Rufus Geddie Herring (June 11, 1921 – January 31, 1996) was a United States Naval Reserve officer and a recipient of America's highest military decoration—the Medal of Honor—for his actions in World War II.

After being commissioned in the rank of ensign in December 1942, he received diesel engine instruction at the University of Illinois, followed by orders to the Amphibious Training Base at Solomons, Maryland.

Herring was promoted to lieutenant, junior grade, in March 1944 and between February and July of that year he participated in the invasions of Kwajalein, Saipan, Tinian and Guam.

On February 17, while shelling enemy positions in support of Underwater Demolition Team swimmers, the ship was heavily hit by Japanese counterfire and went out of control.

Upon recovering the second time, Lieutenant Herring resolutely climbed down to the pilot house and, fighting against his rapidly waning strength, took over the helm, established communication with the engine room and carried on valiantly until relief could be obtained.