Barney was in the Marines. His Silver Star citation reads:
"The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Barney D. Ross (MCSN: 386521), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Eighth Marines, Reinforced, during an engagement with enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 18 to 20 November 1942. When his patrol temporarily withdrew to the Matanikau River, leaving three seriously wounded Marines behind, Private First Class Ross with two comrades voluntarily remained to protect these men. Under continual fire of the enemy, he assisted on the following night in dragging the injured and helpless men to comparative safety. Trapped approximately 400 yards in front of the Army's main line of defense, Private First Class Ross and his companions cared for the injured Marines until a rescue party arrived on the morning of the 20th. His great personal courage and sincere devotion to his comrades were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.".
