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<em>James Clark Woods</em> was born on 20 May 1937, one son of a West Point graduate. Jim grew up an “Army brat,” and that did seem to predestine his life. He had aspirations of service to his country from his early years, proudly joining the Class of 1959 at the United States Military Academy in the sum­mer of 1955, in formation with his classmates at Trophy Point, experiencing that grand view of the Hudson River.</p>
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Soon Jim found himself a comrade at arms in Cadet Company M-1, at that time destined to be one of the last “runt” compa­nies, because it was to be “integrated” with taller cadets in his last two years at West Point. Though vertically challenged, Jim vig­orously tackled the demands of academics, sports and other rigorous academy training without hesitation. He was always on the go but able to relax with Hi-Fi records instead of losing himself in the “brown boy.” He tried the Spanish club and contributed frequently as a member of <em>The Pointer</em> staff.</p>
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As a dedicated wrestler, Jim worked very hard at building his body and honing his competitive skills. His enthusiasm for com­petition also was displayed on the handball courts, on the golf course and in skiing. He was active in the weight lifting club for three years and, as an upperclassman, took great pride in being a platoon right guide.</p>
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Jim also delighted in diversions that could be leveraged for their enjoyment but also provided a release from the intense schedule of each day. For example, Jim and his M-1 companymates were exuberant in taking over the front row in the theater to enjoy the movies and become involved with as much enthusiasm as allowed. He also was known to voice and/or whistle his amorous regards for females as the M-1 truck was convoyed to the athletic fields. In fact, his only serious complaint involved a nearby girl’s school that featured less weekend free time for its stu­dents than did West Point.</p>
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COL Fred J. Woods, Jim’s father and a graduate of the Class of 1922, had entered the Army Air Corps upon graduation and served in World War II as an aviator. Jim’s mother Carol was a champion swimmer. Before the war, the senior Woods were stationed in the Philippines where Jim was born. Two other children, F. Michael and Milton C. Woods, completed the family.</p>
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After their dad left active duty, the Woods family settled in Ross, CA, where they at­tended the Episcopal Church and played ac­tive, contributing roles in their community. The influence of their father’s cadet training and long service and mother’s athletic prow­ess translated into high standards for the boys as they were growing to manhood.</p>
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His classmates fondly remember Jim as “Woody,” of obvious derivation. It certainly had nothing to do with a nature that was open, friendly and very lighthearted. In fact, Jim revealed a big heart and an inner drive to match. His family background kept him grounded in a strong faith in God; and the ingrained model of an officer and gentle­man, growing up in the presence of his dad, was clearly with him. With this family influ­ence present through all the indoctrination to various Army branches, Woody never considered any other branch of service than the Air Force.</p>
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As a First Class cadet, Jim met June, who quickly became the love of his life. They were married in July of 1959 while on leave prior to their first training assignment and flight school. After receiving his wings, Jim joined the 55th Headquarters Reconnaissance Squadron, at McClellan AFB, CA, where he served until 1963. Then, as a captain, he was assigned to the 75th Attack Squadron. At this time the Viet Nam War was calling Air Force pilots to serve in dangerously exposed roles; Captain Woods was no exception. In February of 1969 he was reassigned to the 20th Tactical Air Squadron.</p>
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In this assignment, Major Woods was a Dart Forward Air Controller and accumu­lated 246 days in combat. His aircraft, the OV-10 Bronco, was used by the Air Force for spotting targets and guiding fighter air­craft to them. On 19 Oct 1969 he, along with LTC Frank Briggs, was flying a Bronco southeast of Bien Hoa in this role, directing F-4’s to their assigned missions. The engaged aircraft began to receive ground fire, and Jim’s OV-10 took a direct hit. The resulting crash killed both men.</p>
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Sadly, Jim’s death meant he was not able to return to his family once again, as he had dreamed. June, the faithful and supportive military wife, was waiting with their son, Thomas C. Woods, and daughter, Wendy C. Woods. Jim preceded his mother and brothers in death. The family, and June in particular, was honored to be presented the flag of our country at interment services at the cemetery at West Point.</p>
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The name Major James C. Woods is also remembered at panel 17W, row 092, of the Viet Nam Memorial in Washington, DC. Among his honors are an Air Medal and Purple Heart. His classmates annually have held memorial services for Jim and other fall­en heroes of the Class of 1959 at the wall.</p>
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Jim’s West Point brothers proudly salute him. Well done; be thou at peace.</p>
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<em>—Classmates</em></p>