Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    339th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    85th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 11 & 12, 1944

    Headquarters, FIFTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 80 (June 28, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class William Edward Goga (ASN: 33439211), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 339th Infantry Regiment, 85th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Tremensouli, Italy, on 11 and 12 May 1944. When his platoon was pinned down by heavy crossfire from enemy pillboxes, Private First Class Goga crawled with his bazooka to an advantageous position, drawing heavy fire. With the aid of flares, he wiped out the entire emplacement and gun crew with the first round. He then crept through tracer fire to destroy a second pillbox, thereby permitting his platoon to capture the hill. When the Germans prepared to counterattack on the following morning, he inched his way to within 50 yards of a German gun and demolished it with five carefully-placed rounds, spoiling the counterattack plans. Private First Class Goga’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.