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) Alvan Chambliss Read, 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. As Inspector General for the armies during their operations in the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne offensives, by his keen observations of the conduct of units and leadership displayed by commanders, Colonel Read was able at all times to give valuable information as to the morale and efficiency of troops and their commanders. By the able handling of his important duties, prompt and adequate means were always provided for improving conditions as to these important factors in the conduct of operations. Later, as Chief Inspector of the Army of the Occupation, he continued to render the same superior quality of service which marked that given by him prior to the armistice.