2026 Friendship Festival Parade Grand Marshal
Barry Baron
The Village of Bourbonnais is proud to recognize Barry Baron as the 2026 Friendship Festival Parade Grand Marshal.
Born and raised in Kankakee County, Barry graduated from Bradley-Bourbonnais High School in 1967, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. As an Airborne Infantryman with the 9th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War, Barry demonstrated extraordinary courage, leadership, and selflessness while serving on the front lines in defense of our nation.
Among his many military honors are the Silver Star, the nation's third-highest military decoration for valor in combat, awarded for acts of exceptional heroism while facing enemy forces. He also received the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement, the Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat, the Air Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Jump Wings, and numerous other commendations recognizing his bravery, sacrifice, and dedicated service. These honors tell the story of a young man who willingly put himself in harm's way to protect the freedoms we enjoy today and who paid a personal price in service to his country.
After being wounded in combat on February 26, 1969, Barry spent ten months recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center before medically retiring from the Army in January 1970. His resilience and determination during this challenging chapter of his life would become hallmarks of the decades of service that followed.
Barry married his lovely wife Janine Gagnon, on June 6, 1970. Together they built a loving family, raising three daughters—Cheri, Lesley, and Brooke—and welcoming six cherished grandchildren.
Determined to continue serving others, Barry pursued higher education, earning an Associate Degree from Kankakee Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Illinois. During his college years, he participated in wheelchair football and basketball and earned a varsity "I" letter. He later helped establish the Kankakee Kruisers wheelchair basketball team, creating opportunities for others and serving as an inspiration through his perseverance and leadership.
Barry's commitment to public service continued throughout his professional career. He spent 19 years as Adjutant at the Illinois Veterans' Home in Manteno, helping care for veterans who served our nation during wartime. He also dedicated many years to local government, serving as Village of Bourbonnais Treasurer for 5 years and Village Trustee for fourteen years, and also served as a member of the Kankakee County Board. Through each role, he remained committed to improving the lives of others and strengthening the community he calls home.
Barry's life is a remarkable example of courage, sacrifice, perseverance, and service. From his heroic actions on the battlefield to his lifelong commitment to veterans, public service, and community leadership, he has dedicated himself to something greater than himself. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the values that define both our nation and our community.
