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) John V. Clinnin, 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 Regimental Commander of the 130th Infantry, 33d Division, by his force and energy Colonel Clinnin brought his regiment to a high state of efficiency, instilling into it an aggressive spirit which proved a valuable factor in the operations of the regiment near Breuillers, Verdun, Bois-de-Chaume, Sivry, and Bois du Plains Chene. He rendered services of great merit.