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) John Van B. Metts, 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 Metts Commanded with marked distinction the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Division, from the time of its organization and early training period to the completion of the active combat operations in the Ypres-Lys and Somme offensives. He especially distinguished himself while in command of his regiment on 29 September 1918, during the assault on the Hindenburg line, near Bellicourt, France, where he displayed marked ability and sound judgment. He has rendered services of signal worth to the American Expeditionary Forces.