The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Uncas Billie Hardin (ASN: RA-14364515), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 18 May 1951, in the vicinity of Kunmul-gol, Korea. On that date Private Hardin was a member of the 81-mm. mortar platoon of his company which had the mission to hold and defend positions on a high hill. The mortar platoon was under intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire and ammunition was running low, when Private Hardin, heedless of his own safety, volunteered to bring up more ammunition. In so doing, he had to cross an open field which was under constant enemy fire. As he returned with a load of ammunition, Private Hardin was severely wounded. Determined to carry out his vital mission, he courageously proceeded on his way with the critically needed ammunition. As he neared his platoon positions, he was struck a second time by hostile fire and fell mortally wounded. His tenacious devotion to duty enabled his comrades to defeat the advancing enemy force. The gallantry and heroic self-sacrifice of Private Hardin reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.