United States Department of Defense

The United States Department of Defense is an executive branch department of the federal government of the United States charged with coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the U.S. government directly related to national security and the United States Armed Forces. As of June 2022, the U.S. Department of Defense is the largest employer in the world, with over 1.34 million active-duty service members, including soldiers, marines, sailors, airmen, and guardians. The Department of Defense also maintains over 778,000 National Guard and reservists, and over 747,000 civilians bringing the total to over 2.87 million employees. Headquartered at the Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., the Department of Defense's stated mission is to provide "the military forces needed to deter war and ensure our nation's security".
united-states-department-of-defense

Some of the key events about United States Department of Defense

  • 1945
    Dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, causing massive civilian casualties and long-term health effects
  • 1947
    Established as a unified department to coordinate the defense of the United States
  • 1950
    Conducted unethical human radiation experiments without informed consent
  • 1958
    Created the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to develop emerging technologies for military use
  • 1960
    Launched the first weather satellite, TIROS-1, revolutionizing meteorology and climate science
  • 1961
    Authorized the use of Agent Orange in Vietnam, leading to severe health issues and environmental damage
  • 1968
    Covered up the My Lai Massacre in Vietnam, where U.S. troops killed hundreds of unarmed civilians
  • 1969
    Developed ARPANET, the precursor to the modern internet
  • 1971
    Attempted to suppress the publication of the Pentagon Papers, revealing deception about the Vietnam War
  • 1973
    Introduced the Global Positioning System (GPS) for military navigation, later made available for civilian use
  • 1983
    Failed to prevent the Beirut barracks bombings, resulting in 241 U.S. service members' deaths
  • 1986
    Implemented the Goldwater-Nichols Act, improving inter-service cooperation and joint operations
  • 1991
    Successfully coordinated Operation Desert Storm, demonstrating advanced military capabilities
  • 1991
    Underestimated the health effects of Gulf War Syndrome on veterans
  • 2001
    Rapidly responded to the September 11 attacks, enhancing homeland security measures
  • 2003
    Presented flawed intelligence to justify the invasion of Iraq, leading to a prolonged conflict
  • 2004
    Mishandled the Abu Ghraib prison scandal, where detainees were subjected to abuse and torture
  • 2010
    Failed to prevent the massive classified information leak to WikiLeaks, compromising national security
  • 2011
    Played a crucial role in the development and deployment of stealth technology for military aircraft
  • 2020
    Launched the Space Force as the sixth branch of the U.S. military, focusing on space operations and defense

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

United States Department of Defense Latest news

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US Set to Boost Ukraine's Defense with $8 Billion Military Aid Package

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Tuberville Lifts Hold on Key Military Promotion After Private Meeting

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Zelenskyy to Tour US Ammo Plant Amid Ongoing Support for Ukraine

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September 21 2024, 11:36 PM  •  4556 views
Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

September 19 2024, 11:24 PM  •  332 views
Former Defense Chief Esper Joins Law Firm as National Security Advisor

Former Defense Chief Esper Joins Law Firm as National Security Advisor

September 19 2024, 09:26 PM  •  137 views
Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

September 19 2024, 09:26 PM  •  120 views
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U.S. Military Completes Withdrawal from Niger Amid Regional Challenges

September 16 2024, 07:48 PM  •  431 views
Legal Battle Over Military Academy Admissions Policies Begins

Legal Battle Over Military Academy Admissions Policies Begins

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NSA Unveils Crucial Role in Bin Laden Hunt, Launches Podcast

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Tuberville Blocks Army General's Promotion Amid Pentagon Controversy

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Biden's U.S. Steel Decision Sparks Potential Legal Battle with Nippon Steel

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Georgia Tech Ends China Partnership Amid National Security Concerns

Georgia Tech Ends China Partnership Amid National Security Concerns

September 6 2024, 09:42 PM  •  622 views
Renowned Military Historian Alfred Goldberg Dies at 105

Renowned Military Historian Alfred Goldberg Dies at 105

September 6 2024, 03:41 PM  •  604 views
GOP Threatens Deloitte's Federal Contracts Over Employee's Trump Criticism

GOP Threatens Deloitte's Federal Contracts Over Employee's Trump Criticism

Republicans target Deloitte, threatening billions in government contracts after an employee shared JD Vance's critical messages about Trump. Experts warn of potential abuse of power and chilling effects on political expression.

Business, Politics • October 7 2024, 10:06 AM  •  391 views
Israel Weighs Retaliation Options After Iran's Missile Attack

Israel Weighs Retaliation Options After Iran's Missile Attack

Israel considers various retaliation strategies against Iran's recent missile barrage. Options range from military strikes on key installations to economic sanctions and cyber warfare, each with potential global implications.

Politics • October 4 2024, 02:42 AM  •  672 views
Debunking Misinformation: Nasrallah's Ring Image Predates His Death

Debunking Misinformation: Nasrallah's Ring Image Predates His Death

A viral image claimed to show Hezbollah leader Nasrallah's ring after his death is actually from an earlier incident. The photo predates the September 2024 airstrike that killed Nasrallah in Beirut.

Society, Politics • October 3 2024, 01:39 PM  •  556 views
Trump Downplays US Troops' Brain Injuries from 2020 Iranian Strike

Trump Downplays US Troops' Brain Injuries from 2020 Iranian Strike

Former President Trump dismisses traumatic brain injuries suffered by US soldiers in a 2020 Iranian missile attack as "headaches. " His comments spark criticism and highlight the ongoing debate about military health concerns.

