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 Colonel Serge A. Mestcherinoff, Russian 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 Deputy Military AttachŽ of Russia in France from March 1917 to April 1918, Lieutenant Colonel Mestcherinoff demonstrated qualities of initiative, energy, and ability. Later, as AttachŽ to the King of Montenegro, he showed marked devotion in furthering the friendly relation of the two Governments. He has rendered valuable services to the allied cause.