Jun 1943
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Ray Wehnes Barker (December 10, 1889 – June 28, 1974) was a Major General of the Allied Forces, and served in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. General Barker was a key member of the combined United States-British group, which became known as COSSAC (Chief of Staff to Supreme Allied Commander). This group planned the Battle of Normandy, codenamed "Operation Overlord", also known as D-Day, which liberated Occupied France. He served as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the European Theater from 1943–1944, and Deputy Chief of Staff for Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force.
Ray Barker was born in New York City and enlisted in the Army first serving with the 15th Cavalry from 1910 to 1913. He was commissioned as an officer in the Cavalry in 1913, later participating in the Punitive Expedition into Mexico (Poncho Villa Expedition) from 1916 to 1917. Thereafter, he transferred to the field artillery and accompanied the 13th Field...
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General Dwight Eisenhower speaking to airborne troops, England, United Kingdom, 5 Jun 1944; Major General Ray Barker in background
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From left to right starting with the top row: Army Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Soldier's Heroism Medal, Bronze Star, Mexican Service Medal, World War I Victory Medal with four battle clasps, WWI Army of Occupation of Germany Medal, American Defense Service medal, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with four service stars, World War II Victory Medal, WWII Army of Occupation Medal
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