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 (Corps of Engineers) William J. Wilgus, 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 Delegate of the Special Railway Commission, Director General of Military Railways, and Deputy Director General of Transportation. In all of these positions Colonel Wilgus has demonstrated exceptional ability and untiring energy. The foundation of the Army Transportation Service was largely due to his vision and remarkable judgment. He has shown a degree of devotion to duty far above any calls which would have been made upon him by military authority.