For extraordinary heroism as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa Shima, April 6, 1945. Participating in the interception of a large force of Japanese aircraft, Lieutenant Junior Grade, Hardy attacked an enemy fighter plane, causing it to crash into the sea. Sighting two hostile dive bombers, he shot both down in quick succession. Centering his fire upon a third dive bomber, he skillfully exploded it in midair after which he set off in relentless pursuit of another Japanese dive bomber, which crashed into the sea, exploding with terrific force upon impact.