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 Harry Alexander 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. General Smith rendered most conspicuous service as Commandant of the Army schools at Langres, France, the success of which was, in a large measure, due to his vision, zeal and administrative ability. He later showed marked executive ability as Officer in Charge of the administration of civil affairs in German territory occupied by the American Army.