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Office of the Under Secretary of War for
Personnel & Readiness

Personnel & Readiness

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We are on a mission to ensure a strong, adaptable, and ready force supported through exceptional policy, programs, and services.

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HON Anthony J. Tata

HON Sean O’Keefe

Leadership

HON Anthony J. Tata

Under Secretary of War for Personnel and Readiness

HON Sean O’Keefe

Deputy Under Secretary of War for Personnel and Readiness

Mr. Peter I. Belk

Mr. Peter I. Belk
Readiness

Leadership Picture

Dr. Steve Ferrara
Health Affairs

Leadership Picture - Mr. William G. (Bill) Fitzhugh

Mr. William G. (Bill) Fitzhugh
Manpower & Reserve Affairs

Assistant Secretaries
of War
&
Directors

Leadership Picture - Steven Erickson

Mr. Steven E. Erickson
Force Resiliency

Leadership Picture - Mr. Jeff Register

Mr. Jeff Register
DHRA

Leadership Picture - Ms. Ann Lee

Ms. Ann Lee
Executive Director

Leadership Picture - Dr. Merlynn Carson

Dr. Merlynn Carson
Chief of Staff

Latest News

Tennessee National Guard Sustains D.C. Safe, Beautiful Mission
8 Sept 2025

Soldiers and airmen from the Tennessee National Guard are delivering essential sustainment support to the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force, Joint Task Force District of Columbia, mission by ensuring guard members remain equipped, supplied and ready to safeguard the nation's capital.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Pfc. Ernest Prussmann
8 Sept 2025

Army Pfc. Ernest William Prussman fearlessly led his squad into battle as the Allies pushed into Europe to free the continent from tyranny during World War II. Prussman didn't survive the mission, but his bravery demoralized the enemy and helped several battalions move forward. For his actions, Prussman was awarded a posthumous Medal of Honor.

Trump Renames DOD to Department of War
5 Sept 2025

President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order today changing the Defense Department's name to the Department of War as a secondary title.

DOD Awards Yuma Elementary School One an $8,030,235 Grant for James D. Price Elementary School at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona
5 Sept 2025

The Department of Defense, Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, today awarded Yuma Elementary School District One a $8,030,235 grant as the federal share of a larger $10,037,794 project to construct a new James D. Price Elementary School at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona.

Nation to Mark Patriot Day With Tributes
4 Sept 2025

You have endured, and when you endure, character is developed, which leads to hope, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the graduating class of Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia, today.

Defense Health Agency Unveils New Online Search Tool
5 Sept 2025

With hundreds of military hospitals and clinics, dental clinics, veterinary clinics, research facilities and so much more, the Defense Health Agency footprint spans 44 U.S. states and territories and more than 10 countries worldwide.

Lead With Endurance, Character, Hegseth Tells New Army Officers
4 Sept 2025

You have endured, and when you endure, character is developed, which leads to hope, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the graduating class of Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia, today.

Air National Guard Medics Train Under Pressure for Real-World Combat Casualty Care
3 Sept 2025

Airmen assigned to 168th Medical Group, Alaska Air National Guard, engaged in an advanced, rigorous, combat casualty care exercise designed to sharpen their skills in delivering lifesaving care under hostile conditions at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, Aug. 5, 2025.

Trump Announce Relocation of U.S. Space Command
2 Sept 2025

During a press conference at the White House today, President Donald J. Trump announced that U.S. Space Command — one of the Defense Department's 11 unified combatant commands — would be relocating from Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, to the Army's Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Capt. Frederick F. Henry
1 Sept 2025

During the early days of the Korean War, Army Capt. Frederick Funston Henry chose to take the brunt of an enemy attack alone so the rest of his platoon could survive. For his gallant actions and self-sacrifice, Henry received a posthumous Medal of Honor.

Defense Secretary Honors Tennessee Police Department During Award Ceremony
29 Aug 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth honored a local police department today for being a recipient of the 2025 Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award during a city hall ceremony in Hendersonville, Tennessee.

PCS Task Force Holds Military Spouse Townhall
27 Aug 2025

Military spouses from across the joint force joined the Permanent Change of Station Joint Task Force for a virtual town hall, Aug. 27, to share their input on their experiences regarding household goods.

Hegseth Anticipates Full Review of Kabul Airport Attack Circumstances by Mid-2026
26 Aug 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he anticipates that a Defense Department special review panel looking into the circumstances surrounding the Aug. 26, 2021, suicide bombing attack in Kabul, Afghanistan, should be ready to present its findings by sometime in mid-2026.

