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 Brigadier General William Edward Cole, 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 Commanding Officer of the 351st Field Artillery, 92d Division, from November 1917 to August 1918, by his rare judgment and exceptional ability, General Cole organized and trained his regiment to a high standard of efficiency under the most adverse circumstances. As Brigade Commander from August 1918 until December 1918, he again displayed resourcefulness and unusual ability in the successful organization and training of the 111th and 20th Field Artillery Brigades. As commanding General of Camp Jackson, South Carolina, from January 1919 to April 1919, he rendered most valuable and distinguished service in the demobilization of great numbers of troops and immense quantities of material.