In 1917 Godwin was sent to the Middle East to fight in the Sinai and Palestine campaign, giving command of the British yeomanry 6th Mounted Brigade, with the temporary rank of brigadier-general that September. In December he was awarded a Distinguished Service Order (DSO), The commendation for the award read; "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He attacked and captured an enemy position in the face of heavy shell, machinegun and rifle fire. Later, he directed the attack by his brigade on a strong enemy position, and by his skill and determination contributed largely to the success of the operation". He was also awarded a bar to the DSO in January 1918. He was soon after in May 1918, promoted to brevet colonel but still a temporary brigadier-general. In May 1918 he was made a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George, and returned to the General Staff that October. During the campaign Godwin's brigade had taken part in the advance on Jerusalem, the capture of Damascus and the battle of Aleppo.