Department of the Army

Department of the Army, one of the three major components of the United States Department of Defense, was created by the National Security Act of 1947 to succeed the Department of War, which had been established in 1789. The department is headed by the secretary of the army, a civilian who is appointed by the president and functions under the direction of the secretary of defense. The secretary of the army is responsible for the conduct of all affairs of the army, including those necessary for its training, operations, administration, logistical support and maintenance, welfare, preparedness, and effectiveness. The secretary is also responsible for the administration of civil functions, such as the maintenance of Arlington and Soldiers' Home National Cemeteries, and for the civil works program of the Army Corps of Engineers.

Military assistance and advice are provided by the Army Staff, headed by the chief of staff, who serves as the army member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The chief of staff is a principal adviser to the president, to the National Security Council, and to the secretary of defense.

Various acts of Congress and executive orders have increased the scope of department responsibilities beyond exclusively military matters. Thus, the department now administers programs aimed at protecting the environment, flood control, and water resource development. The army also may be called on to provide natural disaster relief assistance and emergency medical air transportation service.