George Hardy - Tuskegee Airman - Sarasota, FL
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Lieutenant Colonel George Hardy, at age 95, is a motivational speaker and historical educator representing the World War II, African-American pilots, known as the Tuskegee Airmen.
For over 75 years, Lt. Col. Hardy has proven his worthiness. He is grateful for being given the opportunity to serve and fight for the United States of America. In his distinguished, more than 28-year military career, Hardy flew 136 combat missions in three wars: World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. On a weekly basis, Lt. Col. Hardy is invited to speak to veterans, reservists and ROTC cadets at military bases, Veteran of Foreign War and American Legion Posts and universities. He is invited to speak on major service holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day. Hardy is interviewed regularly by local, statewide and national newspapers and radio and television stations to discuss, promote and advocate for veteran issues. Lt. Col. Hardy is an active member and provides support to both the 19th Bombardment Group Association and the AC 119 Gunship Association and Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. In addition, he actively participates in the VFW organization in Florida and nationally. He counsels and provides guidance individually to veterans and their families and participates in memorial services at the National Cemeteries. |
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In January 2020, Lt. Col. Hardy helped a student develop a display for the Red Tail Squadron's P- 51 Mustang Exhibit. This award-winning display is scheduled to be at the July 2020 Air Venture Red Tail Exhibit in Dallas and will be on permanent display in the National Air Base Rise Above Red Tail Traveling Exhibit mobile theater.
In November 2019, Lt. Col. Hardy updated information for his Library of Congress Veterans History Project. Included in his personal narratives collection, is a spell binding, 47-minute, living history video of Hardy at age 83, where he provides details about his remarkable service as a Tuskegee Airman and the challenges he overcame.
On Jan. 18, 2019, Lt. Col. Hardy brought his inspirational WWII story to FAMU ROTC Cadets, veterans, and the community, where he received a standing ovation. This presentation led to a life story video project, Kings of Freedom," honoring Lt. Col. Hardy and his life lessons. Premiers are planned in Tallahassee at FSU, FAMU and TCC in 2020.
In October 2018, Lt. Col. Hardy participated as a panelist in the Punta Gorda, Florida, International Air Show featuring the Commemorative Air Forces Red Tail Rise above Exhibit which showcased a P-SlC Red Tail Mustang, like the one he flew in WWII.
CAF Red Tail Squadron's RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, Oshkosh, Wisconsin & Tallahassee
On July 28, 2018, Lt. Col George Hardy (93) and Col. (BG) Charles McGee (98), attended the EAA Air Venture 2018 at Wittman Regional airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. They gave children the history of the Tuskegee Airmen and how they overcame discrimination. He also participated with the CAF Red Tail Squadron's RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit in Tallahassee
Education and Training Accomplishments:
Professional or Employment History:
2008-Present: Tuskegee Airmen Motivational, Educational & Keynote Speaker 2008-Present: Tuskegee Airmen Red Tail Traveling Exhibit Panel member Tuskegee, AL Dayton, Ohio
2007: Congressional Gold Medal
1972-1989: Project Manager, General Telephone & Electronics (GTE) Corp. 1971-1971: IG Office, Air Force Systems Command, Andrews AFB
1970-1971: Detachment Cdr., 18th Special Operations Squadron, Udorn AFB, Thailand 1964-1970: Chief Engineer & Program Manager of DOD Overseas AUTOVON Program
1965: Promoted to Lt. Colonel
1963-1964: MS Degree in System Engineering-Reliability, Wright Patterson AFB
1961-1962: Commander, 4108th AEMS Squadron, 4108th Air Refueling Wing (KC-97 aircraft)
1960: Promoted to Major
1951-1961: Armament & Electronic Maintenance Squadrons, Strategic Air Command 1949-1951: 19th Bomb Group (B-29 aircraft) Korea War missions Guam & Okinawa
1950: Promoted to Captain
1948-1949: 301st Fighter Squadron 332nd Fighter Group (P-47 aircraft), Keesler AFB 1947-1948: New York University School of Engineering
1946-1947: Discharged from the US Army Air Force (Two-year break in service) 1945-1946: 99th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group (P-51 aircraft), Italy
1944: Graduated from Tuskegee Flight School & commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant 1943-1944: 320th College Training Detachment & Tuskegee Army Airfield for training
Advocacy on Behalf of Veterans:
LT. COL. George Hardy, at age 95, is a motivational speaker and historical educator representing the World War II, African-American pilots, known as the Tuskegee Airmen.
