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 James Ernest Paschall, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Paschall distinguished himself as Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs, Headquarters North American Air Defense Command/Aerospace Defense Command; Commander, Fourteenth Aerospace Force; Vice Commander in Chief, Aerospace Defense Command; and Assistant Deputy Commander in Chief, North American Air Defense Command, from 21 May 1973 to 30 November 1976. In these important assignments, the forceful leadership, and the outstanding and dedicated efforts of General Paschall were significant factors in maintaining the effective aerospace defense posture of the United States and its Allies. His superb command ability, profound knowledge of aerospace defense systems, combined with unusual expertise, were instrumental in achieving a high state of readiness, and military competence of the North American Air Defense Command and the Aerospace Defense Command. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Paschall culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country, and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.