The Secretary of Defense of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Defense Distinguished Service Medal to Major General James Louwein Jamerson, United States Air Force, 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, Joint Task Force (JTF) PROVEN FORCE, and as Deputy Commanding General, Operation PROVIDE COMFORT, United States European Command, West Germany, from December 1990 to October 1991. As Commander, General Jamerson demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision while forming, deploying, and directing employment of the 5,000 member JTF which conducted air, psychological, and special operations against Iraqi’s northern flank. Under his skillful guidance and supervision, this fully integrated force flew 4,595 sorties against heavily defended targets in Northern Iraq, inflicting significant damage without the combat loss of a single aircraft. He developed the plan of operation for the first airdrops of food and blankets within 36 hours of notification to deploy. He conducted on-site assessments and incorporated Special Operations and Air Forces into a comprehensive package of logistical and security measures. He completely incorporated the efforts of coalition nations who sent medical and security personnel and achieved unprecedented success in maintaining solidarity of purpose amidst wavering political odds. The distinctive accomplishments of General Jamerson reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Air Force, and the Department of Defense.