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 (Judge Advocate General) James J. Mayes, 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. Colonel Mayes served with marked ability as Deputy Judge Advocate of the American Expeditionary Forces. Fitted for his important duties by wide experience and conspicuous legal attainments, he solved ably and expeditiously the many questions of great moment with which his department was called upon to deal.