The Secretary of Defense of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal to General James E. Dalton, 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 Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, from July 1983 to June 1985. Under General Dalton’s purview, important advances were made in every aspect of Allied Command Europe’s military preparedness. His superb direction and flawless leadership enhanced significantly the Allied military forces’ peacetime capability. Through his tireless dedication and insightful appreciation for political-military aspects of international cooperation, he was successful in obtaining Alliance recognition of and support for military programs necessary fore the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s common defense. The distinctive accomplishments of General Dalton culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Air Force, and the Department of Defense.