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. Newton D. Baker, a United States Civilian, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Secretary of War during World War I. Mr. Baker was responsible for the organization, development, and completion of a military program which brought success to the American arms. Throughout the war he rendered services of inestimable value to the country.