Sylvanus William Godon

Sylvanus William Godon (June 18, 1809 – May 17, 1879) was an American naval officer who served in the Mexican–American and American Civil War.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Godon entered the United States Navy in 1819 as a midshipman. He joined the Navy at an early age as a way to receive an education after his father, a noted French mineralogist, went insane and became destitute. He served at sea in various parts of the world and was promoted passed midshipman in 1827, and to lieutenant on December 17, 1836.

He served on the as flag lieutenant to Commodore Isaac Hull of the Mediterranean Squadron from 1839 to 1841. Godon was accused of insubordination by Hull and sent back to the Navy Department for reassignment. He was found guilty of disobedience of orders and neglect of duty and sentenced to two years suspension from duty but the conviction was reversed by the Secretary of the Navy and no punishment occurred. Godon served during the Mexican–American War and commanded the bomb vessel at the Siege of Veracruz in 1847.

He was made commander on September 14, 1855. He remained on station until sailing for home on August 13, 1861. In 1863 he was promoted to commodore; and commanded the 4th Division of Admiral David Dixon Porter's fleet at the first and second battles of Fort Fisher, North Carolina, in December 1864 and January 1865. In the report of the latter action he was specially commended for the support rendered the commander-in-chief, and for the good discipline and accurate firing of his ship, the . Godon died on May 17, 1879