SSgt Michael B. Barnett currently serves as the Ceremonial Conductor in the Parris Island Marine Band. He has performed in this capacity since August 2023.
SSgt Barnett is a native of Templeton, CA. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in August 2011, and attended Recruit Training at Marine Corps San Diego, Marine Combat Training and then the Basic Musician’s Course at the Naval School of Music in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
In May 2012, LCpl Barnett reported for assignment as a Tuba Instrumentalist with the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band in Okinawa, Japan.
In May 2014, Cpl Barnett reported to Camp Pendleton, California for assignment with the 1st Marine Division Band. In September of 2014, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and assigned as a Small Ensemble Leader.
In June of 2017, Sgt Barnett reported for duty with the Marine Forces Pacific Band in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. In 2018, he was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant and served in the capacity of Small Ensemble Leader, Training Chief, and Platoon Sergeant. SSgt Barnett then attended the Unit Leader’s Course at the Naval School of Music from January to August 2020. Upon graduation, SSgt Barnett received orders and subsequently reported back to Okinawa, Japan for another tour with the III MEF Band. From October 2020 to July 2023, SSgt Barnett served as Small Ensemble and an Instrumentalist. In February of 2023, he was selected for the PMOS of Enlisted Conductor.
SSgt Barnett graduated from California State University Fresno in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree through Southern New Hampshire University.
SSgt Barnett’s awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2nd award), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2nd award), Good Conduct (3rd award), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Medal (4th award).