Guided by his strong faith in God and this country. Hardy has risen above many challenges. His remarkable military career has inspired tens of thousands of Americans and Floridians. His military history is included at the end of this application.
For over 75 years, Lt. Col. Hardy has proven his worthiness. He is grateful for being given the opportunity to serve and fight for the United States of America. In his distinguished, more than 28-year military career, Hardy flew 136 combat missions in three wars: World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
On a weekly basis, Lt. Col. Hardy is invited to speak to veterans, reservists and ROTC cadets at military bases. Veteran of Foreign War and American Legion Posts and universities. He is invited to speak on major service holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day. Hardy is interviewed regularly by local, statewide and national newspapers and radio and television stations to discuss, promote and advocate for veteran issues.
Lt. Col. Hardy is an active member and provides support to both the 19th Bombardment Group Association and the AC 119 Gunship Association and Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. In addition, he actively participates in the VFW organization in Florida and nationally. He counsels and provides guidance individually to veterans and their families and participates in memorial services at the National Cemeteries.
With a spirit of humility, forgiveness and humor, Lt. Col. George Hardy shares his military experiences of how he overcame many obstacles to achieve success. At numerous national and state events, Hardy tells his military story with respect and gratitude for our nation. He believes this country allowed him to reach his goal of becoming a pilot—rising above and beyond whomever and whatever tried to hold him back.
In 2007, Hardy was an honoree in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda when President George W. Bush awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to the Tuskegee Airmen. Bush said, "I thank you for the honor you have brought to our country, and the medal you are about to receive means that our country honors you." President Bush then saluted them, saying he wanted to offer this gesture to "help atone for all the unreturned salutes and unforgivable indignities they endured."
Civic Activities and Contributions:
Lt. Col. Hardy participates in many civic and volunteer activities, traveling on more than 15 or more trips a year. In 2016, at age 91, he described a typical, two-week travel itinerary, stating, "It started with a week at the Sun 'N' Fun Air Show in Lakeland, Florida, with four radio and two TV interviews. Then, there was an auditorium full of kids at Hunter College High School in New York. Last week, it was the Smoky Mountain Air Show in Knoxville. Thursday, I will be in New Orleans at the National World War II museum."
Awards and Honors:
At age 95, Lt. Col. George Hardy exemplifies what is best in Florida senior citizens and veterans. Hardy, in his very active retirement, represents Florida 24/7/365 as an exemplar of service and dedication. Although Hardy is often in the limelight, he prefers to be in the background.
In 1989, after both a distinguished, more than 28-year military career and an exemplary 17- years as project manager with General Telephone & Electronics, Hardy retired at age 64. The Hardy family fell in love with Florida and overwintered in Sarasota for almost 15 years.
In, 2003, Hardy became a permanent resident of Florida, making his home in Sarasota. For more than 30 years, Florida has been his adopted home base of operations, from which he continues to serve the greater good.
For three decades, Lt. Col. Hardy has made a significant contribution to Florida's civic, business and public service. He continuously volunteers his time—and his experience, strength, and hope. He travels throughout the state of Florida most of the year as an honored and respected motivational, educational and keynote speaker presenting Tuskegee Airmen history.
His message to Florida veterans and students of all races, both male and female—is that they can be pilots—and that anyone can rise above obstacles and soar to success. Hardy motivates and teaches them how to achieve and accomplish their best in life and shares the professional traits they need to succeed. Hardy inspires female students to do their best and encourages them to become pilots, by sharing stories about the WWII Women Air Force Service Pilots.
