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 C. Braly (ASN: 0-7972), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility, in the Philippine Islands, from 8 December 1941 to 17 March 1942. As Plans and Training Officer of the Harbor Defenses of Manila and Subic Bays, Colonel Braly had prepared detailed plans for the modernization of the defensive installation of the harbor defenses. On the outbreak of hostilities, he continued efficiently to prepare detailed operation instructions for the conduct of the defense, and for the installation of additional armament and for the construction of additional tunnels and other works providing protection against aerial attack. His effective staff work contributed materially to the success of the operations of the harbor defenses throughout this period.