Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

First Lieutenant (Lieutenant)

Unit:

Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 6th Marine Division "The Striking Sixth", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

June 3rd, 1948

Awarded for:

Operation Iceberg

"For extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, from 19 to 21 May 1945. Although wounded in the right side by a mortar fragment during combat with the Japanese on 19 May, First Lieutenant Goheen refused immediate treatment until his platoon had gained a more advantageous position. When finally evacuated to the Battalion Aid Station, he gave invaluable information to the Battalion Commander concerning strongly defended cave emplacements facing his Company. Despite his painful wound, he insisted on returning to his platoon the following day and, while courageously leading his men in a daring assault against a key ridge position on 21 May, was wounded in the face and leg by an enemy hand grenade. Aware of the critical phase of the battle, he again refused to be evacuated and, in the face of intense machine-gun, mortar and grenade fire, continued to lead his platoon in the assault for four hours, thereby making possible the capture of this advantageous terrain. His courage and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 8600

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Second Lieutenant

Unit:

Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, U.S. Marine Corps

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Officer in Charge of a Rifle Platoon of Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, on 21 July 1944. Taking charge of a rifle platoon after the leader was wounded and evacuated, Second Lieutenant Goheen reorganized the platoon and, under heavy fire, led it against a determined foe. On 28 July, leading his platoon in a bold flanking movement to close a gap between the lines of two rifle companies, he prevented what might have been a major breakthrough and, accounting for many casualties, forced the opposition from their strong point. His courageous conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 24093