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 Joseph M. G. Gassouin, French 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 Director of French Military Railways, General Gassouin displayed the same administrative ability and devotion to duty which had characterized his service as a commander of a division in the field. He has at all times showed a broad-minded appreciation of the transportation needs of the American Army and by his cordial spirit of cooperation and valuable assistance in furnishing the necessary railway facilities has rendered a substantial service to the American Expeditionary Forces.