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) Frank C. Gerlach, 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 Lieutenant Colonel, 146th Infantry Regiment, 37th Division, from May 1917 until October 1918, Colonel Gerlach organized and developed to a high state of efficiency a training school in the Baccarat Sector, France. Later, as Colonel, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Division, he commanded his regiment with marked success during the Ypres-Lys offensive, showing at all times great energy, resourcefulness, and splendid leadership, thereby contributing materially to the successes achieved in this important operation.