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 Colonel of Infantry Marie C. L. Spitz, 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, while serving as Chief of Staff, 2d Division of Infantry, French Army. Colonel Spitz has been a most sincere and devoted friend to the American interests, always willing to do more than his share to bring about a harmonious and friendly understanding between the French and American authorities. By his unfailing tact, sympathy, and understanding, and by his untiring efforts to successfully solve the many intricate problems that arose between the French and the Americans, he has rendered an invaluable service to the American Expeditionary Forces.