Waverly B. Woodson Jr.

Waverly B. Woodson Jr. was an American soldier who served as a medic during World War II. He is most notably recognized for his heroic actions during the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944, at Omaha Beach, Normandy, France. Despite being wounded himself, Woodson went above and beyond the call of duty to save the lives of numerous fellow soldiers. His bravery and dedication have made him a significant figure in military history, particularly in the context of African American contributions to the United States military.

Early Life

Waverly Bernard Woodson Jr. was born on August 3, 1922, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a time of racial segregation and discrimination in the United States, Woodson faced numerous challenges from an early age. Despite these obstacles, he was determined to serve his country and make a difference.

Military Service

Woodson enlisted in the United States Army during World War II, where he was assigned to the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion, an all-Black unit. The battalion was tasked with setting up explosive-rigged balloons to deter enemy aircraft. Woodson trained as a medic, a role that would define his contributions to the war effort.

On D-Day, Woodson's landing craft was hit by German artillery, injuring him. Despite his wounds, he managed to make it ashore at Omaha Beach, where he set up a makeshift medical station. For the next 30 hours, without regard for his own safety, Woodson treated over 200 soldiers, performing amputations, administering blood plasma, and saving countless lives. His actions on that day exemplified extraordinary bravery and skill.

Recognition and Awards

Despite his heroic actions, Woodson's contributions were not immediately recognized with the highest military honors, a fact that many attribute to the racial prejudices of the time. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his bravery, but it was believed that he had been recommended for the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration. In recent years, there have been calls to posthumously award Woodson the Medal of Honor, in recognition of his extraordinary heroism and service.

Later Life and Legacy

After the war, Woodson returned to civilian life and continued to serve his community. He passed away on August 12, 2005, leaving behind a legacy of courage, perseverance, and dedication to duty. Woodson's story is not just a testament to his own heroism but also highlights the broader contributions of African Americans to the United States military and the ongoing struggle for racial equality and recognition.

In recent years, Woodson's story has gained more attention, serving as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers during World War II and the importance of recognizing heroes from all backgrounds. His life and service continue to inspire future generations, embodying the ideals of bravery, selflessness, and commitment to helping others.

See Also

• African Americans in World War II
• D-Day
• 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion

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