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 Lieutenant General Giovan Battista Marieni, Italian Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, during World War I. General Marieni served with distinction as Inspector General of Engineers, Italian Army, displaying technical attainments and devoted loyalty to the common cause. Ever ready to aid the American authorities with all the facilities at his command, he was a potent factor in furthering the spirit of cooperation which marked the relations of the Italian and American forces.