The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) James R. F. Woods (ASN: 0-1324876), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, France, on 11 August 1944. During the course of an attack against strong enemy positions near ****, Lieutenant Woods, leader of a machine gun platoon, crossed open terrain under enemy fire to administer first aid to a wounded soldier. During the night of 11 August as units of the *** Infantry Regiment moved to a rendezvous point for a dawn attack, Lieutenant Woods went forward to establish contact with his battalion commander. It was necessary for him to proceed through enemy occupied territory. Although wounded in both hands, he accomplished his mission. He refused evacuation until the attack had been launched and the issue no longer in doubt. His gallantry and tenacity of purpose reflect high credit upon his character as an officer.