 He was appointed a lieutenant colonel, in July 1936, and in October 1937, he became officer in charge, War Plans Section.Hart's next assignment was to the Army War College, Washington, D.C. Graduating in June 1939, he was ordered to the Marine Corps Base, San Diego, California, where he became chief of the planning section.In July 1940, he was named commanding officer, 1st Battalion 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division.