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 Colonel (Infantry) Walter Crosby Babcock, 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. In command of the 310th Infantry Regiment, 78th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Colonel Babcock displayed marked ability alike in its organization and training and in the field. In offensive operations against the enemy he led his command with exceptional judgment and tactical ability, showing himself always possessed of a full grasp of the situation and its needs, and keeping his higher commanders at all times informed of the conditions as he learned them by personal reconnaissance. He was untiring in energy and devotion to the important tasks assigned him, acting unhesitatingly and successfully in times of emergency.