Soldier killed by IED device identified

Fort Campbell, KY — The Department of Defense today released the name of a 101st Airborne Division Soldier who died June 7th when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in the Dangam district, Kunar province, Afghanistan.

1st Sgt. Robert N. Barton II, 35, of Roxie, MS, was an infantryman who entered the Army in October 1993 and arrived at Fort Campbell in June 2005.

His awards and decorations include: Bronze Star Medal (2 awards); Meritorious Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal (3 awards); Army Achievement Medal (3 awards); Meritorious Unit Commendation; Army Superior Unit Award (2 awards); Army Good Conduct Medal (5 awards); National Defense Service Medal (2 awards); Iraq Campaign Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Armed Forces Service Medal (2 awards); Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon (level 3); Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Ribbon (3 awards); NATO Medal; Drill Sergeant Identification Badge; Ranger Tab; Combat Infantry Badge; Expert Infantry Badge; Pathfinder Badge; Air Assault badge and Weapons Qualification: M4-(expert).

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Barton of Hopkinsville, KY; mother, Rebecca A. Coleman of New Haven, WV; and father, Robert N. Barton of OH.

Four other Soldiers killed in the blast were identified by the Department of Defense earlier this month.

They were: Sgt. Joshua A. Lukeala, 23, of Yigo, Guam; Spc. Matthew R. Catlett, 23, of Houston, TX; Spc. Charles S. Jirtle, 29, of Lawton, OK, and Spc. Blaine E. Redding, 22, of Plattsmouth, NE.