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 (Corps of Engineers) James Bates Cavanaugh, 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 Commander of an Engineer regiment, Colonel Cavanaugh rendered great assistance in the early development of the American port at Bassens. As Assistant Chief of Staff in charge of the Administrative Section of the Services of Supply, he exhibited rare qualities and marked ability in the solution of many problems of policy. His efforts in connection with the repatriation of American troops have been of conspicuous merit.