Department of Defense Honors Fallen Heroes on Fourth Anniversary of Abbey Gate Attack
26 Aug 2025

On the fourth anniversary of the terrorist attack at Abbey Gate on August 26, 2021, the Department of Defense pauses to honor the 13 brave U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during the U.S. military's withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Army Housing Survey Results Inform Action Plans
25 Aug 2025

Army Lt. Col. Gayle Ryan, Delaware National Guard's general surgeon, is at the heart of the Kosovo Forces Regional Command-East medical operations at Camp Bondsteel. She oversees medical readiness initiatives and emergency care for over 1,500 troops deployed throughout the region.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Sgt. William Saey
25 Aug 2025

Army Lt. Col. Gayle Ryan, Delaware National Guard's general surgeon, is at the heart of the Kosovo Forces Regional Command-East medical operations at Camp Bondsteel. She oversees medical readiness initiatives and emergency care for over 1,500 troops deployed throughout the region.

Hegseth Announces Establishment of Mexican Border Defense Medal
23 Aug 2025

Effective immediately, the Mexican Border Defense Medal is established to recognize service members deployed to the U.S. international border with Mexico for Defense Department support to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in an Aug. 13 memorandum.

DOD Civilians Can Volunteer for Details to Southern Border
22 Aug 2025

Defense Department civilians can now apply for details of up to six months with the Department of Homeland Security to help support President Donald J. Trump's priority of securing the southern border.

Delaware National Guard Surgeon Leads Multinational Medical Operations in Kosovo
20 Aug 2025

Army Lt. Col. Gayle Ryan, Delaware National Guard's general surgeon, is at the heart of the Kosovo Forces Regional Command-East medical operations at Camp Bondsteel. She oversees medical readiness initiatives and emergency care for over 1,500 troops deployed throughout the region.

Task Force Forge Marines and Sailors Assume Southern Border Mission in Arizona
18 Aug 2025

Service members assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, known as Task Force Forge, assumed operational responsibilities last month from 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, known as Task Force Sapper,

Medal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Sgt. Robert O'Malley
18 Aug 2025

Marine Corps Sgt. Robert Emmett O'Malley embodied the Marine ethos of honor, courage and commitment. During heavy fighting in the Vietnam War in 1965, he was more concerned about saving the lives of those around him than his own. His actions led him to become the service's first Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient.

This Week in DOD: More Women Enlisting; Drones Dominate in Hoosier State; Guard Supports Law Enforcement in D.C.
15 Aug 2025

Earlier this year the Defense Department reported that every military service had met recruitment goals early. But what's also notable is that more women are joining the military now than in the past.

Army Reserve Soldiers Bring the Thunder in 'Global Strike'
14 Aug 2025

Approximately 7,000 soldiers from around the Army Reserve are training at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, as a part of the Combat Support Training Exercise 25, Global Strike, an annual exercise designed to prepare reserve soldiers for the transforming battlefield of the future.

National Guard Mobilizes 800 Troops in D.C. to Support Federal, Local Law Enforcement
14 Aug 2025

On Aug. 11, President Donald J. Trump declared a crime emergency in the nation's capital and vowed to make streets there safe again. The National Guard is now playing a big part in that effort, assisting both federal and local law enforcement personnel in enforcing existing laws and taking violent criminals off the streets.

Enlisted Recruiting Number Up Over Last Six Months, Official Says
14 Aug 2025

Americans across the country are enlisting to fight for the nation, Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson said at a briefing today.

PCS Joint Task Force Hosts Industry Day
13 Aug 2025

The Permanent Change of Station Joint Task Force met yesterday with movers, shippers and logistics providers during Industry Day to gather input on improving the Household Goods Relocation Program.

Army Marksmanship Unit Train West Point Cadets to Build Future Lethal Force
11 Aug 2025

Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York, recently received hands-on basic rifle marksmanship training from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit's Instructor Training Group, aimed at strengthening their shooting skills and preparing them to be lethal, combat-ready soldiers in the future.

Airborne School: What It's Really Like Learning to Jump
12 Aug 2025

So you're scared of heights, yet somehow you've found yourself in line to jump out of a C-130. Your mind is reeling with all the stuff you've been taught to land safely, but still, if you screw it up, it could mean your life. No big deal, right?

