Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

Company B, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

January 25th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Stalemate II

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Herbert B. Goff, Jr. (MCSN: 364627), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Squad Leader serving with Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, on 15 September 1944. With his platoon pinned down by cross-fire from two machine guns during a particularly hazardous advance through deep jungle terrain, Corporal Goff boldly faced the withering barrage in a determined effort to outflank the Japanese opposing troops and, skillfully disposing his men for maximum effectiveness, fearlessly led them in a determined attack. Aware that the fire of his squad was insufficient to neutralize the heavily fortified emplacement, he pressed forward alone and, armed only with grenades and a submachine gun, succeeded in silencing the hostile weapon and annihilating the crew before he was fatally struck down by enemy fire. By his inspiring leadership, daring initiative and great personal valor in the face of almost certain death, Corporal Goff enabled his platoon to complete and extremely vital mission with a minimum of casualties, and his outstanding devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific Forces: Serial 0032 (25 January 1945).
Posthumously awarded.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

Company B, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division "The Old Breed", U.S. Marine Corps