CAPT Barry Parker graduated from Valdosta State University and received his commission in 1996 through the Officer Candidate School program.
His first tour of duty was aboard USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD 6), where he served as Repair, Electrical, and Interior Communications Division Officer. Operational deployments included USS BONHOMME RICHARD’s maiden voyage to the western Pacific and the Arabian Gulf. In July 2000, CAPT Parker reported to USS WADSWORTH (FFG 9) as the Training Officer. Operational deployments included USS WADSWORTH’s final voyage to the Seventh Fleet area of operations in support of CARAT 2001.
In December 2004, CAPT Parker reported to USS FORREST SHERMAN (DDG 98) as the Operations Officer. He was integral to the planning and execution of USS FORREST SHERMAN’s Commissioning, Combat Systems Ship Qualification Trials, Final Contract Trials (INSURV), Initial Training Cycle, and Post Shakedown Availability. In July 2006, CAPT Parker reported to Destroyer Squadron TWO SIX as Combat Systems and Training Readiness Officer. Destroyer Squadron TWO SIX served as Sea Combat Commander for the HARRY S TRUMAN Strike Group.
In February 2008, CAPT Parker reported to USS BOXER (LHD 6) as the Navigator. USS BOXER deployed to the Gulf of Aden as flagship for Combined Task Force 151 in support of anti-piracy operations off the Horn of Africa. During this deployment, BOXER participated in the rescue of MV Maersk Alabama’s Captain Richard Phillips. In October of 2010, CAPT Parker reported to USS KLAKRING (FFG 42) as the Executive Officer. USS KLAKRING conducted Maritime Security Operations off the east coast of Africa throughout an AFRICOM deployment. Following deployment he assumed duties as Acting Commanding Officer during the ship’s decommissioning process.
Ashore CAPT Parker served as Training Systems and Communications Officer, Electronic Material Officer, and Training Support Department Head at the Center for Information Dominance in Pensacola, Florida. While assigned at the Center for Information Dominance, CAPT Parker earned his Master’s degree in Public Administration from Troy University. In August of 2009, CAPT Parker was selected to attend the College of Naval Command and Staff at the Naval War College (NWC). While assigned to NWC, he obtained a Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies, and Joint Professional Military Education Phase I certification. In February of 2013, CAPT Parker reported to the College of Naval Warfare at the Naval War College where he earned his Joint Professional Military Education Phase II certification. In May of 2014, CAPT Parker assumed duties as Commanding Officer of Navy Operational Support Center Orlando. In August of 2016, CAPT Parker reported to Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command and served as Director of Assessments, Director Warrior and Family Support Programs and N5 Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff. In August of 2018, CAPT Parker reported as Commanding Officer, Navy Operational Support Center Atlanta.
CAPT Parker reported to HQ USEUCOM in August of 2020 as Chief, ECJ1 Manpower and Reserve Manning Division, Navy Reserve Program Director, and Navy Reserve Executive Committee CCMD Resource Pillar Lead. He also filled a manning gap for six month as Chief, ECJ1 Readiness Division, responsible for contingency manning and theater personnel accountability.
CAPT Parker’s awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), Navy Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy Achievement Medal (three awards) and various unit and service awards.