Mary Hardy

Mary began her military journey in August 1977 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, when she enlisted in the Army National Guard as a Military Police Officer. In 1979, she transitioned to the Air Force Reserve, serving with the 440th Combat Support Squadron in Milwaukee, WI. Her exceptional work ethic and leadership skills quickly set her apart, leading to multiple assignments across the country, including roles in San Antonio, Texas; Fairfield, California; and Albuquerque, New Mexico. As well as special tour in Rhine Main AFB, Germany.

In 1996, she was appointed as the State Recruiting and Retention Superintendent for the Wisconsin Air National Guard, a role in which she served until her retirement. She oversaw the recruiting and retention efforts across four major units in Wisconsin, trained and evaluated personnel in accordance with national regulations, and advised senior military leadership on strategic workforce initiatives.

SMSgt Hardy played a vital role in shaping the Air National Guard’s human capital framework. She managed federal recruiting budgets, implemented award programs, developed advertising and public awareness strategies, and conducted annual inspections at unit offices. Her influence extended beyond military operations; she coordinated employer and family support efforts and organized community engagement events across the state.

Her professionalism earned her a distinguished reputation among peers and leadership alike. Her service was recognized through numerous awards and decorations, including:

• Meritorious Service Medal

• Aerial Achievement Medal

• Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters

• Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two oak leaf clusters

• National Defense Service Medal with service star

• Air Force Organizational Excellence Award

• Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal

• Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with oak leaf cluster

• Armed Forces Reserve Medal with hourglass device

• Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon

• Air Force Training Ribbon

She also received Outstanding State Recognitions from Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson, U.S. Senator Herbert Kohl, Mayor John Norquist, the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, and multiple local media outlets. Additionally, she was a proud recipient of the State Black Excellence Award, a reflection of her lasting impact on the community and her advocacy for equity and inclusion in military service.

Mary’s educational accomplishments include graduation from the Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, and the Air Reserve Recruiting School, Air Force Supervisory course with honors, among many others. Throughout her 30 years, 4 months, and 20 days of dedicated service, she consistently received Excellent and Superior appraisals.

More than her professional achievements, Mary will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, devoted family member, and strong woman of principle. Her life was a shining example of service before self. She mentored, inspired, and uplifted those around her, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Agnes Hardy; her daughter, Lorraine Callier; and other beloved family members.

She is survived by her children: LaMar (Renee) Callier, LaWanda (KC) Callier-Edwards, Yvette Callier, Charles (Yvonne) Callier, and Francis (Ana) Hardy, along with a host of beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family

Mary’s dedication and integrity earned her a reputation as a trusted leader and mentor. She touched the lives of many through her example, her guidance, and her love for service. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, family, friends, and the many men and women who had the honor of serving beside her.