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 William R. Wellesley, Royal British Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, during World War I. In his capacity as Undersecretary of State for War, Lieutenant Colonel Wellesley manifested a constant desire to assist the American Expeditionary Forces in every possible way. The cordial spirit of cooperation and harmony which has marked the relations between the British and American forces during their struggle against the common enemy has been due, in large measure, to his zealous efforts.