Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

No. 3 Troop, No. 2 Commando, 1st Special Service Brigade, Combined Operations Headquarters, War Office, British Government

Awarded on:

July 5th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Chariot

"On 28 March 1942, during the Commando Raid at ST. NAZAIRE, Cpl. Woodiwiss was a member of an assault party whose tasks were the destruction of enemy light coastal defence guns, covering the Dry Dock.

During the attack on the first gun position, this NCO showed personal bravery of the highest order. He was forever in the thick of the action and after butter hand to hand fighting with the gun crew, in which he played the most fighting with the gun crew, in which he played the most prominent part, he personally was successful in placing the firing charges which resulted in the complete destruction of the gun.

Later in the action, and again showing tireless devotion to duty and outstanding zeal, this NCO took up an extremely exposed position with a Bren gun and covered the force away from the bridgehead, personally acting as a rearguard and thus securing the rear of the force from enemy attack.

His personal bravery and tireless devotion to duty were an example to all and his conduct throughout the whole operation is worthy of high recognition."