The Secretary of Defense of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal to General Peter Pace, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service contributing to national security and defense, in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, as Commander in Chief, United States Southern Command, from September 2000 to September 2001. General Pace’s bold and visionary leadership, superb diplomatic skill, enormous personal energy, and unrelenting pursuit of the national security strategy in the United States Southern Command area of responsibility helped safeguard our nation’s security. General Pace skillfully guided the United States Southern Command in achieving the vital national security objectives of strengthening democratic institutions and governance, enhancing civilian control of military institutions throughout the hemisphere, and improving multilateral relations among the 32 nations within the theater. Concurrently General Pace energized the interagency effort to counter the flow of illegal narcotics into the United States and refocused the theater engagement strategy to optimally position U.S. Southern Command to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. By both direction and personal example, he set the highest standards of self-discipline, initiative, and dedication to excellence in every task. The distinctive accomplishments of General Pace reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Marine Corps, and the Department of Defense.

The Secretary of Defense of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal to General Peter Pace, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service contributing to national security and defense, in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, from October 2001 to September 2007. He provided military advice to the President, Secretary of Defense, Homeland Security Council, and National Security Council during an unprecedented period in United States national security affairs. In consultation with national leaders, he oversaw multiple and often simultaneous joint and combined military operations in the War on Terrorism, setting more than 50 million people in Iraq and Afghanistan on a path to freedom. As Vice Chairman, he chaired the Joint Requirements Oversight Council which became the principal forum for senior military leaders to address warfighting requirements from a joint perspective. As Chairman, General Pace spearheaded reforms to improve the processes for assigning U.S. forces and mobilizing Reserves. He advocated major changes in the structure and responsibilities of the combatant commands, and was devoted to improving the quality of life for Service members. He played a critical role in the 2006 Quadrennial Defense Review effectively reorienting military capabilities over the next 20 years, and he oversaw Herculean efforts by the Armed Forces to provide humanitarian relief abroad and at home. General Pace’s achievements in fighting global terrorism, improving joint warfighting, and transforming the military are emblematic of 40-years of selfless service. The distinctive accomplishments of General Pace culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Marine Corps, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.