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 William I. Westervelt, 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 to the Chief of Artillery, through his initiative, organizing ability, and comprehensive knowledge of the technique and tactics of Artillery in all its branches and particularly through his complete knowledge of Artillery material, General Westervelt has rendered services of exceptional value to the Government.