Lyde Goodwin enlisted with Capt. J.L. McAllister in Bryan County September 1, 1862. He served in the Hardwick Mounted Rifles, Co. A. When the consolidation of units was organized, Company A of the HMR became Co. K of the 7th Regiment, Georgia Cavalry.
As a soldier in the HMR, he was detached for police duty in Savannah. After the 7th formed, his detachment continued listed as Detailed on Special Service in Savannah.