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 Major General Russell C. Davis, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Davis distinguished himself as Vice Chief, National Guard Bureau, the Pentagon, Washington, District of Columbia, from 18 December 1995 to 31 July 1998. During this period, the extraordinary professional skill, remarkable leadership and ceaseless efforts of General Davis resulted in major contributions to the effectiveness and success of the National Guard at every level–internationally, nationally and locally. As the Vice Chief, he was the primary representative of the Chief of the National Guard Bureau on virtually every issue in every forum, in the Chief’s absence. General Davis was instrumental in streamlining and realigning the National Guard Bureau to respond to the downsizing of the national security establishment. General Davis provided the inspiration and guidance in the development of new initiatives in the areas of Extremist Activities, Sexual Harassment Issues, and the Quadrennial Defense Review. Every airman has felt his impact at every unit and state. General Davis stands above others because of his visionary leadership abilities, his pragmatic approach to solving problems, and his unswerving devotion to the organization and its people. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Davis reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.