United States Department of Defense

The United States Department of Defense: A Pillar of National Security

Imagine a behemoth that oversees not just one but five armed services, the National Guard, and myriad agencies—this is the United States Department of Defense (DoD). With over 2.91 million employees, it’s no wonder this department plays such a crucial role in safeguarding our nation. But what exactly does it do, and how did it come to be?

The Genesis of the DoD

After World War II, President Harry Truman proposed creating a unified department of national defense in 1945. The National Security Act of 1947 was born out of this vision, establishing the National Military Establishment (NME). This act created various organizations, including the National Security Council and the Joint Chiefs of Staff—essentially laying the groundwork for what would become the DoD.

From NME to Department of Defense

The NME was renamed the Department of Defense on August 10, 1949, after absorbing three cabinet-level military departments. This reorganization brought about a more streamlined and centralized approach to managing our nation’s defense needs.

Structure and Operations

The DoD is composed of various offices, agencies, and commands, including the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Combatant Commands. The OSD manages defense agencies, including national intelligence agencies that operate under DoD jurisdiction but also report to ODNI.

The Role of the Secretary of Defense

The Secretary of Defense is appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate and serves as the head of the Department. They are responsible for overseeing policy development, planning, resource management, and more. The Joint Chiefs of Staff advise the secretary on military matters, with the chairman serving as the principal military adviser to the President, National Security Council, Homeland Security Council, and Secretary of Defense.

Military Departments

The DoD is composed of three military departments: the Department of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Each department has a secretary appointed by the president who heads it. The Joint Staff assists the chairman and vice chairman in discharging their duties. They have the legal authority under Title 10 of the United States Code to conduct all affairs of their respective departments within which military services are organized.

Unified Combatant Commands

The DoD is also composed of eleven Unified Combatant Commands, each with a broad, continuing mission. These commands include U.S. Northern Command, U.S. Southern Command, U.S. Central Command, and more. The chain of command runs from the president to the secretary of defense to the combatant commanders of Combatant Commands.

Finances and Spending

The Department of Defense is a massive spender, accounting for 3.15% of GDP and 38% of global military spending in 2017. By 2020, the secretary of defense identified $5.7 billion for line-item review and modernization. In FY 2017, it budgeted spending accounted for 15% of U.S. federal budget and 49% of federal discretionary spending.

Criticism and Challenges

Despite its importance, the DoD has faced criticism over finances. A 2013 Reuters investigation found ‘unsubstantiated change actions’ in the Department’s financial management arm. The Pentagon was also the only federal agency that had not released annual audits as required by a 1992 law, with reports suggesting it was due to disarray. In 2016, The Washington Post uncovered that senior defense officials suppressed and hid a report from the auditing firm to avoid political scrutiny.

These challenges highlight the need for transparency and accountability in managing such vast resources. As we continue to rely on the DoD for our national security, it’s crucial to ensure these issues are addressed to maintain trust and effectiveness.

In conclusion, the United States Department of Defense is a complex and vital institution that plays an indispensable role in our nation’s security. Its structure, operations, and financial challenges all contribute to its ongoing evolution and importance. As we move forward, it will be crucial for the DoD to address these issues while continuing to protect and serve our country.