Barney Barnum honored for heroic Vietnam War valor

During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the proposal to name a new school after Medal of Honor recipient Barney Barnum, highlighting his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. Barnum, who was just 22 years old and only 14 days into his deployment, led a counterattack that saved the lives of 130 Marines during a fierce battle against North Vietnamese forces, who outnumbered them ten to one.

The meeting featured a detailed recounting of Barnum's bravery, including his decision to strap on a radio and take command after the company commander was killed. His commitment to service continued even after receiving the Medal of Honor, as he expressed a desire to return to Vietnam and educate youth about core values such as courage and integrity.

Council members expressed unanimous support for naming the new school after Barnum, with Mr. Walsh suggesting that the names of other local figures, such as Chapman and Darcy, be honored in some capacity within the school. He emphasized the importance of remembering local history and the stories behind these names as part of the naming process.

The discussion also touched on the formation of a diverse committee to oversee the naming process, which would include members from both the Board of Education and the council, as well as public representation. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the naming honors the legacy of local heroes while also considering the historical significance of existing names in the community.

Overall, the meeting underscored a strong commitment to honoring military service and local history through thoughtful recognition in the community's educational institutions.