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 (Air Corps) Donald Norton Yates (AFSN: 584A), United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as special meteorological representative of the United States Army Air Forces to a co-belligerent government during the period 4 August 1942 to 29 November 1942. During this period, Colonel Yates, through his technical knowledge, patience, perseverance, and personality, was largely responsible for the successful negotiation with the co-belligerent government of an exchange of meteorological information, codes, and communications without which the successful culmination of a highly important secret project would have been impossible. Through his initiative, and acting abo e and beyond his assigned responsibilities, he obtained valuable information and formulated plans, the result of which have had a marked effect on the war effort of the United Nations. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Yates and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.