PFC Merrill J. Goddard

Our Hometown Heroes

PFC Merrill J. Goddard

Killed in Action in France

Merrill J. Goddard was born in 1921. Not much is known about Goddard’s early life but we do know he joined the US Army on October 15, 1942, at Ft. McPherson.

In 1930, Goddard’s mother, Lois, was widowed. She worked as a Towel Folder at the (Lowell) Bleachery. The family lived at 420 N. 2nd Street, Griffin. Apparently, Merrill Goddard also worked for four years in the textile industry in Griffin before he joined the military service.

PFC Goddard was declared missing in action on November 11, 1944, where he was fighting in France. He was officially declared dead on November 25, 1944. Goddard’s mother Lois, and a sister, Mrs. Paul Beauchamp of Williamson, were listed as the survivors.

PFC Goddard is buried in the American Cemetery in Luxembourg. The fallen GS Hometown Hero will be honored with a plaque installed in Griffin for his service to our nation.