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) James A. McCrea, 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 McCrea rendered especially efficient services to the American Expeditionary Forces while acting as General Manager of the Transportation Service and later as Deputy Director General of Transportation in the Advance Section. He handled his duties in a most efficient manner, showing marked ability, great zeal, and energy.