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) Turner Ashby Sims (ASN: 0-16374), United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States in a duty of great responsibility as Executive Assistant, Army Air Force Materiel Command; and later as Deputy Chief of Staff, Army Air Force Materiel Command, Wright Field, from 1944 to 1945. Colonel Sims was responsible for the development of fighter aircraft to escort heavy bombers and played a vital role in the establishment of aircraft modification centers. He directed and coordinated the Developments, Procurement and Production Aircraft Program and devised ways and means to expedite completion of the most vital developmental projects and maintained maximum production. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Sims and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.