National Guard Task Force Mobilizes to Restore Safety in National's Capital
11 Aug 2025

President Donald J. Trump declared a crime emergency in the nation's capital today and vowed to make its streets safe again for both residents and visitors.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Sgt. James Mestrovitch
11 Aug 2025

When Army Sgt. James Mestrovitch moved to the U.S. from Europe, he didn't expect to return as an interpreter or warrior; however, serving as the former inspired him to achieve the latter. During World War I, he helped save the life of his commanding officer, which led to his Medal of Honor.

This Week in DOD: 200 Days of Impact, Fort Bliss Assumes New Role in Homeland Defense, SkillBridge Lets Service Members Keep Defending Nation
8 Aug 2025

This week marks 200 days since President Donald J. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assumed their roles as the top two leaders of the U.S. military.

The Purple Heart: America's Oldest Medal
6 Aug 2025

Did you know that the Purple Heart is America's oldest military award? In 1782, although the Revolutionary War was basically over and peace talks were happening in Paris, Gen. George Washington needed a way to quell the talk of rebellion. Congress was running out of money after years of war against England. Troops were hungry and unpaid and there was talk of mutiny.

Joint Training Refines Humanitarian Aid, Disaster Relief Capabilities
4 Aug 2025

Marines, soldiers, sailors and U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel recently performed training to refine humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities at Coast Guard Station Key West, Florida.

Medal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Pfc. Robert L. Wilson
4 Aug 2025

During the World War II battle for Tinian Island in the Pacific, Wilson gave his life so that three of his comrades could live. His selfless actions led to him posthumously receiving the Medal of Honor.

This Week in DOD: PCS Move Hotline Goes Live, Fort Hood Returns, AUKUS Deep Dive
1 Aug 2025

In May, the Defense Department acknowledged challenges with how service members ship their household goods from one duty location to another during a permanent change of station move and promised new changes would ease the burden. Now, the department has delivered on another of those promises.

PCS Task Force Launches Call Center, Delivering Answers on Military Moves
1 Aug 2025

The Permanent Change of Station Joint Task Force launched a 24/7 call center today to help service members, Defense Department civilians and their families with their government moves. Service members can call 833-MIL-MOVE (833-645-6683), email PCSCallCenter@mail.mil or visit the PCS JTF Spotlight webpage for support.

Coast Guard Celebrates 235 Years Protecting Nation's Waterways
1 Aug 2025

The Coast Guard was established as the Revenue-Marine, Aug. 4, 1790, when President George Washington signed a bill drafted by Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton, authorizing the construction of 10 cutters that would be part of the Treasury Department.

Army Chaplain Mark 250 Years of Ministering Soldiers
29 Jul 2025

The Army recently celebrated its 250th birthday — two and a half centuries of defending the nation since standing up, June 14, 1775. Not long after, on July 29, 1775, the Army Chaplain Corps was established to provide ministerial support to those soldiers.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Cpl. Sidney Manning
28 Jul 2025

During World War I, Army Cpl. Sidney Earnest Manning took charge of his platoon after his superiors fell during a major Allied counteroffensive. Manning survived the fight despite suffering several injuries. For his leadership and bravery, he received the Medal of Honor.

DOD Moves Forward with PCS Overhaul After HomeSafe Alliance Contract Terminated
25 Jul 2025

The Defense Department's Permanent Change of Station Joint Task Force is taking decisive steps to stabilize the military move process following the termination of its contract with HomeSafe Alliance, June 18, 2025.

Department of Defense Awards Atlus Public Schools a $49, 211,667 Grant for L. Mendel Rivers Elementary School at Atlus Air Force Base, Oklahoma
23 Jul 2025

The Department of Defense, Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, today awarded Altus Public Schools a $49,211,667 grant as the federal share of a larger $61,522,311 project to construct the new L. Mendel Rivers Elementary School at Altus Air Force Base in Altus, Oklahoma.

Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell on Medical Conditions Disqualifying for Accession into the Military
22 Jul 2025

To ensure the readiness and high standards of the America's fighting force, the Secretary of Defense issued updated guidance on medical waiver eligibility for men and women seeking to join the U.S. military. Under this guidance, some medical conditions may now not be waived, and others may now only be waived by the Secretary of a Military Department.

DOD Launching New Authentication System to Replace DS Logon
17 Jul 2025

Over the next 18 months, the Defense Department will replace the legacy DS Logon system, which authenticates users onto more than 200 DOD and Veterans Affairs websites, with a more modern and flexible system called myAuth.

DoD Releases the Annual Report on Civilian Casualties in Connection with U.S. Military Operations in 2024
15 Jul 2025

Today, the Department of Defense submitted to Congress and released the Annual Report on Civilian Casualties in Connection with United States Military Operations in 2024.

