Sgt. Michael James Barra

Sgt. Michael James Barra, 18, died February 20, 1951 while a prisoner of war in Korea. He was born in Ithaca, NY April 5, 1932 to Lena (Cinotti) and Nicholas Barra. He graduated from Immaculate Conception School (Class of 1945) and Ithaca High School (Class of 1949). While at IHS, he was a member of Student Council all four years and treasurer his third year; captain of the bowling team; assistant manager of varsity basketball and a member of the Dramatic Club.


After high school he enlisted in the United States Army for three years leaving Ithaca September 2, 1949. He had basic training at Ft. Dix, NJ and served at Ft. Lewis, Washington before leaving for Korea in August 1950. He fought with Company C, 2nd Engineer Combat Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division.


In early January 1951, Sgt. Barra was reported missing in action as of December 1. His promotion from corporal to sergeant was announced in July 1953.
In September 1953, Sgt. Barra's name appeared on the list of men still missing in Korea after reported imprisonment. His remains were recovered on October 23, 2014.


Sgt. Barra was awarded the Prisoner of War Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, United Nations Service Medal and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.


Survivors include his sister Sue B. (Arthur) Shanahan of Ithaca; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

Since Michael's death, the following family members have passed away; his sisters: Phyllis M. Isch 1995 (Irving 1997); Mary B. DeLong 1997 (Ralph 1987); Antoinette N. Sellers 1997; and one brother, Nichoas J. Barra 2012 (M. Leone 1994). Half siblings: Philomena George (Dominic); Joseph Barra (Frances); Louis Barra (Rose); Victoria Noce (John); Emily Wruble (Edward). Nieces: Sandra M. Bell 1995 (James); Deborah M. DeLong 1951; Deborah A. Sellers 2008 and nephew Grant R. DeLong 2003 (Jude).


Sgt. Barra's remains are being returned to Ithaca for A Mass of the Resurrection which will be celebrated by Rev. Jeffrey S. Tunnicliff on Saturday, November 22, 2014 at 10 am at the Immaculate Conception Church. Interment, with full military honors, will immediately follow at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Bangs Funeral Home.