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 (Infantry) Walter C. Sweeney, 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 Chief of Staff of the 28th Division, Colonel Sweeney rendered conspicuously valuable services in the Meuse-Argonne offensive. In the capture of the strong enemy positions at le Chene Tondu, Apremont, Chatel-Chehery, and Hill No. 244, by his marked ability and tactical knowledge he proved a material factor in the successes achieved during these important operations.