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 (Infantry) William N. Hughes, Jr., 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. While he was serving as G-3 and as Chief of Staff of the 42d Division, Colonel Hughes’ efforts had an important bearing on the successes gained by the Division in the Baccarat sector, at the Second Battle of the Marne, the operations near Chalons, Chateau-Thierry, the St. Mihiel salient, and along the Meuse. His splendid judgment and tactical ability were of the greatest value and demonstrated military knowledge of a high order.