Recruitment Task Force Seeks to Capitalize on 2025 Enlistment Surge
27 Jun 2025

Just two years ago, the outlook for military recruitment was bleak. A 15,000-soldier shortfall — the Army's deepest gap since the draft ended in 1973 — forced commanders to trim training rotations and rethink end-strength projections, while lawmakers warned the all-volunteer force faced its most serious manning crisis in half a century. 

Medal of Honor Monday: Army 2nd Lt. John E. Butts
23 Jun 2025

After Allied troops landed in France in 1944, Army 2nd Lt. John Edward Butts and his unit faced heavy fighting as they tried to seize the continent back from German occupation. Butts gave his life so his fellow soldiers could accomplish that mission. For his sacrifice, he received a posthumous Medal of Honor.

NASCAR Driver Ross Chastain Shares 'Get Up and Do the Job' Motivation During Pentagon Visit
20 Jun 2025

A bustling Pentagon briefing room took on the hum of Charlotte Motor Speedway today as NASCAR driver Ross Chastain rolled in with his family — and the Coca‑Cola 600 trophy.

Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman, Sean Parnell on Implementation Memorandum for Permanent Change of Station Joint Task Force
18 Jun 2025

During the Civil War, Navy Acting Master's Mate Thomas Harding did his best to save one of his superiors on a sinking vessel. His brave actions earned him the Medal of Honor.

Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman, Sean Parnell, on the Memorandum for the Establishment of the Military Service Recruitment Task Force
18 Jun 2025

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has directed the establishment of a Military Service Recruitment Task Force to ensure that the Department of Defense (DoD) continues to attract the brave men and women needed to address existing and emerging force requirements.

Through SkillBridge, DOD Provides Boost to Southern Border Mission
12 Jun 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently signed a memorandum that provides additional assistance to the Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection divisions through enhancements to the Defense Department's own SkillBridge program. More..

DOD Launches Child Care Expansion Initiative, Provide More Options to Military Families
10 Jun 2025

Dependable and affordable child care is a big issue for military families, and it's a priority for the Defense Department, which has a number of programs underway to expand the available options.

Medal of Honor Monday: Navy Acting Master's Mate Thomas Harding
9 Jun 2025

During the Civil War, Navy Acting Master's Mate Thomas Harding did his best to save one of his superiors on a sinking vessel. His brave actions earned him the Medal of Honor.

Service Members, Veterans Gather to Commemorate D-Day
6 Jun 2025

Service members and veterans gathered in Normandy to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Operation Overlord, widely known as D-Day, honoring the pivotal Allied invasion that changed the course of World War II.

Navy Elementary School Rebuilt 6 Years after Earthquake
6 Jun 2025

The Sierra Sands Unified School District cut the ribbon, June 3, 2025, on a new 77,000-square-foot Richmond Elementary School at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California, restoring an essential academic anchor after the 2019 Ridgecrest earthquakes.

New Behavioral Health Training Program Helps Keep Warfighters on the Battlefield
5 Jun 2025

Last month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth paused in front of a ballroom of service members and industry leaders at Special Operations Forces Week in Tampa, Florida, and reminded them people matter more than equipment.

Last Week in DOD: Additional DOGE Savings, Strengthening VA Partnership, Homeschool Review
2 Jun 2025

Last week, the Defense Department announced the Department of Government Efficiency found additional savings, helping the department identify and eliminate waste.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Tech. Sgt. Yeiki Kobashigawa
2 Jun 2025

When Army Tech. Sgt. Yeiki Kobashigawa encountered enemy machine gun nests in Italy during World War II, he didn't shy away. Instead, he pushed the attack with a fearlessness that helped the Allies take the country back from the Nazis. Nearly half a century later, he received a belated Medal of Honor for his actions.

DOD Makes Plans to Reduce Discretionary PCS Budget by Half Over Next 5 Years
30 May 2025

In a memorandum published Wednesday, the Defense Department directed the military departments to look at how their services could reduce their discretionary permanent change of station move budgets as a way to increase geographic stability to families, increase department efficiency and reduce costs for the department.

