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) John R. Thomas, Jr., 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 Aviation Division of the Intelligence Section, Colonel Thomas displayed unusual energy and skill in the collection and dissemination of information regarding the enemy’s air forces. During part of the period covered by the Meuse-Argonne offensive operations he acted as Head of the Intelligence Section and performed the duties of that position with marked ability and sound judgment.