The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Service) Sheldon V. Clarke, United States Army Air Service, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 9th Balloon Company, U.S. Army Air Service, A.E.F., near Raulecourt, France, August 28 and 26 September 1918. While making a general surveillance of enemy territory on 28 August and 26 September 1918, Lieutenant Clarke was attacked by enemy planes. On both occasions he remained at his post and directed the fire by telephone until his balloon had been set on fire. On August 28 he assisted a passenger to descend, and did not jump himself until the other’s parachute had opened. On both occasions he re-ascended as soon as another balloon could be obtained.