Waverly Woodson Jr., a medic who served in the only Black combat unit during the D-Day invasion of France in World War II, is set to be posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his exceptional heroism and unwavering dedication in treating wounded troops amidst heavy enemy fire. The announcement of this prestigious honor was made by Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, who has been advocating for recognition of Woodson's valor for years.
Woodson, a member of the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion, was just 21 years old when he participated in the historic Allied operation on D-Day. His battalion, the sole African American combat unit present that day, played a crucial role in setting up balloons to deter enemy aircraft.
Despite facing intense German fire as his landing craft approached the beach, Woodson displayed remarkable courage and selflessness. He tended to over 200 wounded soldiers for 30 hours under relentless small arms and artillery attacks before succumbing to his own injuries and blood loss. His actions earned him the Bronze Star at the time.
Woodson's widow, Joann Woodson, expressed that her late husband would have felt honored by the recognition, emphasizing his deep-rooted commitment to aiding those in need. While efforts are ongoing to secure the Medal of Honor for Woodson, the awarding of the Distinguished Service Cross, the second-highest U.S. military distinction, marks a significant step in rectifying historical injustices.
During World War II, approximately 1.2 million Black Americans served in the military, yet none were initially awarded the Medal of Honor. Following a study in the early 1990s to address potential oversights due to racism and segregation, seven Black troops were posthumously granted the Medal of Honor in 1997.
Woodson's case for the Medal of Honor was considered during this review, but his decoration file was missing, with his personnel records destroyed in a 1973 fire at a military facility. Van Hollen's office was contacted by Woodson's family to seek assistance in advocating for the recognition he rightfully deserved.
Van Hollen hailed the forthcoming award ceremony as a significant milestone in correcting past wrongs and honoring the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of Waverly Woodson Jr. on that historic day of the D-Day invasion.
