'During the attack on the Messines Ridge on the 7th June 1917, this N.C.O. set a fine example to the men of his platoon, showing utter disregard of danger. His platoon commander had joined the Company only on the night of the 6th June andSergt. Barnett proved himself invaluable to this officer, assisting him in every way. He encouraged his men and though twice knocked down by enemy shells, still carried on. Afterwards he was made acting C.S.M. and carried out those duties in a most admirable manner.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 16 August 1917

Regimental number	8/3181
Address	Wyndham
Marital status	Single
Next of kin	Mother, Mrs W Barnett, Wyndham, Southland
Rank on embarkation	Private
Enlistment status	Volunteer
Unit name	New Zealand Expeditionary Force, 8th Reinforcement, Otago Infantry Battalion
Embarkation details	Unit embarked from Lyttelton on board Willochra on 14 November 1915
Medals	Military Medal 'During the attack on the Messines Ridge on the 7th June 1917, this N.C.O. set a fine example to the men of his platoon, showing utter disregard of danger. His platoon commander had joined the Company only on the night of the 6th June andSergt. Barnett proved himself invaluable to this officer, assisting him in every way. He encouraged his men and though twice knocked down by enemy shells, still carried on. Afterwards he was made acting C.S.M. and carried out those duties in a most admirable manner.' Source: 'London Gazette' Date: 16 August 1917
Miscellaneous details	Nominal Roll Vol. 1: Otago Infantry Batln/Eighth