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) Kenneth Hills Bitting (ASN: 0-449372), United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States from 1 February 1944 to 31 May 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Bitting and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces. [This award supersedes the awards to Colonel Bitting, of the Bronze Star Medal for service from January to December 1944, as published in General Orders 64, Headquarters Air Service Command, United States Strategic Air Forces in Europe, 13 December 1944, and the Army Commendation Ribbon for service during the same period.]