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 Brigadier General Samuel D. Rockenbach, 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 Quartermaster of Base Section No. 1, St. Nazaire, from June to December 1917, General Rockenbach rendered especially valuable services. Confronted with a problem of great magnitude, be fraught with serious difficulties, he went about his task with keen determination, and by his energy and great zeal organized and efficiently operated the first American base in France. Later, as Chief of the Tank Corps, by his tireless energy and keen determination he established schools of training for tank personnel and laid the foundation for the organization of the tank units. He ably directed the operations of the tanks with the First Army and contributed in a measure to the success attained.