The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Lieutenant Colonel Robert Burkham, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. By his exceptional ability and energy, Lieutenant Colonel Burkham successfully organized and put into efficient practice the claims department of the rents, requisitions, and claims service. The successful handling of the many complex problems in respect to the adjustment of claims was due, in a large measure, to his high professional attainments and sound judgment. He has rendered services of signal worth to the American Expeditionary Forces.