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 (Signal Corps) Karl Truesdell, 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 Signal Officer of the 1st Division and the 5th Army Corps, Lieutenant Colonel Truesdell displayed high professional attainments and unflagging zeal. By his skill in directing the construction and maintenance of extensive telephone and wireless systems he contributed materially to the success of combat operations.