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 Nicola Vacchelli, 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. As Chief of General Staff Department, Italian Army, General Vacchelli played an important part in bringing about the successful termination of the common struggle against the Central Powers by his distinguished services in a duty of great responsibility. Ever ready to aid the American forces in Italy by all the means at his disposal, he was an important factor in maintaining the harmonious relations between the American and Italian authorities.