Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned that troop readiness and retention is at risk as the Army’s chief stepped down Friday, leaving the military’s two ground combat forces without Senate-confirmed leaders for the first time in history.
has been nominated to be the next commandant, but is serving in an acting capacity now because he hasn’t been confirmed.
Both can serve as “acting” chiefs, but can do nothing that would presume confirmation. As a result, they can’t move into the main residences or offices, or issue formal planning guidance, which is traditional for a new leader. And officials have also warned that there are some authorities, including some budgeting powers, that don’t shift to acting leaders.
“We need these leaders in place to ensure the readiness of our force,” said Army Secretary Christine Wormuth, speaking at the ceremony. “And we need to end all of this uncertainty for our military families.” She noted that officers and their families are in limbo, waiting to see if they will move or not to new bases, states and job.
Smith addressed the issue in a letter to the force on Thursday, laying out the need for the Corps to continue modernization efforts and broader programs to improve warfighting. “Until the Senate confirms our 39th Commandant, this guidance will serve as our reference point,” Smith said."I cannot predict how long this process may take, but waiting is not an option for Marines, so we will move out as a team – just as we would in combat.” because he disagrees with the travel pay policy. And congress is now out on summer vacation, which means there will be no action on the jobs for weeks. the current vice chief, has been nominated to take over.
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