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 Major (Medical Corps) George C. Beach, Jr., United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility. At the time of the influenza epidemic in 1918, Major Beach was serving as Camp Surgeon at Camp Greene, North Carolina. By his foresightedness in providing ample hospital facilities during the early stages of the epidemic and by his efficient action in directing the care of patients, he was primarily responsible for a large reduction in the mortality rate at that camp. His efforts were untiring and he continued until he was stricken with the malady in its most serious form. He showed a rare devotion to duty in that, although himself a sufferer from the disease, his efforts were unabated.