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 Lieutenant Colonel (Corps of Engineers) James Clawson Roop, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. Lieutenant Colonel Roop served as Assistant to the General Purchasing Agent, American Expeditionary Forces. His marked ability and tact were important factors in numerous negotiations with the allied armies and governments, involving critical matters of supply to our Army. In the organization of the work of the General Purchasing Board and General Purchasing Agent, Colonel Roop throughout its existence was an indispensable factor in a position of great responsibility. He rendered most distinguished service in connection with important supplies of all kinds for the Army as well as in the organization of the general system of coordination between the supply services of the American Expeditionary Forces and the allied armies.