Robert A. Barker

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Robert A. Barker (850052), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a member of a Rifle Company of the Third Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Marianas Islands, 25 July 1944. When his company was held up by point-blank fire from a partially concealed enemy tank, Private First Class Barker unhesitatingly crawled through devastating machine-gun, mortar and sniper fire to a forward position and, although his first attempt to destroy the hostile tank failed, tenaciously maintained his perilous station and fired a second shot from his rocket launcher which put the vehicle out of action. Returning to his lines following the accomplishment of his voluntary mission, he was killed by a sniper. Private First Class Barker’s splendid initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and unselfish devotion to duty under extremely hazardous conditions contributed materially to the successful advance of his company and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 004215 (January 4, 1945)