Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

Battalion Battle Patrol, 1st Battalion East Surrey Regiment, 11th Infantry Brigade, 78th Infantry Division, British Army

Awarded on:

March 9th, 1944

"On the night of 13/14 Nov 43 Lt JM WOODHOUSE, who commands the Battalion Battle Patrol, led a small raiding party to PIAZZANO Stn (Map sh 147/2 ATESSA 344918). Guided by two friendly Italians this party attacked with explosives and grenades a number of houses known to be occupied as sleeping quarters by tank crews of part of 10 Panzer Division, which had been located two nights previously in this area. Thanks to the bold planning and leadership of Lt WOODHOUSE the enemy was taken completely by surprise. Casualties were inflicted on the enemy whilst one prisoner identified belonging to the Defence Company of 16 Panzer Division was captured and brought back to our lines. Lt WOODHOUSE brought the whole of his raiding party back to our lines without loss on completion of this successful operation. This raid was carried out by a small force against vastly superior numbers of the enemy, and entailed deep penetration behind the enemy's lines over very difficult country. Mos of the approaches to the harbour area has been mined. Throughout the raid Lt WOODHOUSE displayed great daring and was invariably to be found in the lead of the thick of all the fighting. This officer has constantly distinguished himself since he has ben with the Battalion both as a Platoon Commander and a patrol leader. His personal courage and coolness in action are a wonderful example to his men."

Rank:

Major

Unit:

22nd SAS Regiment Special Air Service (SAS)

Awarded on:

1957

"Major Woodhouse is an outstanding Special Air Service officer who has done more to enhance the operational reputation and technical skill of 22 Special Air Service Regiment than any other officer since the Unit's formation six years ago.

Many of the techniques now proving successful on deep jungle operations were conceived and developed by him personally and have now become standard procedure throughout the Regiment. His knowledge of the jungle and his ability to anticipate Communist terrorist intentions and reactions is of a standard which only a very few officers can be expected to achieve.

His aggressive leadership and outstanding personal example at all times have inspired his squadron in many successful actions with the enemy and during the last five months alone, eight Communist terrorists have been eliminated by men under his personal command."