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 (Field Artillery) John Augur Holabird, 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 Commander of the 12th Field Artillery, 2d Division, during the period from August to November 1918, a position of great responsibility, Lieutenant Colonel Holabird commanded his unit during the offensive of St. Mihiel, Mont Blanc, and Meuse-Argonne with much credit. He has rendered important services to the United States.