For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 2, 2005
Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense
SUBJECT: Order of Succession of Officers to Act as Secretary of Defense
Pursuant to the Constitution and laws of the United States,
including section 3345(a) of title 5, United States Code, and
notwithstanding Executive Order 13000 of April 24, 1996, I direct as
follows:
(1) In the event of the death, permanent disability, or
resignation of the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Navy
shall act for and perform the duties of the Secretary of Defense as
Acting Secretary of Defense.
(2) In the event of the temporary absence or temporary disability
of the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Navy shall act for
and perform the duties of the Secretary of Defense as Acting Secretary
of Defense. In these instances, the designation as Acting Secretary of
Defense applies only for the duration of the Secretary's absence or
disability, and does not affect the authority of the Secretary to
exercise during the absence, or to resume when the disability no longer
exists, the powers of his office.
(3) In all other respects, Executive Order 13000 of April 24,
1996, shall remain in effect.
(4) This memorandum shall expire upon the appointment of a Deputy
Secretary of Defense, unless sooner terminated by operation of law or
by the President.
(5) You are authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in
the Federal Register.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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