secretary of defense
The civilian head of the United States Department of Defense and a member of the cabinet, appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. The secretary of defense works with civilian and military advisers to formulate American military policies and make foreign policy recommendations to the president.
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The secretary-of-defense nominee will take on the Senate—and the toughest questions might come from his own party.
Chuck Hagel’s Confirmation Hearing: Live Updates (VIDEO)January 31, 2013