The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Lieutenant General Earl Clifford Hedlund (ASN: 0-362396), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Hedlund distinguished himself as Director, Defense Supply Agency, Department of Defense, from July 1967 to July 1971. During this period, General Hedlund skillfully directed a major Defense agency by constantly employing the most progressive and advanced management techniques and procedures. He met the many difficult and complex challenges of his position with rare executive ability, managerial excellence, enlightened leadership, and a comprehensive knowledge of military logistics. The quality and effectiveness of his performance have commanded the respect of the Congress, the Defense establishment, and other governmental agencies and activities, and industry. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Hedlund reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.