Lt. Col. Hardy is a highly-regarded panel member of the Commemorative Air Force - Red Tail Squadron - Rise Above traveling exhibit. Rise Above, dedicated to honoring the contribution of the Tuskegee Airmen, provides extensive educational resources for students, teachers, and youth leaders to help them learn and be inspired by these remarkable American trailblazers. The exhibit travels to many cities in every region of Florida. Hardy has participated in events in Tallahassee, Lakeland, Punta Gorda, Daytona Beach and Fort Lauderdale.
Hardy teaches as a volunteer at many Sarasota area schools and participates in the Adult Education program. Classroom on Wheels, a school bus-based traveling classroom for half-day field trips.
In Tallahassee, FAMU, FSU and TCC, are honoring Lt. Col. Hardy and his life lessons by premiering a special video of his life. The video. "Kings of Freedom," by Los Angeles film producer Julian Wilson shows the perseverance, strength and good will Lt. Col. Hardy has demonstrated during his military, corporate careers and during his retirement.
In January 2020, Lt. Col. Hardy participated in a project at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, helping a student develop a display for the Red Tail P-51 Mustang Exhibit. This award-winning display is scheduled to be at the July 2020 Air Venture Red Tail Exhibit in Dallas and will be on permanent display in the National Air Base Rise Above Red Tail Traveling Exhibition mobile theater. In addition, he was interviewed for a radio show and gave a motivational speech to students.
He also volunteers as a Food Bank member and serves as an usher with his church, St. Wilfred Episcopal Church of Sarasota.
For 30 years, in a very active retirement, Lt. Col. Hardy, has continuously served America, the US military and the State of Florida. He is an exemplar of all that is best in a veteran supporter and advocate and civic volunteer. Today, he travels tirelessly throughout the state and the nation, providing inspiration and motivation to veterans and civilians of all ages and races.
Lt. Col. Hardy has a had a distinguished military career. He was one of the first African American to fly in World War II, flying 21 (P-51) combat missions. In the Korean War, he flew 45 (B- 29) combat missions as a bomber co-pilot. In addition, he flew 70 (AC-119K Gunship) combat missions the Vietnam War.
Hardy's distinguished military career began in July 1943, when he enlisted in the Army Air Force. He was assigned to Aviation Cadet Training at Tuskegee Army Airfield, Alabama. Hardy graduated as a pilot and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in September 1944. He was the youngest in his graduating Flight Class of 32 Tuskegee Airmen.
In March 1945, after additional combat flight training at Walterboro AAF, South Carolina, Lt. Hardy was assigned to the 99th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group in Italy. There he flew 21 P-51 combat missions over Germany, which included strafing ground targets. Lt. Hardy returned to Tuskegee Army Airfield in August 1945 as an instructor and taught there until it closed in the summer of 1946. He was discharged from active duty in November 1946, which caused a two-year break in his service. He enrolled and studied in the New York University, School of Engineering from September 1947 to June 1948.
In June 1948, Hardy was recalled to active duty at Lockbourne Air Force Base, Columbus Ohio. He was assigned to the 301st Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Bomb Group. Shortly after arriving in the squadron, he was sent to study at the Airborne Electronics Maintenance Officer school at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi.
Starting in 1948, while he was at the school, USAF broke up Black units and integrated them into the total Air Force. Upon graduating in August 1949, he was assigned to the 19th Bomb Group (B-29 aircraft) on the island of Guam. In the 19th Bomb Group he was further assigned to the 28th Bomb Squadron, as the Airborne Electronics Maintenance Officer. As a pilot he also was able to check out in B-29 aircraft and was soon assigned as a copilot on a combat crew.
In June 1950, the Korean War began, and the 19th Bomb Group was transferred to Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. Hardy flew 45 combat missions over Korea as a copilot in B-29 aircraft. While with the 19th Bomb Group, he was promoted to Captain. During the 1950s, he served in positions of increasing responsibility in Armament and Electronics Maintenance Squadrons (AEMS) in the Strategic Air Command.
