Dr. William Hardy Appointed MBE

30 January 2024

Government, Press Release

On 26 January, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh presented Dr. William Hardy with the award he received in the 2023 New Year’s Overseas and International Honours list.

Dr. Hardy, Senior Medical Officer (SMO) in the Ascension Island Government (AIG) was made an Honorary Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to the health and the well-being of the Ascension Island community.

Dr. Hardy has served the Island’s community as SMO for the last decade, leading the AIG’s healthcare team, dealing calmly and professionally with all that has come his way, including two shark attacks in 2017 and throughout the Coronavirus Pandemic. From delivering babies to dealing with heart attacks, Dr. Hardy has showcased an incredible ability to adapt and respond to the fullest range of medical issues.

Dr. Hardy is also a member of the island’s statutory child safeguarding board. However, his commitment to the island’s well-being goes beyond his obligations in that role and includes going out of his way to counsel and support those who suffer from emotional or mental health difficulties.

Dr. Hardy commented:

‘I am delighted and deeply honoured to have received this wonderful award, which I consider to be a recognition, not only of myself, but of the entire medical team at Georgetown Hospital. To all of you I offer my own congratulations and heartfelt thanks. This is truly a reflection of your own contributions to the work we all share here. I should also like to express my appreciation to our Administrator and the staff of the AIG who have been wonderfully supportive of me and my family at this time.’