Decorated veteran, hero of three wars turns 100 years old

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- A century of service and sacrifice was celebrated Saturday at the Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial, where family, friends and fellow veterans gathered to honor retired Major Robert Barto on his 100th birthday.

Barto, a decorated veteran who served in three wars, was recognized with a Quilt of Valor — an honor presented to service members who have dedicated their lives to the U.S. military.

“It was just the thing to do,” Barto said of his service. “I can’t imagine anything other than what happened.”

Barto began his military journey at just 15 years old, volunteering as a firefighter and mail carrier during World War II. He later joined the U.S. Marine Corps and, in 1945, was commended for bravery during the Battle of Iwo Jima for evacuating wounded Marines under heavy fire.

After being honorably discharged, Barto enlisted in the Army Air Corps, where he piloted cargo planes during the Korean and Vietnam wars.

“He’s never wanted attention for any of it,” said his daughter, Libby Barto. “He’s always said, ‘that’s just what we did.’”

Libby said her father only began opening up about his wartime experiences after the death of her mother. “We started asking him questions, and he began to share,” she said. “I became more interested in Iwo Jima — he was actually there.”

Another daughter, Marcie Lukasik, said she learned even more while planning her father’s 100th birthday celebration. “I found out so much more that I didn’t know growing up,” she said.

Barto was one of the first veterans to have a plaque placed at Mount Soledad, nearly 24 years ago. The memorial’s black granite is the same material used for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., said Neil O’Connell, executive director of the Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial.

“That’s important to us — we have a connection there,” O’Connell said.

Family members said they are proud of Barto’s lifelong service and humility.

“When you sign on the dotted line, you give part of yourself,” said grandson Cody Snyder. “He did that twice, during some of the most intense conflicts in history. That shows the selfless service he had.”

Granddaughter Katie Lukasik said her grandfather’s life is an inspiration. “Looking at everything he’s done, the family he’s created, and the love he’s shared — it’s really incredible.”

“I think that’s something to be proud of,” added grandson Tobin Snyder. “To have a grandfather who served his country.”

Surrounded by loved ones and honored for a lifetime of courage, Barto reflected on the journey that brought him there.

“I enjoyed my life,” he said with a smile.