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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant George W. Barnett (MCSN: 0-27387), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Bismarck Archipelago Area from 26 April 1945 to 16 May 1945. First Lieutenant Barnett completed twenty flights in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred and on one or more of these missions such enemy opposition was encountered. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    Marine Observation Squadron

    Action Date:

    January 13, 1953
    Commanding General 1st Marine Division: Serial 19404 (June 8, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain George W. Barnett (MCSN: 0-27387), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Observation Squadron on 13 January 1953. Serving as a helicopter pilot, Captain Barnett displayed outstanding courage, professional skill and devotion to duty. Although faced with the extremely hazardous conditions of darkness and haze, he courageously volunteered to evacuate two critically wounded Marines from a forward aid station. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he expertly maneuvered his aircraft into the dangerous approach and gained the landing strip safely. The two emergency evacuation patients were hurriedly loaded onto the helicopter and under the same hazardous conditions, he courageously flew them to a rear area medical aid station for hasty treatment to be administered to the two injured Marines. Captain Barnett’s alertness, efficient action and outstanding devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.