THE WALL OF FACES

Great sadness fills our hearts today
As pipes and drums, in slow march play.
A comrade’s fallen by the way,
And now we say goodbye.

This hero to the very end
Was more than just a casual friend,
Who would a stranger’s life defend,
And now we say goodbye

But we shall cherish, all our days,
The character this life portrayed
With sacrifice so freely made,
And now we say goodbye.

The hand salute, o’er Stars and Stripes,
And distant skirl of highland pipes,
Bid last farewell with hero’s rights,
And now we say goodbye.

While here on Earth, you gave your best.
Now in the Master’s arms you rest.
T’is by your memory we are blessed.
And now we say goodbye.

Dear Lt John Woodall, Thank you for your service as an Infantry Officer. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Happy Valentine's Day, it just passed. Time passes quickly. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage, guidance, and faithfulness, especially now. Rest in peace with the angels.

We can never truly repay the great debt we owe our fallen heroes. May those who served never be forgotten. Rest in peace 1LT. Woodall, I salute your brave soul. My heart goes out to you and your family. Semper Fidelis!

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice. Thank you for stepping up and answering your country's call. Rest easy knowing you will never be forgotten.

John B. Woodall
DATE OF BIRTH: 26-Jun-43
PLACE OF BIRTH:
Chicago, Illinois
HOME OF RECORD:
Naperville, Illinois

Silver Star
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS
DURING Vietnam War
Service: Marine Corps
Rank: First Lieutenant
Battalion: 3d Battalion
Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF
GENERAL ORDERS:
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant John B. Woodall (MCSN: 0-93518), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Platoon Commander with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 30 April 1967. As First Lieutenant Woodall led his men in an assault on Hill 881, north of Khe Sanh, the Platoon was taken under devastating fire from machine guns and automatic rifles. The initial burst of enemy fire felled the two point men who were closest to the hidden bunker. Several attempts to reach the two critically wounded Marines were thwarted by a hail of deadly fire from the enemy position. Immediate medical attention was necessary to save their lives. With a total disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Woodall grabbed a rifle and placed accurate fire into the bunker. He then charged the bunker and killed both of its enemy occupants. From this position he laid down covering fire enabling the two Marines to be carried to safety. As he covered their withdrawal, First Lieutenant Woodall was mortally wounded by an enemy sniper. His heroic actions and unselfish devotion to the welfare of his men were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.