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About this event

GUEST SPEAKER

Head of Defense Policy, Joby Aviation

Nonresident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council

Adjunct Professor, U.S. Naval War College

Colonel (Ret.) John “Buss” Barranco’s career spans more than three decades of service, from the cockpit of a Marine attack helicopter to command and senior leadership roles shaping the future of Marine aviation and national defense.

A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Col. Barranco served as a Marine aviator and Super Cobra instructor pilot. He was deployed aboard USS Peleliu with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit when the September 11 attacks occurred and took part in the initial Marine action in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He returned to support Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan two more times after his three deployments supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, for a total of six combat tours.

Over the course of his career, Col. Barranco commanded Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 and the Expeditionary Warfare Training Group, Atlantic, and held senior assignments at U.S. Southern Command and Headquarters Marine Corps, including leadership roles overseeing aviation programs, requirements, plans, policy, and budgets.

Today, Col. Barranco brings that operational and leadership experience to the intersection of defense, technology, strategy, and education. His military decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, two Legions of Merit, a Bronze Star, and multiple Air Medals. This rare combination of combat experience, command leadership, and headquarters-level management offers a distinctive perspective on what it means to lead and serve.

About the U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Breakfast

This event celebrates the U.S. Marine Corps Birthday on November 10th and honors the memory of LT William S. Bush, the first U.S. Marine Corps officer to die in the War of 1812. During USS Constitution’s battle with HMS Guerriere the ships exchanged cannon fire until they collided and their rigging became entangled. LT Bush raced to lead his men on board Guerriere, but as he turned to ask Captain Isaac Hull, “Shall I board her?,” he was shot down by the British. Two centuries later, Constitution and the U.S. Marine Corps continue their honorable service to our country. The USS Constitution Museum serves as the memory and educational voice of ‘Old Ironsides’ and ensures that her stories, including those of the U.S. Marine Corps and LT Bush, are preserved and shared with future generations.

Supported by the Colonel Drew Ley Fund

This event is supported by the Colonel Drew Ley Fund. The Fund is dedicated to the memory of Life Trustee Colonel Andrew “Drew” J. Ley, USMCR (Ret.). To honor Drew, the Fund supports continued Marine Corps activities at the Museum.

Carol Searle, in memory of Col. Andrew J. Ley, USMCR (Ret.)

G. West Saltonstall

CAPT Jeff Draeger, USN (Ret.) and CDR Jen Whereatt, USN (Ret.)