The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal (Posthumously) to Major (Infantry) Augustus Peabody Gardner, 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. Resigning as a Member of Congress to serve under his reserve commission as Colonel, Adjutant General’s Department, in 1917, Major Gardner served first at Headquarters, Eastern Department, Governors Island, New York, and later as Adjutant, 31st Division, and commanded a battalion in that regiment until his death. His entire service was characterized by untiring zeal, devotion to duty, and marked success. His splendid example of patriotism will always serve as an inspiration to his countrymen.