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 (Infantry) David John Markey, 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. While in action with the 58th Infantry Brigade, 29th Division, north of Verdun, 1918, in the absence of a regularly detailed Brigade Adjutant, Major Markey performed the exacting duties of that office in addition to his duties as Commander of the Machine-Gun Battalion under circumstances requiring exceptional courage, tactical judgment, initiative, and endurance, all of which he displayed to a marked degree. By his brilliant professional attainments, his untiring energy and keen foresight he contributed largely to the subsequent successes of his brigade and division. He handled with rare skill and in a masterful manner the multifarious duties devolving upon him in a position of great responsibility.