(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: General James E. Cartwright, United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, from 31 August 2007 to 3 August 2011. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Cartwright culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and his dedicated contributions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Marine Corps.