In August 1955 he entered the Undergraduate Engineering program at the USAF Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. In August 1957, he received a BS Degree in Electrical Engineering. In September 1957, he was assigned to the 3rd Armament and Electronics Maintenance Squadron in the 3rd Bomb Wing (B-57 aircraft), at Johnson Air Base in Japan. There, he served as Maintenance Supervisor for almost 3 years.
Hardy was promoted to the grade of Major in 1960. He also became qualified in flying jet aircraft. He provided maintenance to the B-36 aircraft which was the largest aircraft in the Air Force. In late 1960, he was transferred to Plattsburgh Air Force Base, New York, where he was assigned as the Squadron Commander of the 4108th AEMS of the 4108th Air Refueling Wing. In 1962, his Squadron won the 8th Air Force Trophy for best AEMS squadron.
In late 1962, he was invited to return to the USAF Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where he entered their first graduate program in reliability engineering. In August 1964, he graduated with a MS Degree in Systems Engineering-Reliability. Upon graduation he was transferred to the USAF Electronic Systems Division, Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts. In 1965 he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
In 1966 he was assigned as the Chief of Engineering and Program Manager for the development and installation of overseas switches, which were part of the Overseas AUTOVON program (DOD, the first worldwide direct dial telephone system). In June 1969, the first four switches in Europe, and one switch in Panama, were successfully cut over to become operational. The remaining switches in Europe and the five switches in the Western Pacific were cut over on schedules that ran through 1969 and into 1970.
In late 1969, Lt. Col. Hardy was returned to flying duty and received training as an Aircraft Commander on AC 119 K gunships. In April 1970, he was transferred to the 18th Special Operations Squadron in Vietnam. The 18th SOS was based at Phan Rang Air Base in South Vietnam, but all squadron aircraft were located at Udorn Air Base in northern Thailand or at DaNang Air Base in South Vietnam. He was assigned as Detachment Commander for the aircraft based in Thailand. He flew 70 combat missions over areas in Laos. He returned to the states in April 1971 and retired from the Air Force in November 1971.
Hardy then had an exemplary career as a senior project manager at General Telephone & Electronics (GTE) Corp, for 17 years. In 1989, he retired at the age of 64. At this time, he began spending his winters in Florida, and in 2003, moved his family to Sarasota.
In November 2019, Lt. Col. Hardy updated information for his Library of Congress Veterans History Project. Included in his personal narratives collection, is a spell binding, 47-minute, living history video of Hardy at age 83, where he provides details about his remarkable service as a Tuskegee Airman and the challenges he overcame.
On Jan. 18, 2019, Lt. Col. Hardy brought his inspirational WWII story to FAMU ROTC Cadets, veterans, and the community, where he received a standing ovation. This presentation led to a life story video project, Kings of Freedom," honoring Lt. Col. Hardy and his life lessons. Premiers are planned in Tallahassee at FSU, FAMU and TCC in 2020.
In October 2018, Lt. Col. Hardy participated as a panelist in the Punta Gorda, Florida, International Air Show featuring the Commemorative Air Forces Red Tail Rise above Exhibit which showcased a P-SlC Red Tail Mustang, like the one he flew in WWII.
