Master Chief William Harvey Goines, the first African American Navy SEAL and a descendant of Civil War Union soldiers, passed away on June 10 in Virginia Beach at the age of 87. Goines, whose pioneering career and personal legacy intertwined with significant historical events and figures, leaves behind a rich tapestry of courage and dedication.
Overcoming Segregation and Embracing Challenges
Born on September 10, 1936, in Lockland, Ohio, a Cincinnati suburb, William Goines grew up during a time of strict racial segregation. Despite facing significant obstacles, including being barred from the local public swimming pool, Goines taught himself to swim in a nearby creek. This determination set the stage for his future achievements.
Goines’ father, Luther Harvey Goines, often faced racial discrimination at work despite his light complexion. He was frequently fired when employers discovered he was married to a Black woman. This environment of systemic racism only strengthened Goines’ resolve to overcome barriers.
Historic Naval Career
In the early 1960s, William Goines was selected as the first and only Black man to join the inaugural Navy SEAL team formed under President John F. Kennedy. His naval career spanned 32 years, including three tours during the Vietnam War. Goines retired in 1987 as a Master Chief Petty Officer, the highest rank an enlisted sailor can achieve. Throughout his service, he received numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star, the Navy Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, a Combat Action Ribbon, and the Presidential Unit Citation.
In 2023, Goines was honored with the Lone Sailor Award by the U.S. Navy Memorial, recognizing his exemplary service and post-military achievements.
Also, read; College Students Tased by Atlanta Police During George Floyd Protests to Receive $2 Million Settlement
Legacy and Influence
Beyond his military accolades, Goines’ personal life was equally impactful. He was mentored by the father of renowned poet Nikki Giovanni, a leader at the local YMCA who imparted valuable life lessons to the young Goines. Additionally, his family connections include his nephew Gregory Seay, a drummer with the Isley Brothers, and his niece Kim Seay, a vocalist with Parliament Funkadelic, linking him to foundational figures in the world of Hip Hop.
Goines’ lineage also speaks to a profound historical legacy. He descended from two Civil War Union soldiers, one of whom was the sole Black soldier in his unit. His great-grandfathers, including John Turner, who became Ohio’s first Black dentist, exemplified resilience and progress in the face of adversity.
Following his retirement from the Navy, Goines remained active in his community. He served as the police chief for the Portsmouth, Virginia, school system and later volunteered to recruit minorities into the Navy SEALs. His dedication to service and community impact continued well beyond his naval career.
Family and Personal Reflections
Goines, affectionately known as “Billy” or “Uncle Billy” within his family, grew up in a household rich in history and values. The family home, built by his emancipated great-grandfather John Turner, was a place of learning, generosity, and hard work. Goines’ upbringing in this environment shaped his character and determination.
In a 2020 interview, Goines reflected on his childhood, recounting how his family-owned farmland and a lunch counter, providing essential services to the Black community in Lockland. Despite the lack of resources, Goines’ family fostered a sense of resilience and community spirit.
