WILLIAM R. BARKER, First Lieutenant, E. Co., 141st Infantry, 36th Division, U.S. Army. Awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action on 21-22 January 1944, near San Angelo, Italy. First Lieutenant Barker was ordered to direct amphibious operations in an attack across the Rapido River. Inpenetrable fog over the river required the boat teams to keep together to maintain contact. First Lt. Barker moved along the column to encourage his men over the difficult and hazardous route. Near the river heavy mortar and artillery barrages forced dispersion and two teams lost contact. As they attempted to rejoin the Company, an anti-personnel mine exploded blowing one man into an adjacent mine field nad wounding several others. Immediately First Lt. Barker went to this group, crawled through the perilous mine field, and carried out the wounded man. Reorganizing the men, he led them to rejoin the Company. En route another mine exploded, wounding First Lt. Barker and several more men. Disregarding his own wounds, he directed care for the casualties and led the remainder of the group through the mine field to the Company. Concealing his wounds he reconnoitered a safe route of advance and led the company to the crossing point. Exposing himself to intense enemy fire, he attempted four times to launch the clumsy assault boats down the steep and slippery banks into the swift, treacherous current. On the fifth attempt a boat was launched, but it struck a submerged object and sank. Hearing the cries of one man being carried downstream, Lt. Barker dropped to the ground and extended his rifle which the soldier grabbed. Another soldier attempting to aid in the rescue also plunged into the river. Hanging over the edge, Lt. Barker caught this man with his free hand. Weakened from the loss of blood and exhausted, he managed by sheer stamina to hold both men while bullets struck all around. His courageous leadership inspired his company to succeed in its approach march to the river.

Mr. Barker is a life member and resides in Massachusetts.