Media Arts and Science student dons army fatigues in service to nation
April 25, 2008
William F. (Freddy) Barnes is hardly your typical Media Arts and Science (MAS) student at IUPUI. While his fellow undergrads are busy with finals and Facebook, Freddy busies himself preparing for another escort mission along the dangerous roadways of Iraq. Barnes is an active-duty sergeant with the Indiana Army National Guard, currently serving in an undisclosed location in Iraq.
“We provide security to local and foreign national truck drivers who move goods across the country,” explained Sgt. Barnes. “As a truck commander, my primary responsibility is the safety of my team and those who we are escorting. I typically have two or three individuals that work inside our gun truck – a driver and a gunner.”
Barnes, age 24 and single, was born in Los Angeles, CA, and moved to Indiana in 1991. Following the September 11th terrorists attacks, the Kokomo High School graduate (2002) signed on with the Indiana National Guard.
“I joined the military primarily to pay my way through college,” said Barnes. “At first it was a way to make money, nothing more. But during my first deployment I quickly realized there was more to my service – an opportunity to serve my country, and to develop personally in preparation for life’s challenges.”
While deployed in Ft. Wayne for Operation Noble Eagle at the 122nd Air Force Base, Barnes learned of the IU School of Informatics Media Arts and Science Program. In short order, Freddy relocated to Indianapolis and enrolled at IUPUI.
“I wanted to work with computers and, in turn, make them work for me by distributing digital information,” said Barnes, who is a senior undergrad. “At that early stage I didn't know the various computing applications that could do that sort of thing. The MAS Program is teaching me ways to put my creativity into practical use.”
Barnes greatly values service to others, and he particularly enjoys talking about technology and digital communication.
“If you ask any of my friends, peers, and family, they’ll tell you I give them an earful about technology and what it can do for people. Mostly I talk about Apple computers and how they can help you communicate and simplify your life,” said Barnes.
Freddy’s life is hardly simple while on active duty in Iraq. The missions there are hot and dangerous, and a long, long way from home. Still, he counts it a privilege to serve.
“I want to thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to serve and protect this nation, and for His protecting us over here,” said Barnes.
He also credits his parents, Fred and Cathy Barnes, and girlfriend, Keila Robinson for their unwavering support – and for a similar uplifting by his fellow Hoosiers.
“I want to say thanks for the support of the thousands of troops who are here representing and serving Indiana and our country,” wrote Barnes in a recent email message. “While there may be disagreement about why we are here, we are here, putting it on the line at great sacrifice to us and our families.”
Sgt. Barnes says he’s gained “a lifetime of experience” from his time in the military, and is anxious to complete his education at the School of Informatics.
“IUPUI has helped me in many ways to prepare myself for the workplace. I want to thank the faculty and staff – especially my academic advisor, Sheila Morris-Watson – for all their support,” says Barnes.
You may send a word of greeting and encouragement via email to Sgt. Barnes at f_barnes@mac.com.