CAF Red Tail Squadron's RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, Oshkosh, Wisconsin & Tallahassee
On July 28, 2018, Lt. Col George Hardy (93) and Col. (BG) Charles McGee (98), attended the EAA Air Venture 2018 at Wittman Regional airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. They gave children the history of the Tuskegee Airmen and how they overcame discrimination. He also participated with the CAF Red Tail Squadron's RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit in Tallahassee
Education and Training Accomplishments:
- Tuskegee University - Honorary Doctorate Degree of Public Service (2006)
- U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology - Master of Science Degree in Systems Engineering-Reliability (1964)
- U. S’. Air Force Institute of Technology - Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering (1957)
- Aviation Cadet Training at Tuskegee Army Airfield Graduated as a pilot and commissioned as a 2nd LT (1944)
- South Philadelphia High School Diploma (1942)
Professional or Employment History:
2008-Present: Tuskegee Airmen Motivational, Educational & Keynote Speaker 2008-Present: Tuskegee Airmen Red Tail Traveling Exhibit Panel member Tuskegee, AL Dayton, Ohio
2007: Congressional Gold Medal
1972-1989: Project Manager, General Telephone & Electronics (GTE) Corp. 1971-1971: IG Office, Air Force Systems Command, Andrews AFB
1970-1971: Detachment Cdr., 18th Special Operations Squadron, Udorn AFB, Thailand 1964-1970: Chief Engineer & Program Manager of DOD Overseas AUTOVON Program
1965: Promoted to Lt. Colonel
1963-1964: MS Degree in System Engineering-Reliability, Wright Patterson AFB
1961-1962: Commander, 4108th AEMS Squadron, 4108th Air Refueling Wing (KC-97 aircraft)
1960: Promoted to Major
1951-1961: Armament & Electronic Maintenance Squadrons, Strategic Air Command 1949-1951: 19th Bomb Group (B-29 aircraft) Korea War missions Guam & Okinawa
1950: Promoted to Captain
1948-1949: 301st Fighter Squadron 332nd Fighter Group (P-47 aircraft), Keesler AFB 1947-1948: New York University School of Engineering
1946-1947: Discharged from the US Army Air Force (Two-year break in service) 1945-1946: 99th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group (P-51 aircraft), Italy
1944: Graduated from Tuskegee Flight School & commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant 1943-1944: 320th College Training Detachment & Tuskegee Army Airfield for training
Advocacy on Behalf of Veterans:
LT. COL. George Hardy, at age 95, is a motivational speaker and historical educator representing the World War II, African-American pilots, known as the Tuskegee Airmen.
Guided by his strong faith in God and this country. Hardy has risen above many challenges. His remarkable military career has inspired tens of thousands of Americans and Floridians. His military history is included at the end of this application.
For over 75 years, Lt. Col. Hardy has proven his worthiness. He is grateful for being given the opportunity to serve and fight for the United States of America. In his distinguished, more than 28-year military career, Hardy flew 136 combat missions in three wars: World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
On a weekly basis, Lt. Col. Hardy is invited to speak to veterans, reservists and ROTC cadets at military bases. Veteran of Foreign War and American Legion Posts and universities. He is invited to speak on major service holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day. Hardy is interviewed regularly by local, statewide and national newspapers and radio and television stations to discuss, promote and advocate for veteran issues.
Lt. Col. Hardy is an active member and provides support to both the 19th Bombardment Group Association and the AC 119 Gunship Association and Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. In addition, he actively participates in the VFW organization in Florida and nationally. He counsels and provides guidance individually to veterans and their families and participates in memorial services at the National Cemeteries.
With a spirit of humility, forgiveness and humor, Lt. Col. George Hardy shares his military experiences of how he overcame many obstacles to achieve success. At numerous national and state events, Hardy tells his military story with respect and gratitude for our nation. He believes this country allowed him to reach his goal of becoming a pilot—rising above and beyond whomever and whatever tried to hold him back.
In 2007, Hardy was an honoree in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda when President George W. Bush awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to the Tuskegee Airmen. Bush said, "I thank you for the honor you have brought to our country, and the medal you are about to receive means that our country honors you." President Bush then saluted them, saying he wanted to offer this gesture to "help atone for all the unreturned salutes and unforgivable indignities they endured."
Civic Activities and Contributions:
Lt. Col. Hardy participates in many civic and volunteer activities, traveling on more than 15 or more trips a year. In 2016, at age 91, he described a typical, two-week travel itinerary, stating, "It started with a week at the Sun 'N' Fun Air Show in Lakeland, Florida, with four radio and two TV interviews. Then, there was an auditorium full of kids at Hunter College High School in New York. Last week, it was the Smoky Mountain Air Show in Knoxville. Thursday, I will be in New Orleans at the National World War II museum."
