The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Alex K. Goodman (ASN: 36511122), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 43d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on Fork Ridge, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 14 May 1945. In an assault on Fork Ridge, Sergeant Goodman so skillfully maneuvered his platoon that the objective was quickly accomplished. As the men prepared to make the ridge secure, the enemy surprisingly opened fire on the men, employing three heavy machine guns and a number of snipers which caused several casualties. Sergeant Goodman immediately deployed his men to cover two of the machine guns but the third one, well hidden, continued to fire. Sergeant Goodman with firm determination tried to bring fire on the hidden machine gun when he received a wound. Despite his wound, he chose to remain with the men, bringing fire on the enemy gun and directing the evacuation of the wounded. It was only after the last wounded man was evacuated that Sergeant Goodman allowed himself to be evacuated. Sergeant Goodman’s skill in handling men, his coolness and daring under fire, and his inspirational leadership growing out of great loyalty to his command, earned him the deep respect and admiration of all his men. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.