Michael Barker (British Army officer) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Michael Barker
Born	15 October 1884 Wells, Somerset, England
Died	21 May 1960 (aged 75) Colchester, Essex, England
Allegiance	United Kingdom
Service/branch	British Army
Years of service	1903–1941
Rank	Lieutenant General
Service number	6187
Unit	East Surrey Regiment Lincolnshire Regiment York and Lancaster Regiment
Commands held	11th (Service) Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment 53rd Brigade 2nd Battalion, York and Lancaster Regiment British Forces in Palestine and Trans-Jordan I Corps Aldershot Command
Battles/wars	Second Boer War World War I Arab revolt in Palestine World War II
Awards	Companion of the Order of the Bath Distinguished Service Order & Bar Mentioned in dispatches (6)

Lieutenant General Michael George Henry Barker was a British Army officer. He was born on October 15, 1884, and passed away on May 21, 1960. He bravely served in both World War I and World War II. He is well-known for leading I Corps during the Battle of France in May 1940.

Early Life and Military Career

Michael Barker was born in Wells, Somerset, England. He began his military journey in 1902. He joined the 4th (Militia) Battalion of the East Surrey Regiment.

Serving in South Africa

He served in South Africa during the Second Boer War. This was a conflict that took place from 1899 to 1902. He returned home in October 1902.

Joining the Regular Army

In 1903, he joined the regular army. He became an officer in the Lincolnshire Regiment. He fought throughout World War I with this regiment.

World War I Achievements

During World War I, he showed great courage. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) in 1917. This award is given for outstanding service in battle. He finished the war as a lieutenant colonel.

Between the World Wars

After World War I, Michael Barker continued his military training. He attended the Staff College, Camberley. This college trains officers for important leadership roles.

Leading a Battalion

From 1927 to 1931, he commanded the 2nd Battalion, York and Lancaster Regiment. He was later promoted to brigadier. This is a high-ranking officer position.

Important Roles

In 1936, he became the Director of Recruiting and Organization at the War Office. This office manages the British Army. In 1939, he took command of British Forces in Palestine and Trans-Jordan. This was during the end of the 1936–1939 Arab revolt in Palestine.

World War II Service

Lieutenant General Michael Barker introduces Anthony Eden to army officers in Palestine, February 1940.

During World War II, Michael Barker led I Corps starting in April 1940. This was a large group of soldiers. He faced many challenges during the Battle of Dunkirk.

Challenges in Command

The situation during the battle was very difficult. He was later replaced by Major-General Harold Alexander. After this, his active combat service ended.

Later Role and Retirement

He then served as the head of Aldershot Command for a year. This command manages military training and operations in a specific area. He retired from the army later that year. Michael Barker passed away in 1960, at the age of 75, in Colchester, Essex.

Personal Life

Michael Barker married Barbara Maude Bentall in October 1914. They were married in Essex. They had a son named Michael John Eustace Barker.