The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Billy Joe Ellis, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Ellis distinguished himself as Commander, 40th Air Division, Wurtamith Air Force Base, Michigan, and as Commander, Air Division Provisional, 17th, U-Tapao Airfield, Thailand, from 22 February 1972 to 14 October 1973. In these important assignments, the forceful and dynamic leadership and superior dedicated efforts of General Ellis were significantly displayed in the strategic direction of the 40th Air Division and the 17th Air Division, the cessation of bombing, and the maintenance of peace in Southeast Asia. The singularly accomplishments of General Ellis reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.