Performing the Duties of Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Tim Dill Holds Off-Camera, On-The-Record Briefing on Permanent Change of Station Targeted Reductions Review and Personnel Policy Changes
28 May 2025

TIM DILL: Good afternoon, everyone. Good to see many of you again from yesterday and I appreciate that we're not on camera today. It's fortuitous. So we're here today to talk about permanent change of station moves, or PCS moves. PCS moves are essential to the Department's efforts to support operational requirements,

Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesperson and Senior Advisor, Sean Parnell on Permanent Change of Station Targeted Reductions Review and Personnel Policy Changes
28 May 2025

The Department recently directed the Military Departments to consider ways to reduce the frequency of permanent change of station (PCS) moves while continuing to accomplish the mission.

DOD Brain Health Initiative Helps Protect Service Members
28 May 2025

The Defense Department's Warfighter Brain Health Initiative aims to identify changes in cognitive performance to provide an opportunity for interventions to restore deficits and enhance cognition or "thinking skills."

Homeschooling Support for Military Families -Connected Families
27 May 2025

Executive Order (EO) 14191 , "Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for
Families," January 29, 2025 , underscores the Administration's commitment to expanding
educational choice for military-connected families. The Department shares that commitment.

Medal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Pfc. Jimmy W. Phipps
26 May 2025

Marine Corps Pfc. Jimmy Wayne Phipps was only 18 years old when he sacrificed himself in the Vietnamese jungle so his comrades could survive. The young Marine posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his valor.

Hegseth Directs Changes to Address Shortfalls in Household Movement System
22 May 2025

In advance of this summer's peak permanent change of station moving season, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the U.S. Transportation Command to change how the Global Household Goods contract is implemented in an effort to better serve military families.

Task Force Validates Successful DEI Elimination Throughout DOD
22 May 2025

A Defense Department task force has confirmed DOD's successful implementation of a department wide directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to eliminate all diversity, equity and inclusion offices and initiatives.

Military Spouse Survey Spurs DOD Review of Moving-Related Issues
20 May 2025

On May 16, 2025, the Defense Department released to Congress the results of the 2024 Active-Duty Spouse Survey , a look at the opinions and attitudes of active-duty military spouses conducted roughly every two years.

16 Military Hospitals Receive Leapfrog's Highest Safety Grade
20 May 2025

The Defense Health Agency has announced that 16 military hospitals received an "A" rating in the latest Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade assessment for Spring 2025. These high grades reflect the DHA's ongoing dedication to transparency and providing high-quality care to service members and their families.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Staff Sgt. Jimmy G. Stewart
19 May 2025

In the jungle of Vietnam, Army Staff Sgt. Jimmy Goethel Stewart gave his life to ensure the enemy did not further harm injured platoonmates. For his actions, he received a posthumous Medal of Honor.

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DOD Uses Voluntary Reductions as Path to Civilian Workforce Goals
16 May 2025

With two opportunities to apply for a deferred resignation and a hiring freeze in effect for the majority of its civilian career fields, the Defense Department is working toward successfully implementing its workforce acceleration and recapitalization initiative, primarily using voluntary reductions in force.

DOD Issues Implementation Guidance on Separation of Service Members with Gender Dysphoria
16 May 2025

Yesterday, military leaders across the force were issued guidance from the Defense Department on how to proceed with separating, voluntarily or involuntarily, service members with a diagnosis or history of, or exhibiting symptoms consistent with, gender dysphoria.

Transcript of a Senior Defense Official Background Briefing on Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness: Implementation Guidance
15 May 2025

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: Thanks. Good morning, everyone. Thanks for joining us. We appreciate your time. Last week, the Supreme Court granted a stay of the preliminary injunction issued in Shilling v United States, and that allows the Department of Defense to implement its policy concerning service members with a current diagnosis or history of or exhibiting symptoms consistent with gender dysphoria.

Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness: Implementation Guidance
15 May 2025

Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness: Implementation Guidance

Medal of Honor Monday: Army 1st Lt. Robert Waugh
12 May 2025

Army 1st Lt. Robert Turner Waugh died roughly one week after his hard-charging actions during World War II knocked out several enemy positions and helped break a German defensive line in Italy.

Reviewing the Department's Military Educational Institution Library Collections
9 May 2025

In his January 29, 2025 memorandum, "Restoring America's Fighting Force," the Secretary of Defense directed the Department to eliminate "any program, element, or initiative that was established to promote divisive concepts ... or gender ideology,"

Certification of Merit-Based Military Service Academy Admissions
9 May 2025

The Military Service Academies (MSA) are elite warfighting institutions with long histories of producing world class military officers. The Department owes it to our Nation, our Service members, and the young Americans applying to the MSAs to ensure admissions to these prestigious institutions are based exclusively on merit.

Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman and Senior Advisor, Sean Parnell, on Certification of Merit-Based Military Service Academy Admissions
9 May 2025

Today the Secretary of Defense directed the Secretaries of the Military Departments to certify their admissions are race-, ethnicity-, and sex-blind. Within 30 days, the Military Service Academies (MSAs) must confirm that admission will be based exclusively on merit for the 2026 admissions cycle and beyond. The Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness will oversee compliance with this guidance.

Pentagon Marks Public Service Recognition Week, Honors Civilian Workforce
8 May 2025

The Defense Department celebrates Public Service Recognition Week, observed annually during the first week of May since 1985, to honor federal, state, county, local and tribal government employees who serve the nation. This year, the Pentagon recognized members of its civilian workforce for their vital contributions to national security.

Public Service Recognition Week
8 May 2025

Statement by Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs and Senior Advisor Sean Parnell:

Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW) honors the important contributions of public servants at all levels of government. Celebrated annually during the first week of May since 1985, it provides an opportunity for the nation to recognize and thank this capable workforce,

General/Flag Officer Reductions
5 May 2025

The Department of Defense is committed to ensuring the lethality of U.S. Military Forces to deter threats and, when necessary , achieve decisive victory. To accomplish this mission, we must cultivate exceptional senior leaders who drive innovation and operational excellence, unencumbered by unnecessary bureaucratic layers that hinder their growth and effectiveness.

Defense Secretary's First 100 Days of Delivering on Promises
5 May 2025

Even before arriving at the Pentagon, Jan. 27, 2025, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made clear his vision for reshaping the U.S. military.

Just a day after being confirmed by the Senate, the new secretary released a message to the force outlining his plans. Charged by President Donald J. Trump to deliver "peace through strength," Hegseth said he'd accomplish that by restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military and reestablishing deterrence.

Medal of Honor Monday: Navy Lt. John J. Powers
5 May 2025

Navy Lt. John James Powers knew that dive-bombing ships was a dangerous way to deploy explosives against the Japanese during World War II. The maneuver went above and beyond the call of duty, but he wanted to ensure the success of his missions. Powers lost his life while using the tactic and received a posthumous Medal of Honor for his bravery and leadership.

Army to Roll Out Enlisted Space Ops Specialty
2 May 2025

The Army confirmed it will implement a new space domain-related enlisted military occupational specialty by next fall, the service's top space officer announced during a media briefing at the Pentagon today.

Sexual Assault Prevention, Response Key Contributors to Military Readiness
2 May 2025

The Defense Department's annual report on sexual assault in the military for fiscal year 2024 shows a clear connection between sexual violence and impacts on readiness in the uniformed services, DOD's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office's senior leader said yesterday.

Dr. Nathan Galbreath, Dr. Andra Tharp, and Lisa Davis Hold a Media Roundtable to Present the Fiscal Year 2024 Department of Defense Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the military
1 May 2025

MODERATOR: Good morning and welcome. Before we get started on today's on-the-record interview, I want to cover some ground rules. Today we will cover details on the department's release of the Fiscal Year 2024 Department of Defense Annual report on Sexual Assault in the Military. We are recording the interview and will publish a transcript later today.

Department of Defense Releases Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military
1 May 2025

The Department of Defense (DoD) released the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military today.

This year's report, which is required annually by Congress, contains sexual assault reporting data and provides an update on the Department's efforts to prevent sexual assault, enhance victim care and support, and improve compliance with policy and law.

Restoring Good Order and Discipline Through Balanced Accountability
30 Apr 2025

To maintain a lethal and ready force, leaders must be empowered to make tough
decisions, enforce standards, and restore good order and discipline through balanced
accountability.

Statement by Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs and Senior Advisor Sean Parnell Providing Supplemental for Service Members and Veterans Negatively Impacted by the Department of Defense Defunct Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Mandate
30 Apr 2025

Under the leadership of Secretary Hegseth, the Department of Defense has acted swiftly to support Service members and veterans negatively impacted by the Department’s previous coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine mandate.

Review of Medical Conditions Disqualifying for Accession into the Military
29 Apr 2025

The standards for accession into the U.S. military are high, uncompromising, and clear.
Young Americans seeking to serve in the greatest fighting force in history must be physically
and mentally capable of performing their duties in the harshest conditions.

Navy Midshipman Drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars
29 Apr 2025

Navy Midshipmen football senior safety Rayuan Lane III was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars, April 26, 2025, in the sixth round of the NFL draft, which took place in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Lane is the 19th U.S. Naval Academy graduate drafted by the NFL and the first defensive back.

