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 (Coast Artillery Corps) Marion S. Battle, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. As Artillery Information Officer of the First Army, Colonel Battle efficiently operated this important service. Later, he commanded with distinction a regiment of artillery in the Army of occupation. Subsequently, as Provost Marshal of Paris, he performed duties of a most difficult nature with unfailing tact, efficiency, and sound judgment. He has demonstrated organizing ability and executive capacity to a marked degree, and he has been a contributing factor toward the raising of the morale and efficiency of the American Expeditionary Forces in Paris. He has rendered services of particular merit to the American Expeditionary Forces.