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 (Corps of Engineers) John Clifford Hodges Lee, Sr. (ASN: 0-2582), 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. In the preparations for the drive on the St. Mihiel salient in September 1918, and for the Argonne-Meuse offensive in October 1918, Colonel Lee had charge of the detailed arrangements for and subsequent execution of the operations of the 89th Division. The successes attained by this Division were largely due to his splendid staff coordination, marked tactical ability, and sound judgment.