SUMMARY

On September 14, Ambassador of France to the U.S. Laurent Bili awarded General Jacqueline Van Ovost the French National Order of Merit, established by President Charles de Gaulle in 1963 that recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional service to France. General Jacqueline Van Ovost served as a deputy director for Joint Staff politico-military affairs for Europe, NATO, and Russia. Among other achievements, General Jacqueline Van Ovost provided a support to France after the November 2015 Paris attacks helping the two countries implement intelligence-sharing mechanisms to combat terrorists groups. She also played a key role in creating the Joint Staff position of French Liaison Officer, which still exists today and is essential to ensuring smooth communications between our respective Chiefs of Defense. For General Van Ovost, the message is clear: unity ensure strength and resilience.