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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Benjamin Franklin McClellan, 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. Attached to the 5th Section of the General Staff, Lieutenant Colonel McClellan displayed high professional attainments and marked executive ability in the general supervision of the entire group of army schools. As an inspector-instructor of infantry, his influence was an important factor in securing the correct tactical training of that arm, rendering creditable services to the American Expeditionary Forces.