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 (Quartermaster Corps) Preston Davidson, 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 Preston organized the Fuel and Storage Division of the War Department and also assisted in reorganizing the Salvage Service upon a most efficient bases to meet war conditions. By his sound judgment, marked legal and administrative ability, and unselfish devotion to duty he rendered conspicuous service in reorganizing and developing the Real Estate Service of the War Department.