Williams Harvey Goines: The first African American Navy SEAL

Born on Sept. 10, 1936, and passing from labor to reward on June 10, 2024, Williams Harvey Goines left an indelible mark on his family, friends and country. His love and unwavering commitment to his wife of 58 years, Marie Davis Goines, and his historic legacy are remembered with pride and gratitude.

Early life and roots

Mr. Goines’ life began in Dayton, Ohio, but it was in Lockland, Ohio, where his roots took hold and his vision for his destiny grew. Raised in a supportive family, he was the oldest of five children born to Lauretta and Luther Goines. His siblings included Charles Goines, Beverly Goines Seay, Janet Goines Houseton and Gary Goines.

Growing up in a segregated community, he learned to swim in Mill Creek and the Little Miami River due to Lockland’s segregated pool. His story is a testament to the resilience and grit of an entire race of people who learn to pivot and succeed despite the hurdles.

As a youth, Bill’s entrepreneurial spirit shone as he cut neighbors’ lawns, eventually expanding his business with friends working alongside him. Additionally, the family farmed the land they owned, selling fresh vegetables to neighbors and local stores across the street from their Wayne Avenue family homes.

Lockland Wayne High School played a pivotal role in Goines’ formative years. As a segregated school, it provided an environment where African American students were taught exclusively by Black staff members. The school’s motto, “Lest We Forget,” was a constant reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring their heritage and the struggles their ancestors overcame.

Inspired by Frogmen

As a teen, while watching the 1951 film “Frogmen,” a seed of service sprouted in young Bill. Four years later, after graduating, he enlisted in the Navy. Despite challenges, including an injury in the high school wood shop class that cut the tip off his right-hand trigger finger. When questioned by Navy evaluators for his suitability for underwater demolition.” I told them I was left-handed.”

Mentorship and guidance

When interviewed by his great-niece Cherise Seay Pugh, she shared, “Uncle Billy always gave credit to his friend Nikki Giovanni’s father.” Jones Gus, Giovanni, “for mentoring him and for words of wisdom and encouragement. When asked about racism or discrimination, she said his answer never wavered: “Training, he knew he had to train and rely on his training.” Racism was not going to derail his goals.

Breaking Barriers

Inspired by the movie “Frogmen,” Goines’ road to becoming a Navy SEAL began with underwater demolition training. Despite significant obstacles, he remained diligent and advocated for himself, often facing discouragement.

After a rigorous year of training on an island in Southern Europe, which included underwater, ground combat skills, and air paratrooper training, four U.S. Navy officers, 85 U.S. Navy enlisted sailors, five Army Rangers, and two foreign naval officers began the training. Fourteen completed the training, one of whom was Goines, graduating in 1957. 

By 1962, under President John F. Kennedy, he was the first chosen for SEAL Team Two. Proficient in English, French, and Spanish, he taught Vietnamese forces to speak all three languages to aid in communication with local forces. He completed three tours in Vietnam. Later, as a Navy Parachute Demonstration Team member, he performed over 600 jumps.

A legacy of service

After retiring from the Navy, Mr. Goines became Chief of Police for Portsmouth, Virginia’s school system. He also dedicated his time to speaking to minorities about service and becoming a SEAL.

His remarkable life and career are recognized and displayed at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., at the Vietnam War tribute.

Mr. Goines’ awards and recognition include the Bronze Star, Navy Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon. His remarkable journey from watching a movie to becoming the first African American Navy SEAL epitomizes tenacity and resolve.

A life well lived

Give a thought and prayer to his wife, Aunt Marie, family and friends, who will miss Bill Goines. He lived his call of duty humbly. His life, a testament to quiet determination and the enduring spirit of service, leaves a legacy that fills his family, community and country with pride and gratitude.

SEAL is the acronym for Navy Sea, Air, and Land Teams.

Personal Reflection

I, Sharen Sierra was born in Lockland, and my mother, Alice King (now deceased), was also a Lockland Wayne High School graduate. She instilled in me the importance of honoring my roots and those who came before me, such as Uncle Billy, whose family is near and dear to me. The Lockland Wayne Legacy lives on in the graduates, kids and grandkids.