Arthur Gordon Goodwin enlisted for service with the Royal Australian Air Force on 10 October 1941. Goodwin's service included an overseas operational tour with the No. 78 Squadron, during which time he received a Mention in Despatches for gallant and distinguished service in the North-Western Area. His Service Record, held at the National Archives of Australia, includes the citation for the award stating: "As a pilot of No. 78 I/F Squadron Flight Sergeant GOODWIN has shown ability of a high order, while his determination and keenness to engage the enemy have been outstanding.he has taken part in 32 successful strafing and bombing attacks..."

On 4 August 1944, at the cessation of his overseas operational tour with the 78 Squadron, Goodwin was posted to the No. 2 Personnel Depot.

On 21 September 1945, Flying Officer Goodwin was piloting a Kittyhawk aircraft on a ferry flight from Labuan, Malaya to Oakey, Queensland. While flying through cloud his aircraft disappeared from view. Other Kittyhawks reported having seen an aircraft spin past through the cloud. While Goodwin's body was not recovered, there was an indication that his aircraft crashed into the sea, resulting in his death. Flying Officer Goodwin is commemorated on the Memorial's Roll of Honour.