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach:
In January 2020, Lt. Col. Hardy helped a student develop a display for the Red Tail Squadron's P- 51 Mustang Exhibit. This award-winning display is scheduled to be at the July 2020 Air Venture Red Tail Exhibit in Dallas and will be on permanent display in the National Air Base Rise Above Red Tail Traveling Exhibit mobile theater. - Library of Congress Veterans History Project, Washington, DC:
In November 2019, Lt. Col. Hardy updated information for his Library of Congress Veterans History Project. Included in his personal narratives collection, is a spell binding, 47-minute, living history video of Hardy at age 83, where he provides details about his remarkable service as a Tuskegee Airman and the challenges he overcame. - A WWII Legend visits FAMU, Tallahassee:
On Jan. 18, 2019, Lt. Col. Hardy brought his inspirational WWII story to FAMU ROTC Cadets, veterans, and the community, where he received a standing ovation. This presentation led to a life story video project, Kings of Freedom," honoring Lt. Col. Hardy and his life lessons. Premiers are planned in Tallahassee at FSU, FAMU and TCC in 2020. - West Palm Beach Daily News article on Lt. Col. Hardy community service:
In October 2018, Lt. Col. Hardy participated as a panelist in the Punta Gorda, Florida, International Air Show featuring the Commemorative Air Forces Red Tail Rise Above Exhibit which showcased a P-51C Red Tail Mustang, like the one he flew in WWII. - CAF Red Tail Squadron's RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, Oshkosh, Wisconsin & Tallahassee:
On July 28, 2018, Lt. Col George Hardy (93) and Col. (BG) Charles McGee (98), attended the EAA Air Venture 2018 at Wittman Regional airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. They gave children the history of the Tuskegee Airmen and how they overcame discrimination. He also participated with the CAF Red Tail Squadron's RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit in Tallahassee. - Tuskegee Airmen honored at National WWII Museum, New Orleans:
On April 21, 2016, Lt. Col. George E. Hardy and Col. (now BG) Charles McGee spoke at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans for the installation of a Red tail P-51 Mustang, the warplane made famous by the segregated Africa-American 332nd Fighter Group of the U.S. Army Air Forces. Hardy and McGee are two of only 13 living members of the famed Red Tail Tuskegee Airmen. - Annual "Sun 'n Fun" Aerospace Expo, Lakeland:
On April 5, 2016, Lt. Col Hardy was invited as panelist at the Sun 'N' Fun Aerospace Expo for a special dedication program honoring the Tuskegee Airmen—America's first black military pilots and their support personnel. The program centered around the Commemorative - Air Force Red Tail Squadron - Rise Above Exhibit. It featured the panoramic film, "Rise Above," in which Hardy, one of the narrators, said he, "has looked forward to Sun 'n Fun for the past five years because it gives him the opportunity to share his story and to hear about others as well." - A Salute to A Living Legend Video Premier, MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa:
February 11, 2016. Lt. Col. Hardy was invited to speak to an audience of more than 140 Military members, veterans, civilians, and family members at the General Davis Conference Center. Hardy was interviewed by Airman 1st Class Brad Tipton, prior to the "A Salute to a Living Legend" screening. - Tuskegee Airmen Expansion Exhibit, Dayton, Ohio:
In February 2015, LT. Col. Hardy spoke at the Air Force National Museum opening of the Tuskegee Airmen Expansion Exhibit in Dayton, Ohio - Tuskegee Honor their own WWII Veterans, Tuskegee, Alabama:
On October 10, 2008, Lt. COL. Hardy was honored in Tuskegee, Alabama, with other Airmen at the grand opening of the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Museum. - National World War II Museum, New Orleans:
Hardy was interviewed about flying a P-51 Mustang in an online Electronic Field Trip webinar for the "Fighting for the Right to Fight: African American Experiences in WWII" series. - Local Educational Activities, Sarasota & Manatee Counties
On an ongoing basis, Lt. Col. Hardy participates in numerous educational activities at many Sarasota area schools. Hardy teaches as a volunteer in the Adult Education program. Classroom on Wheels, a school bus-based traveling classroom for Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Awards and Honors:
- Distinguished Flying Cross,
- Air Medal with 11 oak leaf-clusters
- Two Presidential Unit Citations
- Congressional Gold Medal
At age 95, Lt. Col. George Hardy exemplifies what is best in Florida senior citizens and veterans. Hardy, in his very active retirement, represents Florida 24/7/365 as an exemplar of service and dedication. Although Hardy is often in the limelight, he prefers to be in the background.
