James F. Goldman

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James F. Goldman (335193), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company I, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert islands, from 20 to 24 November 1943. Fearlessly countering bitter enemy resistance, Private First Class Goldman climbed to the turret of a supporting tank when no other means of controlling the tank’s fire were available and directed its guns against strong Japanese installations. Constantly exposed to heavy hostile fire, he continued for a period of almost thirty minutes with this hazardous task until the enemy resistance was reduced. His indomitable fighting spirit and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Goldman and the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 01489