Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    36th Tank Battalion

    Division:

    8th Armored Division

    Action Date:

    March 5, 1945

    Headquarters, 8th Armored Division, General Orders No. 18 (April 2, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Brunk A. Goesman (ASN: 36072263), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 36th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Sergeant Goesman’s tank was knocked out by anti-tank fire. He exposed himself to the dismounting crew. He then dismounted and fought as a foot soldier, taking six prisoners, including a bazooka team. While moving forward on foot to designate targets and support tanks, he was killed by a burst of artillery fire. Sergeant Goesman acted without consideration for his own safety. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.