CHAPTER 1
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
ORGANIZATION
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Learning objectives are stated at the beginning of each chapter. These learning
objectives serve as a preview of the information you are expected to learn
in the chapter. By successfully completing the accompanying nonresident
training course (NRTC), you indicate you have met the objectives and have
learned the information.
Upon completion of this chapter, you should be able to do the following:
1. Describe the mission of the Secretary of Defense, Secretaries of the military
departments, Joint Chiefs of Staff, unified and specified commands, and
U.S. armed forces.
Alexander Hamilton wrote concerning the
national defense: “The rights of neutrality will
only be respected when they are defended by an
adequate power. A nation despicable by its
weakness forfeits even the privilege of being
neutral.”
In today’s world, no less than in that of
Hamilton’s, the United States requires military
power adequate to support our national security
goals. So, as Hamilton pointed out, this nation
must maintain a credible military posture. The
United States Navy has been in the past,
and continues to be today, an integral part in
this nation’s national strategy. National strategy
is the broad course of action with design to
achieve national goals in support of national
interest. We maintain U.S. defense forces
to preserve the physical security and protect
the political independence of the United
States. Key elements of our national security
strategy are deterrence, forward defense, and
alliance solidarity. Each requires maritime
power.
ORGANIZATION OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Performance of all functions of the Depart-
ment of Defense (DOD) and its agencies is under
the authority, direction, and control of the
Secretary of Defense (SECDEF).
The DOD is made up of the Office of the
Secretary of Defense (OSD), military departments
and the military services within those departments,
Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) and the Joint Staff,
unified and specified commands, DOD agencies,
and DOD field activities. The OSD and JCS
provide immediate staff aid and advice to the
SECDEF. These offices have separate identities
and organizations, but they function in full
accord.
The OSD includes the following:
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The Deputy SECDEF
Under Secretaries of Defense
Comptroller of the DOD
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