Burton's career began in 1983, when he joined the U.S. Air Force, serving in the same unit as Chris Redfield, with whom he became good friends. After completing his service, he joined a certain police department's SWAT team, where his mentor in law enforcement was Enrico Marini. During that time, he and his loving wife, Kathy, had two daughters named Moira and Polly. Later, Barry joined the Special Tactics and Rescue Service (S.T.A.R.S.) in 1996, where he employed his vast knowledge of weaponry. Chris was eventually discharged from the force and began drifting. Barry met up with Chris and managed to talk him into joining S.T.A.R.S. His partnership with him would eventually become excellent, because thanks to his support, Barry was able to successfully complete several difficult cases. Because of this, he tolerated Chris's rebellious attitude and was unmoved by the complaints that Captain Albert Wesker and Chief Brian Irons had about him. When he came to Raccoon City to join S.T.A.R.S., in his private life, Barry frequented J's Bar and became friends with Gun Shop owner Robert Kendo. The two were close friends and often went fishing together in Stoneville. Due to their friendship, Barry commissioned Robert's brother, Joe, to modify most of S.T.A.R.S.' arsenal, including their side arm, the Samurai Edge. Barry had his specially modified to fire .40S&W caliber rounds.