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 Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Sidney Samuel Goodkin (ASN: 20505631), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces during the battle of Hill 700 at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 12 March 1944. Captain Goodkin maneuvered his troops with exceptional tactical skill and energy, exerting unrelenting pressure on the firmly established enemy and inspiring his men to push forward despite great hazards. Throughout the 5 1/2 hour attack, he was in the forefront of the lines, shouting encouragement to his men and repeatedly exposing himself to the sweeping fire of the enemy to gain the best vantage point from which to direct the assault. When one of the smoke grenades being used to blind the enemy fell accidentally into a nearby trench, Captain Goodkin picked up the burning grenade in his bare hands and threw it before it could ignite incendiary grenades in the trench. In performing this bold act, he was painfully burned but continued to lead the attack with undiminished aggressiveness. After all but one dominant fortification had been destroyed by flame throwers, rocket launchers and grenades, he led his troops in a final, furious charge which completely overran the Japanese position and liquidated all enemy opposition. Captain Goodkin’s superior leadership and battle courage prevented the enemy from occupying a strategic position which constituted a threat to the American beachhead at Empress Augusta Bay. Captain Goodkin’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, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.