One way to pay tribute this Memorial Day is to spend time reading the stories of heroism in the Fallen in Service Medal of Honor Recipients, a list maintained by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. These are individuals who gave their lives in service and were awarded the nation’s highest military honor. 

Here’s one: Lance Corporal Jedh Colby Barker, awarded for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyone the call of duty while serving as a machine gunner with Company F. 

In September 1967, Company F was fighting near Con Thein in Vietnam when during a reconnaissance opertion L/Cpl. Barker's squad was suddenly hit by enemy sniper fire.

The squad immediately deployed to a combat formation and advanced to a strongly fortified enemy position, when it was again struck by small-arms and automatic-weapons fire, sustaining numerous casualties. Although wounded by the initial burst of fire L/Cpl. Barker boldly remained in the open, delivering a devastating volume of accurate fire on the numerically superior force. The enemy was intent upon annihilating the small marine force and, realizing that L/Cpl. Barker was a threat to their position, directed a preponderance of their fire on his position. He was again wounded, this time in the right hand, which prevented him from operating his vitally needed machine gun. 

Suddenly and without warning, an enemy grenade landed in the midst of the few surviving marines. Unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his personal safety, L/Cpl. Barker threw himself upon the deadly grenade, absorbing with his body the full and tremendous force of the explosion. In a final act of bravery, he crawled to the side of a wounded comrade and administered first aid before succumbing to his grievous wounds.

His bold initiative, intrepid fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of almost certain death undoubtedly saved his comrades from further injury or possible death and reflect great credit upon himself, the Marine Corps, and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

This Memorial Day, may we each take time to remember the Jedh Colby Barkers of the world. Let us say their names, read their stories, and live our lives in a way that honors their sacrifice.  

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Fallen in Service Medal of Honor Recipients