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 (Signal Corps) Henry Carpenter Smither, 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 Assistant Chief of Staff in charge of the Supply Section, of the General Staff of the Services of Supply, Colonel Smither demonstrated by his energy, zeal, and masterful efforts a high order of efficiency and ability. He organized the Supply Section and handled without friction the questions of priority and troops orders during the period of the arrival of American troops in France. With a rare gift of tact and address, he discharged most successfully his many important duties.