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 Mr. Gerald Swope, a United States Civilian, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. As one of the Principal Advisors and Assistants to the Director of Purchase, Storage, and Traffic, Mr. Swope accomplished the task of working out the detailed plan for bringing under one head the direction and supervision of procurement, storage, and issue of all commodities and articles of equipment and supply needed for the Army. It was due to his foresight, ability, energy and loyal cooperation that the procurement program for the great Army of 1918 was successfully planned, and he assisted materially in carrying it into effect, thereby contributing directly to the success of the military program.