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 Major General John P. Smith (ASN: 0-2488), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility, as Commanding General, Fourth Corps Area, from 11 October 1940 to 25 February 1942. During the period, Major General Smith was in command of the Fourth Corps Area, approximately half of the troops of the Army, within the continental limits of the United States, were stationed in that Corps Area. Major General Smith carried out his duties with energy and marked ability, and the success with which the expansion of the Army was carried out in that Corps area was the direct result of his untiring efforts, his leadership, and the inspiration which his policy of service to the field forces furnished to all who worked with him.