English: Secretary of Defense William S. Cohen (left) congratulates Gen. Wesley K. Clark (right), U.S. Army, after presenting him the Defense Distinguished Service Medal at a ceremony in the Pentagon on Sept. 24, 1999. The accompanying citation stated "...General Clark's leadership and personal demeanor created an atmosphere of cooperation within the North Atlantic Treaty organization Alliance that ensured accomplishment of the largest military and humanitarian operation in Europe since World War II. General Clark's diplomatic, political and military acumen, as well as his personal command presence, was singularly responsible for strengthening the bond of the North Atlantic Treaty organization Alliance as it conducted its first-ever offensive operations. He was the primary warfighting advisor to the Secretary General and the United States Command Authority. As such he provided sound, vital counsel to the Secretary General, the National Command Authority and to his subordinate warfighting commanders. General Clark's decisive leadership and sound policy decisions were clearly manifested in Yugoslavia's acceptance of the brokered peace initiative, which culminated in the complete withdrawal of Yugoslavian armed forces from Kosovo." Clark is the Allied Commander, Europe and commander in chief, United States European Command. Clark was presented the award during a commanders in chief and flag officer conference in the Pentagon.