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 (Adjutant General’s Corps) Louis A. Toombs, 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 Provost Marshal in Italy, a position of great responsibility, during the critical situation arising from the decision of the Peace Conference on the Fiume question, by the means of good judgment and tact, Lieutenant Colonel Toombs so managed the situation as to prevent all friction between the American Expeditionary Forces and the Italian populace. Due to his efficiency the military police of Italy were held to a high state of military training and discipline. He has rendered services of much value.