POULSBO — Russell Barker of Poulsbo is retiring after 24 years with the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service.

Barker was commended by Director of Investigative Service Michael Berkow  for “outstanding achievement in the performance of duty from Decem-ber 2003 to June 2013, while serving as the special agent-in-charge for the Northwest Region.”

Barker oversaw hundreds of complex and highly sensitive investigations into felony violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and maritime statutes. He was responsible for ensuring each case met the highest standards of military justice and federal law enforcement practices.

According to the Coast Guard, Barker’s innovative leadership and exceptional performance “significantly contributed to the efforts of the Coast Guard to fulfill its important obligations to the American people.”

Barker has also been recognized for his service to the community. He is a volunteer for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, coaches Poulsbo Babe Ruth Baseball League, and serves as league president. The league recognized Barker for his perseverance in bringing the Babe Ruth World Series to Kitsap County in 2012.

Barker and his wife became foster parents in 2010, and have provided a home for many children in the foster care program. He spent many holidays volunteering as Santa Claus for foster care events.

Barker was chosen to throw out the first pitch at the Tacoma Rainiers game on June 30.