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 Walter S. Franklin, 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 Officer in Charge of Embarkation Service in the Troop and Cargo Division of the Army Transport Service, a position of great responsibility, by his energy, tact, and initiative, arrangements were effected whereby a large share of the British ocean passenger tonnage was made available for the American use, and whereby additional allied and neutral tonnage for the return of the American Expeditionary Forces was procured. Lieutenant Colonel Franklin has rendered services of much value.