APPLEGATE, CA, US
U. S. Army
SGT, TROOP B, 3D SQD, 61ST CAV, FORT CARSON, CO
10/03/2009, AFGHANISTAN
Army Sergeant Joshua M. Hardt was killed in action on October 3, 2009 while serving in Afghanistan with the 3rd squadron, 61st cavalry regiment, 4th Brigade combat team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colorado Springs. Sgt Hardt died in Kamdesh, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their contingency outpost with small arms, rocket-propelled grenade and indirect fires. He was serving his second deployment and previously served in Iraq from May 2007 thru June 2008. He deployed to Afghanistan on 22 May 2009. He was twenty-six years old.
Joshua joined the U.S. Army in 2006 and began his basic training at Fort Knox. He took advanced training at Fort Knox as a Cavalry Scout. He moved to Fort Stewart in Hinesville, Georgia for his first duty station and was in the 3rd Infantry Division. From 2007-08, he served his first deployment to Iraq along with his brother, Jonathon. Upon completion of his first tour, he was stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
He was born on September 6, 1985 in Manteca, California and raised in Northern California. He was a resident of Applegate as he attended high school and was a part of the Class of 2004 Joshua was a graduate of Placer High School where he was such a talented football player that his high school retired his helmet. He was named to the 2003 All Sierra Football League team as an outside linebacker.
Joshua realized the opportunities presented by military service. His future seemed very bright and he had lots going for him. A loving family man, and devoted to his wife and high school sweetheart. Josh believed that a military career was the best way possible to provide for his wife and make a contribution to his country. He loved the job he had in the Army and had recently gotten married. He will be awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and other medals and commendations for his bravery and distinguished service.
Joshua was a great son, husband, brother, friend and hero to many. He also gave the best bear hugs and was always ready with good laugh. He is survived by his parents, wife; brothers, grandparents and extended family and friends.
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