James D. Woller of Stevens Point is to be presented the Bronze Star Medal for his service to the nation during World War II in the European theater. Woller is an alumnus of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) having earned his master�s in natural resources in 1973.

The medal ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 13, at UWSP in the Founders Room, Old Main Building.

According to Gary Thompson, assistant professor of military science at UWSP and a major in the U.S. Army National Guard, Woller was previously awarded the Combat Infantry Badge for his actions in the European theater during World War II. He served with the 3rd Armor Division, 36th Armored Infantry Regiment and saw combat in the Hurtgren Forrest and during the Battle of the Bulge.

Woller was medically evacuated from the battlefield due to cold weather injuries. And while aboard a train to Paris during his evacuation, his train was attacked by German forces.

As a result of a study conducted in 1947 by the Department of Defense, the policy was implemented that authorized the retroactive award of the Bronze Star Medal to soldiers who had received the Combat Infantryman Badge during World War II.

"This recognition is long overdue and UWSP�s ROTC cadets and program are honored to take part in this medal presentation," said Thompson. The award will be presented by Lieutenant Colonel Scott Bolstad, professor of military science at UWSP, as he is the senior ranking military officer stationed in this area.

 Woller is a retired federal employee who had worked with the U.S. Soil Conservation Service.

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