An official website of the United States Government 
Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov

.gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

A lock ( lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Our Leaders

DOD's Top Leaders

The secretary of defense is the highest ranking leader in the department and serves as the principal advisor to the president, the commander in chief of the armed forces, on defense policy. The deputy secretary of defense is the second-highest ranking DOD leader.

The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is the principal military advisor to the president and the secretary of defense. The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is the next highest ranking military leader.

Leaders

Choose a leader below to learn more:
DOD Seal

Office of the Secretary of Defense

Top civilian defense decision-makers work with the secretary to develop policy, operational and fiscal plans, manage resources and evaluate programs.

Biographies

Professional information about senior Defense Department officials.

View All

Office of the Secretary of Defense

The Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) is responsible for policy development, planning, resource management and program evaluation.

Learn More

Armed Forces

The men and women serving in our armed forces have helped forge a sense of identity and unity among Americans, particularly during times of strife.

View All