Describe the structure and the function of the U.S. Department of Defense.

Description should include the following major offices under the secretary of defense:

  • Office of the Secretary of Defense
  • Deputy secretary of defense
  • Undersecretary of defense for intelligence
  • Undersecretary of defense for policy
  • Undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology, and logistics
  • Undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness
  • Undersecretary of defense comptroller
  • Director, program analysis and evaluation
  • Assistant secretary of defense for networks and information integration
  • Assistant secretary of defense for public affairs
  • Washington headquarters services
  • Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs
  • Military departments
  • Secretary of the Army
  • Secretary of the Navy
  • Secretary of the Air Force
  • Joint Chiefs of Staff

Process/Skill Questions:

  • Which offices under the secretary of defense would be involved in purchasing defense systems?
  • What is the purpose of the Joint Chiefs of Staff?