The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Goodwin C. Groff (MCSN: 0-30968), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 19 September 1950. When his battalion was attacked at night by a hostile force of battalion strength, supported by five tanks and an ammunition truck, Captain Groff courageously moved from platoon to platoon across a fire-swept hillside, directing and controlling the fire of his men. By his inspiring leadership in the face of intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire, he was largely responsible for his company’s success in destroying two of the hostile tanks and in killing approximately three hundred of the enemy. During the engagement, he continually kept his battalion commander informed of the progress of the action, thereby aiding in the destruction of the enemy along the entire battalion line. His exceptional skill and aggressive determination despite the heavy odds, were contributing factors in the company’s ability to launch an attack within thirty minutes after repelling the enemy. Captain Groff’s unwavering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.