John William Barker

John William Barker (December 25, 1872 – May 14, 1924) was a career officer in the United States Army. A veteran of the American Indian Wars, Spanish–American War, Philippine–American War, World War I, he served from 1894 to 1920. Barker attained the rank of brigadier general, and was a recipient of two Silver Stars, the French Legion of Honor (Officer), and the French Croix de guerre.

Early life John W. Barker was born in Syracuse, New York on December 25, 1872, the son of Frederick William Barker and Adelaide (King) Barker. He was raised and educated in Syracuse, and graduated from Syracuse High School in 1889. He began attendance in 1890, graduated in 1894 ranked 49th of 54, and received his commission as a second lieutenant of Infantry.

Early career Barker was commissioned in the 9th Infantry Regiment, and was on post-graduation leave when he learned that his regiment was en route from Madison Barracks in Sackets Harbor, New York to Chicago to take part in the federal government's response to the Pullman Strike. Barker contracted yellow fever and returned to the United States to convalesce, after which he performed temporary recruiting duty in Norfolk, Virginia.

Continued career After serving as commander of Company F, 3rd Infantry during the Philippine–American War, Barker spent several years at Fort Thomas, Kentucky, then served at Fort William H. Seward, Alaska, and Fort Lewis, Washington. From 1906 to 1908, he served at Fort Lawton, Washington. He attended the Army Service Schools at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas from August 1908 to June 1911; he was an honor graduate from the School of the Line in 1909 and graduated from the Army Staff College in 1910. From January to May 1918, Barker commanded the 165th Infantry Regiment, and led it during numerous battles against the Germans.

In June 1918, Barker returned to the United States, where he served in the office of the Adjutant General until his retirement. In October 1918, he was promoted to temporary brigadier general.

In March 1919, with the war now over due to the armistice with Germany, Barker reverted to his permanent rank of lieutenant colonel. He retired for disability in June 1920 and was advanced to colonel on the retired list in July 1920.

Awards Barker earned a Citation Star in both Cuba and the Philippines, which were converted to the Silver Star when the new award was created in 1932. For his World War I service, Barker was a recipient of the French Legion of Honor (Officer) and Croix de guerre.

Death and legacy Barker died in New York City on May 14, 1924. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. In 1930, the U.S. Congress passed legislation allowing the general officers of World War I to retire at their highest rank, and Barker's grade of brigadier general was posthumously restored.