Defense Secretary Orders Review of Medical Standards for Military Enlistment
28 Apr 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum , April 24, 2025, directing a comprehensive review of medical conditions that disqualify individuals from joining the military.

Statement by Jules W. Hurst III, Performing the Duties of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness on the Review of Medical Conditions Disqualifying for Accession Into the Military Memorandum
28 Apr 2025

High, uncompromising, and clear standards are a hallmark of the U.S. military and are essential to helping us remain the most lethal and effective fighting force in the world. To uphold these standards, and ensure that our warfighters are capable and ready, no matter the domain, adversary, or conditions

Medal of Honor Monday: Navy Capt. Michael Escotin
28 Apr 2025

Navy Capt. Michael John Estocin flew many perilous missions in the early days of the Vietnam War, and a close call in April 1967 didn't dissuade him from returning to the skies for combat. While he never came home from his last mission, he posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his bravery and devotion.

This Week in DOD: 100 Days of Success, Accelerated Retention, Bringing Back Discharged Service Members
25 Apr 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told young military leaders, April 23, 2025, that since January, the Defense Department has focused entirely on restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military and reestablishing deterrence.

Statement by Jules W. Hurst III, Performing the Duties of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness on the "Restoring Good Order and Discipline Through Balanced Accountability" Memorandum
25 Apr 2025

The Secretary of Defense has directed each of the Military Departments to immediately begin conducting a comprehensive review of their Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) programs and processes.

Defense Secretary Orders Additional Remedies, More Clarity on Covid-19 Reinstatements
23 Apr 2025

The defense secretary today signed a memorandum directing more clarity regarding the department's efforts to reinstate service members kicked out for not taking the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as additional remedies for those service members.

Hegseth Recaps 100 Days of DOD Accomplishments During Speech at War College
23 Apr 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth summarized the Defense Department's accomplishments over the first 100 days of his tenure this morning as he addressed senior-level military student leaders at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Vietnam Veteran, Heisman Trophy Winner Creates Illustrious 25 - Year Career
21 Apr 2025

Pete Dawkins has lived a full life as an athlete, combat veteran and business executive, but at age 11 in 1949, things looked grim for him when he contracted polio.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Capt. Daniel Inouye
21 Apr 2025

Army Capt. Daniel Ken Inouye's time in the military was just the start of a storied public service career that spanned more than half a century. During World War II, Inouye proved his dedication to the U.S. through battle. That loyalty was honored decades later when a review of his record determined he should receive the Medal of Honor.

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Honoring the Doolittle Raid: A Legacy of Courage, Innovation
18 Apr 2025

On April 18, 1942, a small group of Army Air Forces aviators changed the momentum of World War II with a single, audacious strike. Known as the Doolittle Raid, this operation — launched from the deck of the USS Hornet — was the first U.S. air attack on Japan's home islands.

Medal of Honor Recipient Dakota Meyer's Legacy of Service, Sacrifice
17 Apr 2025

For the Military Health System, readiness is a strategic imperative to ensure warfighter dominance, survivability and resilience, said Stephen Ferrara, performing the duties of the assistant secretary of defense for health affairs.

Singer Johnny Cash Served in the Air Force During the Cold War
17 Apr 2025

Johnny Cash's signature songs include "Song of the Patriot," "I've Been Everywhere," "Ragged Old Flag," "The Ballad of Ira Hayes," "I Walk the Line," "Ring of Fire," "Rock Island Line," and "Man in Black."

Fatal Drug Overdoses in Service Members Significantly Below National Average
14 Apr 2025

The Defense Department released a new report to Congress showing the number of both fatal and nonfatal drug overdoses among service members dropped by more than 40% from 2021 to 2023.

Military Health Care Increases Force Lethality, Readiness
14 Apr 2025

For the Military Health System, readiness is a strategic imperative to ensure warfighter dominance, survivability and resilience, said Stephen Ferrara, performing the duties of the assistant secretary of defense for health affairs.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Maj. Dexter Kerstetters
14 Apr 2025

At age 34, Army Maj. Dexter James Kerstetter was considered an old man when he enlisted to fight in World War II. His fellow soldiers called him "Pop," and they came to rely on him for survival and inspiration, especially as the Allies fought to retake the Philippines in 1945.

Military Met 2024 Recruit Contracting Goals, Plans for Repeat
10 Apr 2025

The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Space Force met their contracting goals for new recruits last year and expect to do so again this year. At the same time, military personnel leaders said they are undergoing transformations with an eye toward lethality.

