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 Vice Admiral Marie J. L. Lacaze, French Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, during World War I, as Commander in Chief and Perfect, 5th Maritime Region. At a critical period of the war, Vice Admiral Lacaze performed invaluable service by giving assistance in the establishment of a supplementary American port at the French naval base of Toulon. He assigned docks, storage, and transport facilities to the American authorities, aiding them with his wise advice and experience, and thus assuring the rapid development of the American interests at this port.