Executive Director David Barton

Colonel (Ret.) David Barton became the sixth Executive Director of the National Guard Association of Mississippi on June 1, 2024. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from the University of Mississippi and a Master of Public Policy and Administration Degree from Mississippi State University. He is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Strategic Leadership program at Liberty University.

David began his public service career as a police officer with the Horn Lake Police Department, where he served for over three years. His public service journey continued with over 31 years in various leadership positions while on active duty with the Mississippi Army National Guard, including a combat tour in Iraq in 2005. His last assignment for the Mississippi Army National Guard was as Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel. He received numerous decorations and awards during his military career, including the Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit, multiple Meritorious Service Medals, and the Combat Action Badge.

Upon retiring as a Colonel from the military in 2018, he then served three years with the Mississippi Department of Human Services as Director of Internal Audit, Inspector General, and Deputy Executive Director of Administration. In January 2021, David was made the Deputy Commissioner / Chief of Staff at the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services, where he served until May 31, 2024. He has attended and led numerous leadership training programs and is a Certified Speaker, Coach, and Trainer with the John Maxwell Team.

David is a member of Pinelake Church and resides with his wife Jennifer in Brandon, MS