Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: July 10, 2007
- Invested on: October 12, 2007
Rank: Master Warrant Officer
Master Warrant Officer Barnes was deployed as company sergeant major of Charles Company, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan, from August 2006 to February 2007. His exceptional leadership and composure under enemy fire directly contributed to his company’s success under the extreme adversity of intense combat operations and significant casualties. Severely injured during Operation MEDUSA, he insisted on returning to the front lines. Master Warrant Officer Barnes’ unwavering sense of duty was instrumental to his company’s cohesion and effectiveness during the mission.
