Who exercises the operational chain of command between the U.S. President and the Combatant Commanders?

The Secretary of Defense serves as the key intermediary in the operational chain of command between the U.S. President and the Combatant Commanders. This role entails the responsibility for overseeing military operations and making strategic decisions that directly affect combat forces.

The Secretary of Defense is appointed by the President and is a principal advisor on military matters, ensuring that the orders from the President are executed effectively throughout the Department of Defense. By exercising authority over the military branches, the Secretary of Defense plays a crucial role in translating presidential directives into actionable military strategies.

In contrast, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, while being the highest-ranking military officer and a principal military advisor to the President and the Secretary of Defense, does not directly execute command. The Chief of Staff of the Air Force focuses specifically on managing the Air Force, and the Deputy Secretary of Defense assists the Secretary but does not act as the main command conduit. Thus, the Secretary of Defense’s role is central to the operational command structure, making the choice accurate.