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 General John S. Cowans, Royal British Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, during World War I. As Quartermaster General to the Forces, British Army, General Cowans rendered invaluable service to the American Expeditionary Forces and to the cause in which the United States has been engaged.