The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Brigadier General John Henry Russell (MCSN: 0-854), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as American High Commissioner to the Republic of Haiti from 11 February 1922 to 12 November 1930. During this period as representative of the President of the United States in Haiti, General Russell, by his energy, patience, firmness and tact, established harmonious and efficient cooperation between the treaty officials. His administrative ability, good judgment, and sympathetic understanding of the needs of the country enabled him to accomplish many outstanding works for the welfare of the Haitian people. His distinguished service as American High Commissioner has resulted in a great improvement of the political and economic conditions in the Republic of Haiti.