Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Adm. Jim Stavridis, congratulates Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Bartelle after presenting him with The Defense Superior Service Medal. The DSSM is awarded only to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, after Feb. 6, 1976, rendered superior meritorious service in a position of significant responsibility. The DSSM is specifically intended to recognize exceptionally superior service, and to honor an individual's accomplishments over a sustained period.