In this op-ed, Lt. Gen. Bertrand Toujouse lays out the modernization plans for his service, as France looks towards the era of Great Power Competition.
The Honorable James F. Geurts, performing the duties of Under Secretary of the Navy, received the French National Order of Merit, with the rank of Knight, during a decoration ceremony at the French Embassy in Washington D.C. May 11.
The secretary was nominated by French presidential decree for the award, based on efforts throughout his civilian career, including his time at U.S. Special Operations Command and as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition (ASN (RD&A)).
“Your leadership and commitment to the French/ U.S. cooperation has been crucial for many years,” said Lt. Gen. Thierry Carlier, Director General of the International Directorate of the French Defense Acquisition Agency (DGA). “France is grateful for your service and action and honored to award such a distinction to you.”