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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Ernest G. Smith, 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 Chief of the Casualty Section, Central Records Office, Lieutenant Colonel Smith performed with marked efficiency duties of a most exacting character. With untiring efforts, sound analytical ability, and masterful attention to detail he handled questions pertaining to casualties in the American Expeditionary Forces with noteworthy success.