There are few readily available records of Barrett's service, with the exception of his leadership in the Battle of Palmito Ranch. Colonel Barrett received command of detachments from the 62nd U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment, 2nd Texas Cavalry Regiment, and 34th Indiana Volunteer Infantry, at Brazos Santiago, Texas. After launching an expedition to attack enemy outposts, he was compelled to reinforce his attack. However, he eventually had to order his men to withdraw.
