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 Territorial Surgeon, Major of the 2d Class Maurice J. V. Hanotte, French Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, during World War I, for services as Assistant to the Director of the Medical Service, 9th Region, and as a Member of the French Mission, Headquarters, Services of Supply. Due to his energy, devotion to his task, and keen judgment, Major Hanotte rendered valuable assistance to the American Expeditionary Forces in the procurement of buildings for hospitalization and in the placing of American soldiers in French hospitals. His cordial assistance and excellent advice have been of great service to the American medical officials.