The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Hardy James Hutchinson (MCSN: 309578), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Mortar Section Leader in Company G, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 27 September 1950. During an attack by enemy forces, Staff Sergeant Hutchinson advanced through heavy hostile fire to personally direct and control the fire of his mortar squad. Occupying an exposed position in order to better observe the results of his fire, he was mortally wounded by enemy small arms fire. By his courageous actions, he materially aided his company in repulsing the enemy attack, in regaining fire superiority and successfully completing its assigned mission. His initiative, leadership and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Staff Sergeant Hutchinson and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.