Describe the U.S. military chain of command (i.e., organizational structure).

Description should include the following:

  • Commander in chief
  • Secretary of defense
  • National Security Council
  • Department of Defense
  • U.S. military branch departments: Navy, Army, and Air Force
  • Unified commands
  • Joint Chiefs of Staff
  • Commandant of the Marine Corps
  • Coast Guard and Merchant Marine
  • Department of Homeland Security

Process/Skill Questions:

  • What organizations are included in the U.S. military chain of command?
  • Who is the secretary of defense?