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 Mr. John Erskine, a United States Civilian, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. As Chairman of the Educational Commission, Mr. Erskine devoted himself with tireless energy to the problem of developing educational opportunities for the American soldiers in France while they were awaiting repatriation. To his rare educational ability, breadth of vision, and initiative is due, in large measure, the success of the educational program of the American Expeditionary Forces.