Robert O. Bare

Robert Osborne Bare (June 18, 1901 – September 30, 1980) was a decorated officer of the United States Marine Corps, who reached the rank of Lieutenant General. He is most noted for his work as Chief of staff of 1st Marine Division during World War II and later as Assistant Division Commander of the same unit during Korean War.

World War II
At the outbreak of the World War II, Bare served at the Marine Barracks Quantico, Virginia and remained there until October 1942, when he was transferred to San Diego, California as Operations officer (G-3) of the Amphibious Corps (later I Marine Amphibious Corps) under Major general Clayton Barney Vogel. He sailed almost immediately for South Pacific and spent next eight months at Nouméa, New Caledonia.

Another important assignment came in June 1943, when Bare was transferred to London, United Kingdom and assigned to the staff of Naval Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Naval Expeditionary Force, Admiral Bertram Ramsay. He participated in the planning of the Invasion of Normandy and later observed the British Assault Force "J", attacking germans forces near Courseulles-sur-Mer. Bare compiled the notes and sketches of his observations and incorporated these intelligence informations into his report. He was later decorated with Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" for his service in this capacity.

Colonel Bare was transferred back to the Pacific theater in October 1944 and assigned to the staff of 1st Marine Division. He participated in the final phase of the Palau Islands Campaign and succeeded Colonel John T. Selden as Division Chief of staff at the beginning of November 1944. Bare was appointed to this capacity following the Battle of Peleliu, where 1st Division suffered heavy casualties. New Division commanding general, Pedro del Valle, tasked Colonel Bare with the supervision of the re-equipping and training, which effected a virtual reorganization of the division.

Following the five months of training, 1st Marine Division participated in the Battle of Okinawa at the beginning of April 1945. Bare distinguished himself again and was decorated with Legion of Merit with Combat "V" for his merits during the training of the division and for his service during the battle.

Decorations
Here is the ribbon bar of Lieutenant General Robert O. Bare: