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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Master Gunnery Sergeant John Dominic Barto, III, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Logistics Chief and Supply Officer, Logistics Division, Marine Corps Reserve Support Command, Kansas City, Missouri, from 18 July 1991 to 31 December 1996. During this period, Master Gunnery Sergeant Barto performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Through his technical expertise, competence and enthusiasm, he was instrumental in spearheading the relocation of 250 Marine and civilian employees to a $10 million facility. As Supply Officer, he expertly managed a $9 million account, providing unparalleled quality supply support to over 100 mobilization and recruiting sites and 65,000 members of the IRR located throughout CONUS and Okinawa. As Command Sergeant Major for an eight month period, his motivational leadership, wisdom and ability to teach and lead by example were an inspiration to the Marines of this Command. Consistently demonstrating a work ethic that set the standard for others to emulate, he was the cornerstone of trust-worthiness and loyalty. Master Gunnery Sergeant Barto’s exemplary performance and selfless devotion to duty were the hallmark of a distinguished career, spanning over 25 years, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Action Date:

    June 16, 1979

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Staff Sergeant John Dominic Barto, III, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while serving at Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany, Georgia on 16 June 1979. In a liberty status at Crystal Lake in Douglas, Georgia, Staff Sergeant Barto was resting on a floating platform far out in the lake when he heard frantic cries from shore which indicated that a swimmer was in serious trouble in deep water. Without hesitation, he dove from the platform, swam to the area where the youth had last been seen, and made repeated dives beneath the murky surface to search for him. Fully aware of the personal dangers involved and with complete disregard for his own safety, Staff Sergeant Barto continued his arduous search. Though nearing exhaustion himself and with time running out on the possibility of effecting a successful rescue, he kept at the task until he found the unconscious young man and pulled him to shore. Staff Sergeant Barto initiated and continued to apply mouth-to-mouth resuscitation for approximately ten minutes until the victim began breathing on his own. Staff Sergeant Barto’s prompt and courageous actions in this emergency situation undoubtedly saved the life of a fellow human being. By his exceptional initiative, endurance, and presence of mind, Staff Sergeant Barto reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.