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<em>John Clarke Goldtrap</em>, familiarly “Goldie” to his many friends, was a member of the Wyoming National Guard before entering the Military Academy. Born in Regent, North Dakota, on 21 March 1912, he was appointed a cadet from at large, and entered the Academy with the Class of 1935. No “hive,” Goldie enjoyed some minor differences of opinion with the Academic Board, and was turned back to join the Class of 1936, thus commencing a highly agreeable and mutually prideful relationship. “Goldie” was a natural for the Infantry, and on 12 June 1936 he was commissioned in his chosen arm.</p>
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His first assignment was with the 2d Infantry Division, Fort Francis, Warren, Wyoming. He served there until June 1939, and then enrolled in the Regular Course in the Infantry School. After a brief tour at Fort Ord, California, he sailed from San Francisco in June of 1940 for the Philippine Islands. There he joined the famous 57th Infantry (Philippine Scouts). He died in action on 15 December 1944. Goldie was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, AUS, posthumously. He was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart.</p>