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 (Corps of Engineers) William B. Greely, 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. In charge of the Forestry Section of the Division of Construction in Forestry from 1 September 1918 to 6 July 1919, Lieutenant Colonel Greely supervised the operations of all forestry troops in France. He rendered highly important and valuable service to the Government, contributing markedly to the success of the American forces in France.