Joseph Goodrich

Norman Schwartzkof once stated, "The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is actually doing it. In Joe Goodrich's case this statement could be entirely correct. Just three years after high school Joe Goodrich decided to enroll in the military. He may not have wanted to, but in his mind it was the right thing to do. He spent thirteen weeks at a grueling training camp. After that, he was sent to battle. He was shipped to Australia were he would begin to put everything on the line and risk his life for our country.

Joe Goodrich had a pretty normal childhood. He was born on December 7, 1919. He grew up in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. Joe attended Howe Grade School from kindergarten to seventh grade. Then, he attended Lincoln High School. When he was in high school, he participated in many extra curricular activities, especially sports. His main sports were baseball, football, basketball, and track. From this point on it seemed like he would go on to college, get a job, and start a family. Joe, on the other hand had a whole different plan.

After three years of college and playing football for his school, Joe decided to enroll in the military. He went to thirteen weeks at a training camp base. After that, he was immediately sent to combat. First, he was stationed in Australia and the South Pacific. Next he was sent to fight in the Philippines. At Ormic Bay Joe was fighting and he got wounded by shrapnel in his back, neck, and hand. This injury took three weeks to recover. He was awarded for his bravery and willingness to fight again with a Presidential Citation, a Purple Heat, and a Combat Infantry Badge. His journey in the military was soon to be over.

On April 8, Joe Goodrich was killed in action while fighting in the Philippines. He was missed dearly by his family and friends. He was only about 25 years old when he died. He literally gave his life for his country and died in honor. If it weren't for men and women like Joe our country would be a lot different than it is today.

Emily Wolfe, Student
Marshfield Junior High