The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James M. Hardie (ASN: 15075050), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 9 July 1943, northwest of ****, Sicily. Private First Class Hardie, together with seven other men, manned two anti-tank guns which had previously been captured from the enemy. The seven men and Private Hardie knocked out an *** “tankette” while they were exposed to heavy enemy machine gun fire. This “tankette” was loading an estimated enemy battalion in the approach march. These men had no previous experience in the operation of the anti-tank guns. By their action the enemy battalion became disorganized and withdrew. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.