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 (Coast Artillery Corps) William H. Wilson, 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. Colonel Wilson displayed extensive scientific knowledge, together with a keen practical grasp of conditions, as Artillery Inspector with the first battalion of American Railway Artillery in action against the enemy. As a member of the Training Section, he was at all times energetic and tactful in the supervision of training of railway, tractor, trench, and anti-aircraft artillery. As its Executive Officer, he organized and conducted an item of the general system of the Training Section, being tireless in devotion to his important duties.