In 1989, after both a distinguished, more than 28-year military career and an exemplary 17- years as project manager with General Telephone & Electronics, Hardy retired at age 64. The Hardy family fell in love with Florida and overwintered in Sarasota for almost 15 years.
In, 2003, Hardy became a permanent resident of Florida, making his home in Sarasota. For more than 30 years, Florida has been his adopted home base of operations, from which he continues to serve the greater good.
For three decades, Lt. Col. Hardy has made a significant contribution to Florida's civic, business and public service. He continuously volunteers his time—and his experience, strength, and hope. He travels throughout the state of Florida most of the year as an honored and respected motivational, educational and keynote speaker presenting Tuskegee Airmen history.
His message to Florida veterans and students of all races, both male and female—is that they can be pilots—and that anyone can rise above obstacles and soar to success. Hardy motivates and teaches them how to achieve and accomplish their best in life and shares the professional traits they need to succeed. Hardy inspires female students to do their best and encourages them to become pilots, by sharing stories about the WWII Women Air Force Service Pilots.
Lt. Col. Hardy is a highly-regarded panel member of the Commemorative Air Force - Red Tail Squadron - Rise Above traveling exhibit. Rise Above, dedicated to honoring the contribution of the Tuskegee Airmen, provides extensive educational resources for students, teachers, and youth leaders to help them learn and be inspired by these remarkable American trailblazers. The exhibit travels to many cities in every region of Florida. Hardy has participated in events in Tallahassee, Lakeland, Punta Gorda, Daytona Beach and Fort Lauderdale.
Hardy teaches as a volunteer at many Sarasota area schools and participates in the Adult Education program. Classroom on Wheels, a school bus-based traveling classroom for half-day field trips.
In Tallahassee, FAMU, FSU and TCC, are honoring Lt. Col. Hardy and his life lessons by premiering a special video of his life. The video. "Kings of Freedom," by Los Angeles film producer Julian Wilson shows the perseverance, strength and good will Lt. Col. Hardy has demonstrated during his military, corporate careers and during his retirement.
In January 2020, Lt. Col. Hardy participated in a project at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, helping a student develop a display for the Red Tail P-51 Mustang Exhibit. This award-winning display is scheduled to be at the July 2020 Air Venture Red Tail Exhibit in Dallas and will be on permanent display in the National Air Base Rise Above Red Tail Traveling Exhibition mobile theater. In addition, he was interviewed for a radio show and gave a motivational speech to students.
He also volunteers as a Food Bank member and serves as an usher with his church, St. Wilfred Episcopal Church of Sarasota.
For 30 years, in a very active retirement, Lt. Col. Hardy, has continuously served America, the US military and the State of Florida. He is an exemplar of all that is best in a veteran supporter and advocate and civic volunteer. Today, he travels tirelessly throughout the state and the nation, providing inspiration and motivation to veterans and civilians of all ages and races.
Lt. Col. Hardy has a had a distinguished military career. He was one of the first African American to fly in World War II, flying 21 (P-51) combat missions. In the Korean War, he flew 45 (B- 29) combat missions as a bomber co-pilot. In addition, he flew 70 (AC-119K Gunship) combat missions the Vietnam War.
Hardy's distinguished military career began in July 1943, when he enlisted in the Army Air Force. He was assigned to Aviation Cadet Training at Tuskegee Army Airfield, Alabama. Hardy graduated as a pilot and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in September 1944. He was the youngest in his graduating Flight Class of 32 Tuskegee Airmen.
