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 Colonel (Corps of Engineers) Elbert A. Gibbs, 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. Colonel Gibbs served with distinction as Chief of the General Construction Section in the Office of the Director of Construction and Forestry. Charged with the supervision of important engineering construction projects, he gave proof of high professional attainments and keen foresight, rendering invaluable services to the American Expeditionary Forces.