Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

Defence Platoon, Battalion Headquarters, 2nd Parachute Battalion, 1st Parachute Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

November 8th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

On 9 February 1946 replaced with an MWO.4

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

Defence Platoon, Battalion Headquarters, 2nd Parachute Battalion, 1st Parachute Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

February 9th, 1946

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

Recommendation:
For having distinguished himself in the fighting around Arnhem from September 17 to 25, by performing eminent acts of courage, tact and loyalty; frequently displaying extraordinary devotion to duty, initiative, calm and perseverance and in all respects having set a praiseworthy example to all during those glorious days.

"Lieutenant Barnett was in command of the Defence Platoon, HQ 1st Parachute Brigade which was placed under command of 2nd Parachute Battalion on the evening of 17th September at Arnhem, and was given the task of holding a sector to the East of Arnhem Bridge. For two days the Germans attacked with infantry and tanks in greatly superior numbers under cover of mortar and close range artillery fire. Each time they were repulsed with heavy losses.
Lieutenant Barnett led his platoon with great gallantry and skill. On three occasions he went out alone under heavy enemy fire to stalk enemy armoured vehicles and succeeded in destroying one tank and damaging another tank and an armoured car using a PIAT and Gammon grenades. On the third day he was ordered to withdraw the remnant of his force to a position West of the bridge which Lieutenant Barnett executed very skilfully. In the meantime the Germans had penetrated on to the bridge and were preparing it for demolition. Lieutenant Barnett led his platoon in a brilliant attack with the bayonet through extremely heavy fire, recaptured the bridge, killed all the enemy on it and removed the charges. The enemy immediately counter attacked with armoured and Self-Propelled guns wounding Lieutenant Barnett and half his force and forcing the remainder to withdraw leaving the wounded behind and with them Lieutenant Barnett who was severely wounded in the head.
Lieutenant Barnett displayed a high degree of personal courage and leadership throughout the engagement. His example was an encouragement to all."

Royal decree no.1

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)