In March 1945, after additional combat flight training at Walterboro AAF, South Carolina, Lt. Hardy was assigned to the 99th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group in Italy. There he flew 21 P-51 combat missions over Germany, which included strafing ground targets. Lt. Hardy returned to Tuskegee Army Airfield in August 1945 as an instructor and taught there until it closed in the summer of 1946. He was discharged from active duty in November 1946, which caused a two-year break in his service. He enrolled and studied in the New York University, School of Engineering from September 1947 to June 1948.
In June 1948, Hardy was recalled to active duty at Lockbourne Air Force Base, Columbus Ohio. He was assigned to the 301st Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Bomb Group. Shortly after arriving in the squadron, he was sent to study at the Airborne Electronics Maintenance Officer school at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi.
Starting in 1948, while he was at the school, USAF broke up Black units and integrated them into the total Air Force. Upon graduating in August 1949, he was assigned to the 19th Bomb Group (B-29 aircraft) on the island of Guam. In the 19th Bomb Group he was further assigned to the 28th Bomb Squadron, as the Airborne Electronics Maintenance Officer. As a pilot he also was able to check out in B-29 aircraft and was soon assigned as a copilot on a combat crew.
In June 1950, the Korean War began, and the 19th Bomb Group was transferred to Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. Hardy flew 45 combat missions over Korea as a copilot in B-29 aircraft. While with the 19th Bomb Group, he was promoted to Captain. During the 1950s, he served in positions of increasing responsibility in Armament and Electronics Maintenance Squadrons (AEMS) in the Strategic Air Command.
In August 1955 he entered the Undergraduate Engineering program at the USAF Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. In August 1957, he received a BS Degree in Electrical Engineering. In September 1957, he was assigned to the 3rd Armament and Electronics Maintenance Squadron in the 3rd Bomb Wing (B-57 aircraft), at Johnson Air Base in Japan. There, he served as Maintenance Supervisor for almost 3 years.
Hardy was promoted to the grade of Major in 1960. He also became qualified in flying jet aircraft. He provided maintenance to the B-36 aircraft which was the largest aircraft in the Air Force. In late 1960, he was transferred to Plattsburgh Air Force Base, New York, where he was assigned as the Squadron Commander of the 4108th AEMS of the 4108th Air Refueling Wing. In 1962, his Squadron won the 8th Air Force Trophy for best AEMS squadron.
In late 1962, he was invited to return to the USAF Institute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where he entered their first graduate program in reliability engineering. In August 1964, he graduated with a MS Degree in Systems Engineering-Reliability. Upon graduation he was transferred to the USAF Electronic Systems Division, Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts. In 1965 he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
In 1966 he was assigned as the Chief of Engineering and Program Manager for the development and installation of overseas switches, which were part of the Overseas AUTOVON program (DOD, the first worldwide direct dial telephone system). In June 1969, the first four switches in Europe, and one switch in Panama, were successfully cut over to become operational. The remaining switches in Europe and the five switches in the Western Pacific were cut over on schedules that ran through 1969 and into 1970.
In late 1969, Lt. Col. Hardy was returned to flying duty and received training as an Aircraft Commander on AC 119 K gunships. In April 1970, he was transferred to the 18th Special Operations Squadron in Vietnam. The 18th SOS was based at Phan Rang Air Base in South Vietnam, but all squadron aircraft were located at Udorn Air Base in northern Thailand or at DaNang Air Base in South Vietnam. He was assigned as Detachment Commander for the aircraft based in Thailand. He flew 70 combat missions over areas in Laos. He returned to the states in April 1971 and retired from the Air Force in November 1971.
Hardy then had an exemplary career as a senior project manager at General Telephone & Electronics (GTE) Corp, for 17 years. In 1989, he retired at the age of 64. At this time, he began spending his winters in Florida, and in 2003, moved his family to Sarasota.