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 in lieu of the Certificate of Merit previously issued to Private James Pickett, United States Army, for coolness, energy, and gallantry while serving as a member of Company C, 9th Infantry Regiment, in the battle of Tientsin, China, on 13 July 1900, in carrying important messages which greatly aided in withdrawal of the command after nightfall; also in constructing under fire a small traverse which afforded protection against the flanking fire of the enemy.