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 Rear Admiral Josiah Slutts McKean, 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, as Acting Chief of Naval Operations. Rear Admiral McKean’s advice and assistance greatly tended to the successful outcome of the many problems requiring the close cooperation of the Navy and Army.