Portman Supporting the Nomination of Butler County's Sgt. Robert A. Woods for Presidential Citizens Medal

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to the President supporting West Chester, OH’s Sgt. Robert A. Woods’ nomination for the Presidential Citizens Medal for his exemplary military service and his continued work helping soldiers and their families in need.

“I am honored to support the nomination of Sgt. Robert A. Woods for the Presidential Citizens Medal,” said Portman. “Having gotten to know Sgt. Woods, I can speak firsthand to the impressive service and comfort Sgt. Woods and the Ohio Patriot Guard provide to the families of our fallen heroes. He is truly deserving of this award”

Sgt. Woods is a highly decorated Vietnam veteran who continues to work to improve military life and to bring honor and respect to the Armed Forces. Fellow Ohioan Edwina Campbell nominated Sgt. Woods for his work with the Ohio Patriot Guard and for his volunteer efforts in helping wounded and disabled veterans.

The Presidential Citizens Medal recognizes citizens who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their fellow citizens that go well beyond the scope of their regular jobs. Citizens are encouraged to help in the selection process by nominating individuals they feel are deserving of the award.

A copy of the letter sent to the President is included below.

September 13, 2011

President Barack H. Obama                                                  

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.

Washington, D.C.  20500

Dear President Obama,

I write to bring to your attention the nomination of Robert (Bob) A. Woods for the 2011 Presidential Citizens Medal.

Mr. Woods has been nominated for the prestigious recognition of service that honors those who exemplify selfless dedication.  Mr. Woods is a highly decorated Vietnam veteran and a Native American Indian whose name is listed on the Cherokee Warriors Wall for his service to his country and his ancestors.  In addition, he works to improve military life and to bring honor and respect to the armed forces.

Through his work as State Ride Captain for the Ohio Patriot Guard, Mr. Woods demonstrates a high standard of commitment and dedication to others.  Having gotten to know Mr. Woods while paying respects and visiting the families of soldiers and marines killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan, I can speak firsthand to the impressive service and comfort Mr. Woods and the Ohio Patriot Guard provide to the families of our fallen heroes.

The Ohio Patriot Guard’s primary mission is to stand in honor and respect at military funerals for both veterans and those killed in action.  I understand that Ohio is one of the most active states in America for providing this service, and Mr. Woods ensures the Ohio Patriot Guard participates in deployment and welcome home activities for troops.

Beyond his leadership role with the Ohio Patriot Guard, Mr. Woods works to help wounded veterans reenter civilian life offering encouragement and support.  He has coordinated the funds and volunteers necessary to build custom homes and improvements to accommodate the needs of our wounded soldiers. 

Please give all due consideration to his nomination.

Sincerely,

Rob Portman

United States Senator