General Robert H. Barrow enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1942, and was assigned as an assistant drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diago, before being commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1943. He served during World War II in occupied China, supporting guerrilla forces and earning the Bronze Star with Combat "V" for heroic action in the face of the enemy. During the Korean War he commanded Company A, 1st Battallion, 1st Marines, during the epic Inchon-Seoul campaign. Later, during the 1st Marine Division's historic retrograde from the Chosin Reservoir, he earned a Navy Cross for multiple actions near Koto-Ri. During 1968 and 1969 he commanded the 9th Marine Regiment in numerous combat actions in Vietnam including Operation Dewey Canyon, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross by the U.S. Army.

As a general officer he commanded Camp Smedley D. Butler in Okinawa, served as the Commanding General, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, and commanded Fleet Marine Forces Atlantic. In his most senior headquarters assignments, he served as the deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, and as the Assistant Commandant prior to be nominated as the 27th Commandant of the Marine Corps.

General Barrow was the first Commandant to serve a regular four-year tour as a full member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (1979 to 1983). He ensured the success of the Corps' transition to an all- volunteer force by raising education standards and focusing the Corps on retaining quality individuals through professional education. He was also instrumental in bringing positive changes to recruit training. General Barrow's talent, vision, and leadership positioned the Marine Corps to meet the challenges of the 21st Century.

Constructed 1941

Dedicated in honor of General Robert H. Barrow

13 December 2002

Marker is on Panama Street east of Santo Domingo Street, on the left when traveling east.

Courtesy hmdb.org

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