William MORGAN Hardman

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to William Morgan Hardman (5169376/625171/1355), Commander, U.S. Navy.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star Medal to William Morgan Hardman (5169376/625171/1355), Commander, U.S. Navy.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William Morgan Hardman (5169376/625171/1355), Commander [then Lieutenant Commander], U.S. Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 21 August 1967, as a Naval Flight Officer in Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED NINETY-SIX (VA-196), embarked from the U.S.S. CONSTELLATION (CVA-64). Demonstrating outstanding leadership and planning ability, Commander Hardman participated in a coordinated air-wing attack against Duc Noi Rail Yard, situated five miles north of Hanoi, North Vietnam. As pathfinder navigator, he led his force through cloud-shrouded mountainous terrain to the target area. Encountering intense anti-aircraft, artillery, and missile fire about fifteen miles from the target, Commander Hardman assisted his pilot in commencing the bombing run, well aware that his aircraft was being tracked by a Surface-to-Air missile. Seconds later, his aircraft received a direct hit and was soon engulfed in flames. After the bombs were released, Commander Hardman ejected from the severely damaged aircraft. The remaining strike aircraft dived through the heavy enemy fire to deliver extremely accurate and highly devastating attacks on the target. By his indomitable leadership and courage, Commander Hardman contributed materially to the major damage inflicted on this vital North Vietnamese transportation facility. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.