"Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael & St. George" for Brigadier General John Arthur Clark "AUSPICIUM MELIORIS VI". This is a medal to be worn around the neck. His other medals have been catalogued separately (1986.024.001a). The Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George is a British order of chivalry founded on 28 April 1818 by George, Prince Regent, later King George IV while he was acting as Prince Regent for his father, King George III. It is named in honour of two military saints, St Michael and St George. The Order of St Michael and St George was originally awarded to those holding commands or high position in the Mediterranean territories acquired in the Napoleonic Wars, and was subsequently extended to holders of similar office or position in other territories of the British Empire. It is at present awarded to men and women who hold high office or who render extraordinary or important non-military service in a foreign country, and can also be conferred for important or loyal service in relation to foreign and Commonwealth affairs. John Arthur Clark CMG DSO (3) KC BA LLB was born in Dundas, Ontario (ON) the son of William & Frances Clark. Clark was educated at the University of Toronto (BA) and Osgoode Hall Toronto (LLB). In 1903, he joined the 77th Wentworth Regiment of the Militia and in 1910 transferred to the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada in Vancouver. In 1915, he was given command of the 72nd Overseas Battalion with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In August 1916, he proceeded to France in command of that Battalion. Clark and his Battalion were at the Battle of the Ypres Salient, and the Battle of the Somme in 1916. They were at the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the Battle of Hill 70 and the Battle of Passchendaele in 1917. In 1918, they were at the Battle of Amiens, Drocourt, and Queant. In September 1918, he was promoted to Brigadier General in command of the 17th Infantry Brigade at Cambrai, Forest de Raimes and at the capture of Mons. In recognition of his skill and outstanding bravery during the hazardous and death defying action in which he and his unit were engaged he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) three times. The British government also made him a Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George (CMG).