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 Ferdinand A. Pont, 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. General Pont served with marked distinction throughout the war and in positions of great responsibility rendered invaluable service to the American Expeditionary Forces. As Deputy Chief of Staff of the French Army he displayed brilliant military genius and was at all times ready to afford us most loyal cooperation.