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 William Lacy Kenly, United States Army Air Service, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. As Chief of Air Service, American Expeditionary Forces, by his executive ability, clear conception, and broad mental grasp, General Kenly was able to overcome many obstacles and placed the training of Air Service personnel on an efficient basis. Later, as Director of Military Aeronautics in the United States, he successfully organized and accomplished the training of personnel for overseas service with a resulting high degree of morale throughout the Air Service and the efficient performance of duties at the front. Serving at the same time as a member of the Advisory Committee and Joint Army and Navy Airship Board, he rendered services of inestimable value to the Government in positions of great responsibility.