HEIDELBERG, Germany (Aug. 3, 2009) --Lt. Gen. Gary D. Speer, U.S. Army Europe

Deputy Commanding General, a native of Gadsden, Ala., was presented the

Distinguished Service Medal by Gen. Carter F. Ham, USAREUR's commanding general,

during a military tattoo and retreat ceremony in Speer's honor at Campbell Barracks here

Thursday.

Speer was honored for his 37-year Army career, which began when he was

commissioned in 1972 as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Infantry upon graduation from the

United States Military Academy, commonly known as West Point. Speer has been

USAREUR's second-in-command since April 2006.

He was presented a Certificate of Retirement from the Armed Forces of the United States

of America, and a Certificate of Appreciation from the President of the United States, for

his honorable service to the country. Speer also received an American flag that was flown

in his honor over 14 military installations in Germany, Italy, Romania, and Kosovo.

Mrs. Catherine M. Speer was presented the Distinguished Civilian Service Medal for her

exceptional service as a volunteer in numerous capacities for the Soldiers, civilian

employees and Family members of the United States Army, other United States military

services and NATO. Mrs. Speer was also presented a Department of the Army Certificate

of Appreciation for her support to her husband during his military career.