The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Colonel James L. Booker, Sr., United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States while serving as Chief of Staff, III Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific from June 1998 through July 2001. Throughout this period, Colonel Booker’s personal involvement and perseverance were instrumental in the total mission accomplishment of III Marine Expeditionary Force. As Chief of Staff to two successive Commanding Generals, he was the catalyst in developing cohesion and pride within the staff of a large command characterized by many diverse functions and a complex command authority. As a direct result of his personal involvement, all aspects of force-level real-world contingencies and exercises were meticulously planned and flawlessly executed. Colonel Booker consistently provided a unique and personal brand of inspirational leadership that was in fact the focal point of continuity and stability with III Marine Expeditionary Force for three years. His sustained leadership and unsurpassed dedication and effort greatly enhanced the mission capability of the III Marine Expeditionary Force staff and all of its major subordinate commands. By his inspiring leadership, keen judgment, and sterling devotion to duty, Colonel Booker reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.