[1] He joined the US Army from Louisville, Kentucky in October 1873 at the age of 18 (although initially claiming to be 23)[2] and was assigned to Company B of the 9th Cavalry Regiment.

On August 19, 1881, he participated in a battle at Gavilan Canyon in New Mexico against Chief Nana and a small band of Apaches.

After the deaths of six men in his cavalry, including his lieutenant, Woods took command and fought to save the lives of many of his comrades.

Thirteen years later, on July 12, 1894, Sergeant Woods was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the engagement.

[1] On June 20, 1984, the US Army exhumed Woods' remains and gave him a full military funeral on October 28.