Sheldon V. Clarke

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Sheldon V. Clarke, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Raulecourt, France, August 28 and September 26, 1918. While making a general surveillance of enemy territory on August 28, and September 26, 1918, Lieutenant Clarke was attacked by enemy planes. On both occasions he remained at his post and directed the fire by telephone until his balloon had been set on fire. On August 28 he assisted a passenger to descend, and did not jump himself until the other’s parachute had opened. On both occasions he re-ascended as soon as another balloon could be obtained.