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 Brigadier General William Wright Harts, 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 Command of the important District of Paris, by his painstaking efforts and able directorship, General Harts maintained a high standard of discipline and efficiency among his large command. By his tact and keen perception he handled numerous diplomatic affairs with great satisfaction, rendering services of a superior value to the American Expeditionary Forces.