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 (Field Artillery) Luke Lea, 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 Commander, 114th Field Artillery, 30th Division, Colonel Lea organized, trained, and handled the regiment in a skillful manner during the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne offensives. By his marked tactical judgment, knowledge of artillery, and loyal devotion to duty he rendered at all times the maximum of support to the Infantry in all tasks assigned his regiment, thereby rendering in a position of great responsibility services of great value to the American Expeditionary Forces.