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 Lieutenant Colonel (Signal Corps) Roy Howard Coles, 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. Lieutenant Colonel Coles served as Assistant to and Executive Officer for the Chief Signal Officer, American Expeditionary Forces, and at all times her performed his most exacting duties in an especially meritorious manner. By his exceptional executive ability, tireless energy, and sound judgment he successfully met every demand that was made upon him.