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 Major General Mark Leslie Hersey, 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 a Brigade Commander during the latter part of the Meuse-Argonne operation, General Hersey exhibited qualities of excellent leadership and sound judgment. His Brigade attacked and penetrated the strong enemy position of Bois-des Loges and wrested this strong point from the enemy. The success of his Brigade in this engagement was in a large measure due to his able leadership. Later he commanded with distinction the 4th Division during its operations in occupied territory.