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 (Coast Artillery Corps) Clair Warren Baird, 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. As Assistant to the Chief of Coast Artillery during the entire period of the war and as Chief of the Personnel Section from 24 September 1918, Colonel Baird displayed foresight, excellent judgment, and marked ability in the preparation and execution of plans for the effective accomplishment of the duties assigned to the Coast Artillery Corps in the operations in France, thereby rendering services of great value to the Government.