Private Richard A Barton

Private Richard 'Dick' Andrew Barton, was from Barnstaple, Devon, and served in C Company of 2 PARA.

He was shot and killed while driving a Land Rover on night patrol in Andersonstown, West Belfast. The vehicle was ambushed by several gunmen and witnesses said Pte Barton accelerated towards gunmen to provide cover for colleagues.

Pte Barton died on 14 July 1971, aged 24 years.

Pegasus Journal October 1970.

Obituary

Pte Richard Andrew Barton

At approximately 1 a.m. on 14th July, 1971, a Land Rover patrol of C (Patrol) Company, 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, was ambushed in the Andersonstown district of Belfast. The vehicle was struck: by several bullets one of which hit Private Richard. Barton in the back, wounding him fatally. He died driving the vehicle clear, turning side-on to the gunmen thus enabling his patrol to debus with some protection.

Dickie Barton joined the Regiment as a recruit in 1966 before being posted to the 2nd Battalion. He served with the Battalion in Bahrain, Radfan, Hong Kong, Anguilla and was in Ulster for the second time.

He was known to the Battalion as the quiet enthusiast who devoted much time and energy to such ambitious pursuits as rock climbing and canoeing.

His ever present selflessness and thoughtfulness for others were evident in his last act. He will be missed by all those who knew him.