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 (Infantry), [then Major] Lawrence Varsi Castner (ASN: 0-15356), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility, as Assistant Chief of Staff, G-2, Alaska Defense Command, between 19 November 1940 and 3 September 1943. Through his untiring efforts, initiative, and knowledge of the territory of Alaska, he directed the development of and is largely responsible for the military intelligence system in the Alaskan mainland and in the Aleutians between 7 December 1941 and 3 September 1943, Colonel Castner demonstrated outstanding leadership and devotion to duty. He contributed greatly to the success of the operations to clear the enemy from the Aleutians by organizing the Alaskan Scouts, used for reconnaissance work in the Aleutians, and personally leading them in an advance landing at Adak, making a hazardous journey by submarine and landing in a rough, cold sea on a dangerous shore in small rubber boats. The distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Castner reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.