The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel George E. Hardy, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an AC-119K aircraft Commander near Tchepone, Laos on 23 November 1970. On that date, Colonel Hardy displayed extraordinary knowledge and outstanding airmanship under extremely hazardous conditions which resulted in several hostile targets being destroyed. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Hardy reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.