ASN: 0-327993), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Battalion of the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 30 June 1944, in France. While reorganizing his battalion to attack an enemy strong point, Major Bailey fearlessly reconnoitered to within 150 yards of the enemy position. Discovering that a nearby church steeple was being used by the enemy as an observation post, he returned to his battalion, assumed command of one of the platoons and courageously led a successful attack on the church. From the same vantage point previously enjoyed by the enemy, Major Bailey observed two enemy machine gun emplacements firing on his battalion. In spite of painful wounds sustained during the attack, he led two tanks forward to a position from which they could fire on the enemy guns and with great coolness under constant enemy observation, he directed the fire of the tanks until the emplacements were eliminated. Major Bailey, by his extraordinary heroism and determination, exhibited military leadership of great distinction. His extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.