The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Charles Wesley Wood (ASN: 0-424786), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the 91st Bombardment Squadron, 27th Bombardment Group (Light), Far East Air Force, in the Philippine Islands on 24 March 1942. Leading a combat patrol against the Japanese, Lieutenant Wood succeeded in securing vital positions and personally directed artillery fire from the tower of a church, at all times exposed to enemy mortar fire. Upon completion of his mission, he led his platoon back to the main line of resistance through devious and dangerous territory with only one casualty. By his outstanding initiative and courage, Lieutenant Wood reflected great credit on himself and the military service.