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 (Field Artillery Francis William Clark, 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 Acting G-3 of the 3d Corps, Lieutenant Colonel Clark displayed sound judgment and military attainments of the highest order. With the utmost clearness and skill he prepared the orders under which his corps operated both from the Vestle to the Aisne Rivers and during the Meuse-Argonne offensive until 14 October 1918. By his marked tactical ability, loyal devotion to duty, and untiring zeal he contributed materially to the success of those operations.