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 (Corps of Engineers) William Kelly, 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. After serving with great credit in the field, Colonel Kelly took command of the important Ports of La Rochelle and La Pallice. By his executive ability and great energy he promptly relieved congested conditions and made possible the uninterrupted flow of necessary supplies toward the front.