Under the provisions of Department of Defense 1348.33-M, the Secretary of Defense has awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal to Colonel John J. Sheehan (MCSN: 0-85321), United States Marine Corps, for exceptional service as Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense, from April 1984 to June 1986. Colonel Sheehan was involved on a daily basis with some of the most important and sensitive national security issued confronting the United States. He was relied upon to manage the Immediate Office of the Deputy Secretary and to ensure the quality of all written materials prepared for both the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Defense. Colonel Sheehan’s intelligence, dedication, attention to detail, untiring energy, and total commitment to excellence were instrumental in the efficient operation of the Office of the Deputy Secretary. His expertise as a staff officer and his broad operational background made him a valuable and trusted assistant. His ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently was enhanced by his superb administrative skills, which contributed to an environment of efficiency and teamwork throughout the Office of the Secretary of Defense. The distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Sheehan reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Marine Corps, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.