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 Commander Charles Belknap, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I, with the Naval Overseas Transportation Service in the Office of Naval Operations. Commander Belknap’s successful organization and administration of this service contributed greatly to the successful operation of the American forces abroad.