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 (Judge Advocate General’s Department) James H. Hayes, 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. As Judge Advocate of the 2d Division during its organization in October 1917, and throughout all its combat operations, he handled with unusual merit many questions confronting him. By his high order of legal ability, broad vision, excellent judgment, and a most comprehensive knowledge of discipline and morale he rendered services of exceptional value to the American Expeditionary Forces.