DOD Welcomes Back Service Members Impacted by COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate
9 Apr 2025

The Defense Department is taking significant steps to reinstate service members who were discharged due to the now-rescinded COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Performing the Duties of Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Tim Dill - COVID-19 COVID-19 Reinstatement Policy
8 Apr 2025

MODERATOR: Thanks for joining us today. We had one update. This backgrounder is now on the record. You can attribute this information to Mr. Tim Dill, who is performing the duties of the deputy undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Steve Feinberg Issues Memo on Workforce Acceleration & Recapitalization Incentive Implementation
8 Apr 2025

The Department is expanding its approach to workforce optimization — broadening the aperture from right-sizing and structural efficiencies to also supercharging our civilian workforce.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul Smith
7 Apr 2025

Throughout his military career, Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul Ray Smith was known to be a stickler for the rules. That focus on preparation helped save the lives of more than 100 U.S.

DOD Task Force to Assess Progress of DEI Elimination
4 Apr 2025

A nine-member Defense Department task force headed by Jules W. Hurst III, an Army veteran who is performing the duties of undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, will visit numerous military installations, including military service academies, in April and early May.

Hegseth Keeps It Candid With Midshipmen During Academy Visit
4 Apr 2025

The Brigade of Midshipmen greeted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth April 1, 2025, when he arrived at the U.S. Naval Academy's King Hall in Annapolis, Maryland, for their noon meal.

Education Benefits Make Stronger Service Members, Better Military
2 Apr 2025

Within the armed forces, a variety of educational benefits are available that allow service members to both improve themselves and make themselves more valuable to their service branch.

Jules W. Hurst III, Performing the Duties of Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Statement on Guidance on Hiring Freeze Exemptions for the Civilian Workforce
2 Apr 2025

During the hiring freeze directed by the Secretary, the Department of Defense will continue to hire the civilians that support the lethality of the Total Force.

Face of Defense: Behavioral Health Tech Helps Keep Sailors Mission-Focused
1 Apr 2025

One of the Defense Department's core priorities is restoring the warrior ethos across the military. Ensuring service men and women are in good mental health is one of the fastest ways to ensure warfighters are ready and focused on the important missions that lie ahead.

Secretary of Defense Directed Review of Physical Fitness Standards for Combat Arms Occupations
31 Mar 2025

The strength of our military is rooted in its high standards – they are the foundation of our military's power projection. To ensure the U.S. military remains the strongest and most lethal fighting force on the planet, the Secretary of Defense directed the Military Departments to ensure their physical fitness standards support this enduring goal.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army 1st Lt. Brian Thacker
31 Mar 2025

When the enemy attacked, Army 1st Lt. Brian Miles Thacker knew the troops at his small Vietnamese firebase would be overrun, but he refused to let them get trapped.

Hegseth Orders Civilian Workforce Realignment in DOD, Reopens DRP
29 Mar 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum yesterday directing the realignment of the Defense Department's civilian workforce.

Hegseth Orders Civilian Workforce Realignment in DOD, ReopensDefense Department Nominees Promise Better Warfighting Tools, Improved Medical Care DRP
27 Mar 2025

More efficient and faster acquisition, better technology and military hardware, and better medical care to keep service members healthy were among the commitments made on Capitol Hill today by three Defense Department nominees.

Organization

ASD(HA)

Manpower &
Reserve Affairs

ASD(M&RA)

ASD(R)

Defense Human
Resources Activity

DHRA

Office Of
Force Resiliency

OFR

Office Of The
Executive Director

OXD

Latest Posts

RT @USD_PR_HONTata: I just signed up for myAuth, a secure, single login system for 200+ @DeptofDefense & @DeptVetAffairs apps. myAuth is ma…

RT @USD_PR_HONTata: It was my honor to administer the Oath of Office to a tremendously talented & dedicated group of leaders this week. The…

RT @USD_PR_HONTata: We're dedicated to righting this wrong. In my July 30th memo, I tasked the Services to identify and fix issues in the C…

In remarks at the ceremony, @DASD_MCFP said: "These extraordinary young people from our military communities that you see here before you ... represent the best of us, and ultimately they represent the sum of our endeavors — the future."

The National Military Youth of the Year award is a prestigious honor bestowed on military-connected teens who demonstrate leadership, service, and academic excellence. P&R's @DASD_MCFP was pleased to present the award this year. https://t.co/SURDa8qg1n