Marine 1st Lt. Harvey “Barney” Barnum displayed incredible bravery during an ambush in Vietnam that resulted in the loss of his radio operator and commander. Despite the chaos, Barnum took charge of the rifle company he had just joined, calling for artillery support and leading a courageous counterattack. His actions saved lives and exemplified the spirit of the Marine Corps.
Now, at 83 years old, Barnum had the honor of witnessing his wife christen the future U.S. Navy destroyer named after him, the Harvey C. Barnum Jr. The ceremony took place at Bath Iron Works, the Navy shipbuilder in Maine, and was attended by notable dignitaries, including Maine’s governor and senators, as well as Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro.
Barnum expressed his gratitude and disbelief at having a warship named after him, joking that he had never been speechless before. His modesty, generosity, and dedication to his fellow Marines were celebrated by those in attendance.
Gen. Eric Smith, the acting Marine Corps commandant, spoke highly of Barnum, describing him as an “icon, a legend, a Marine.” Despite facing fear and uncertainty during the Vietnam War, Barnum led by example and inspired those around him.
The ceremony was a profound moment for Barnum, who reflected on his harrowing experience during Operation Harvest Moon on December 18, 1965. Outnumbered and caught off guard, Barnum’s unit found themselves separated from the larger battalion. As the highest-ranking officer on the ground, he rallied his fellow Marines, brandishing a .45-caliber handgun and leading a fierce counterattack.
Barnum continued to serve in Vietnam, becoming the first Medal of Honor recipient from the conflict to return for another tour. He later retired from the Marine Corps as a colonel after nearly thirty years of service. Barnum went on to hold various positions, including principal director of drug enforcement policy for the secretary of defense.
The event was a family affair for Barnum, with his wife Martha Hill serving as the ship’s sponsor. Despite being in a wheelchair due to a stroke, Martha joined the ceremony alongside their daughter, granddaughters, and great-granddaughter.
The Harvey C. Barnum Jr. is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, weighing 9,500 tons. Equipped to combat submarines, aircraft, missiles, and other warships, it is a testament to Barnum’s legacy of strength and bravery. As the ship prepares for delivery to the Navy, the christening ceremony immortalizes the sacrifices and heroism of Harvey “Barney” Barnum.
