David Goudge

U.S. Army •1940-1944 •World War II
1LT

Their Story

David is my great uncle and was killed in action on September 28, 1944, while fighting the Japanese in New Guinea at Aitape. His body was never recovered and is still considered missing in action. David was 22 years old at the time of his death and had no wife or children of his own. His parents accepted his posthumously awarded Silver Star on September 7, 1945, for gallantry against the enemy. Gone but not forgotten.

“While 1LT David Goudge led a reconnaissance patrol of 11 men inland in search of enemy disposition and strength, they encountered an enemy observation post. The enemy made contact resulting in a brisk exchange of fire; thereafter the enemy reveled its well concealed superior force with increased machine gun and grenade fire. The only means of escape was to expose themselves to the enemy. David exposed himself drawing fire so his men could all escape resulting in him being shot and killed.”