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The USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. arrives at the Black Falcon Pier on March 13, 2026 for a scheduled port visit.
U.S. Marine Corps Col. (Ret.) Harvey C. Barnum Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient, sits on the bridge of the future USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124) during sea trials in July 2025. The ship is named in honor of Barnum, who received the Medal of Honor for valor during the Vietnam War.
Marine Corps Cpl. Patrick Iacunato and 1st Lt. Harvey C. “Barney” Barnum Jr. pose for a photo while serving in Vietnam.
Episode 3247 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the naming of a Navy destroyer to honor Marine COL Harvey Curtiss Barnum Jr. The featured story is titled: US Naval ship named after Cheshire native to be commissioned. It appeared on the New England Public Media website and was submitted by Jennifer Ahrens.
Ahrens reported that the story of Harvey Curtiss Barnum Jr. is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary character, humility, and enduring legacy of Vietnam veterans. A retired U.S. Marine Corps colonel and recipient of the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions on December 18, 1965, Barnum embodies the courage displayed by so many who served during the Vietnam War. Despite his individual recognition, Barnum consistently redirects praise toward the Marines he served alongside, reflecting the deep sense of brotherhood that defines Vietnam veterans.
When Barnum learned that an USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. would be named in his honor, he was overwhelmed—not with pride for himself, but with emotion for the countless comrades who shared in the संघर्ष and sacrifice. His actions since retirement further highlight the greatness of his generation, as he continues to visit wounded service members at Walter Reed, offering encouragement drawn from a lifetime of service.
Barnum’s personal gesture of thanking every shipbuilder involved in constructing the destroyer speaks volumes about his humility and respect for others. Even as the ship’s commissioning approaches after years of delays, he insists the honor belongs to the team—not the individual.
This mindset captures what makes Vietnam veterans truly great. They carried immense burdens, faced unimaginable challenges, and returned home with quiet dignity. Barnum’s closing reflection—“I hope I haven’t done it yet”—reveals a lifelong commitment to service. It is this selflessness, resilience, and unwavering dedication that defines the greatness of all Vietnam veterans.
Listen to Episode 3247 and discover more about the naming of a Navy destroyer to honor Marine COL Harvey Curtiss Barnum Jr.
