Recognizing the Service of Patrick Oneal Hardy

Floor Speech

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Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements of Patrick ``Hawk'' Hardy and express my sincere gratitude for his service to our Nation.

Although he is now a resident of Kountze, Texas, Patrick was born in Port Arthur, Texas, on June 14, 1949. Patrick, known by many as ``Hawk,'' and I first met when we were children. In our youth, we made wonderful memories playing football together.

After graduating from French High School, in Beaumont, Texas, in 1968, Hawk enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He bravely served from 1968 to 1970, earning the rank of sergeant. Former Secretary of the Navy, William K. Jones, stated the following citation while awarding Hawk with the Navy Commendation Medal:

For meritorious service, while serving with the Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division in connection with the combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam from 20 September 1969 to 11 September 1970. Throughout this period, Sergeant Hardy performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Following initial assignment to Company H, he was reassigned as Team Leader of the Marine Liaison Team with the Fifth Battalion. Republic of Korea Marine Corps. Participating in several major combat operations, he repeatedly distinguished himself by his courage and composure under fire. Particularity noteworthy were Sergeant Hardy's achievements on 21 July 1970 as he skillfully coordinated the maneuver of United States Marines and Korean Marines, thereby enabling them to close on an enemy force attempting to cross the Vinh Dien River and kill ten enemy soldiers. Displaying exceptional initiative and resourcefulness, he organized and supervised a training program for personnel in his section, which increased their individual proficiency and enhanced the combat effectiveness of his unit. As a result of his diligent and resourceful efforts throughout his tour in the Republic of Vietnam, the operational effectiveness of his unit was greatly enhanced. By his initiative, superb professionalism, and loyal devotion to duty, Sergeant Hardy earned the respect of all who served with him and upheld the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Hawk attended Lamar University in Beaumont, graduating with an associate degree in law enforcement and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. He worked as a deputy sheriff in Harris County from 1971 to 1981. In May of 1981, he earned his Doctor of Jurisprudence. Hawk served as a criminal investigator and First Assistant Prosecutor in Hardin, Jasper, and Tyler counties. He was a county attorney for Tyler County in 1984 and later served as the Tyler County District Attorney from 1985 to 1990. Hawk also served as a criminal investigator in Kaunnan County and was appointed as the Assistant Prosecutor.

Hawk has been a student of taekwondo since the age of 16. However, in the 1970s, he also made a name for himself on the karate circuit, winning numerous titles and awards. He reached professional status after claiming the 1975 U.S. Karate Championship title. From 2000 to 2008, he competed extensively in Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournaments worldwide, winning 21 gold medals, four silver medals, and seven bronze medals. In 2004, he was the legendary Royce Gracie's first Black Belt, which Hawk stated was his proudest moment in martial arts. Hawk still holds a Black Belt in taekwondo, tang soo do, and Gracie jiu-jitsu, as well as a 5th degree in Shotokan.

Madam Speaker, it is a great pleasure to honor my friend Patrick ``Hawk'' Hardy. His love for our country is evident in his patriotic service and diligence in protecting and defending it. He is one-of-a-kind.

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