Society, Politics • October 2 2024, 09:55 AM  •  28 views
Trump Downplays U.S. Troops' Brain Injuries from 2020 Iran Strike

Trump Downplays U.S. Troops' Brain Injuries from 2020 Iran Strike

Former President Trump minimizes traumatic brain injuries suffered by U. S. soldiers in a 2020 Iranian missile attack, sparking criticism. The incident highlights ongoing debates about military health and foreign policy.

Society, Politics • October 2 2024, 09:53 AM  •  44 views
Congress's Crucial Role in Shaping U.S. Foreign Policy

Congress's Crucial Role in Shaping U.S. Foreign Policy

The balance of power in U. S. foreign policy has shifted towards the executive branch, but Congress is showing signs of reclaiming its constitutional role. Recent actions demonstrate its potential to shape critical decisions.

Society, Politics • October 1 2024, 04:06 AM  •  627 views
Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Forces Amid Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Forces Amid Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

The U. S. is deploying additional troops and fighter jets to the Middle East in response to escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. This move aims to prevent a wider regional conflict following recent events.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 10:35 PM  •  4804 views
U.S. Bolsters Middle East Military Presence Amid Regional Tensions

U.S. Bolsters Middle East Military Presence Amid Regional Tensions

The Pentagon announces deployment of additional troops and aircraft to the Middle East, raising the total U. S. military presence to around 43,000. This move comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

Politics • September 30 2024, 10:06 PM  •  46 views
Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Rising Tensions

Pentagon Bolsters Middle East Presence Amid Rising Tensions

US military enhances air support in Middle East, placing troops on high alert. Pentagon warns Iran against conflict expansion, responding to Israel's actions against Hezbollah leadership.

Politics • September 29 2024, 03:36 PM  •  1145 views
Israeli Leaders Reject Cease-Fire, U.S. Boosts Ukraine Aid, Sudan Conflict Escalates

Israeli Leaders Reject Cease-Fire, U.S. Boosts Ukraine Aid, Sudan Conflict Escalates

Israeli politicians oppose Lebanon truce proposal. U.S. announces $8 billion military package for Ukraine. Sudanese army launches major offensive in Khartoum. NYC Mayor faces federal charges.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 11:20 AM  •  73 views
US Set to Boost Ukraine's Defense with $8 Billion Military Aid Package

US Set to Boost Ukraine's Defense with $8 Billion Military Aid Package

The United States prepares to announce a substantial military aid package for Ukraine, coinciding with President Zelenskiy's Washington visit. The aid aims to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities before the fiscal year ends.

Politics • September 27 2024, 09:02 AM  •  27 views
Tuberville Lifts Hold on Key Military Promotion After Private Meeting

Tuberville Lifts Hold on Key Military Promotion After Private Meeting

Senator Tuberville ends blockade on Lt. Gen. Clark's promotion to Pacific commander following a private discussion. The move comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Defense Secretary Austin's hospitalization incident.

Politics • September 26 2024, 08:18 AM  •  12031 views
First Lady Unveils $500M Women's Health Initiative at Clinton Global Meeting

First Lady Unveils $500M Women's Health Initiative at Clinton Global Meeting

Jill Biden announces major funding for women's health research at Clinton Global Initiative. The event also addresses Sudan's humanitarian crisis and features global leaders discussing pressing issues.

Society, Politics, Science • September 23 2024, 10:16 PM  •  5610 views
U.S. Bolsters Middle East Forces Amid Rising Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

U.S. Bolsters Middle East Forces Amid Rising Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

The Pentagon announces deployment of additional troops to the Middle East as tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah. Naval movements and potential carrier redeployments highlight U.S. readiness in the region.

Politics • September 23 2024, 07:18 PM  •  720 views
WWII Airman's Remains Identified 80 Years After Kassel Mission Tragedy

WWII Airman's Remains Identified 80 Years After Kassel Mission Tragedy

Staff Sgt. John A. Tarbert's remains have been identified 80 years after his B-24 bomber was shot down during WWII. The discovery brings closure to his son and sheds light on the psychological toll of aerial combat.

Society, Culture • September 22 2024, 12:04 PM  •  1124 views
Zelenskyy to Tour US Ammo Plant Amid Ongoing Support for Ukraine

Zelenskyy to Tour US Ammo Plant Amid Ongoing Support for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy plans US visit, including tour of crucial ammunition factory. Trip aims to bolster support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression, highlighting US commitment.

Economics, Politics • September 21 2024, 11:36 PM  •  4556 views
Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

Israel Alerts US of Lebanon Operation as Hezbollah Devices Explode

Israel informed the US of a planned Lebanon operation, followed by explosions of Hezbollah communication devices. Multiple high-level calls ensued amid rising regional tensions.

Society, Politics • September 19 2024, 11:24 PM  •  332 views
Former Defense Chief Esper Joins Law Firm as National Security Advisor

Former Defense Chief Esper Joins Law Firm as National Security Advisor

Mark Esper, ex-U. S. Defense Secretary and Trump critic, becomes senior adviser at Squire Patton Boggs. He aims to address rising national security challenges for corporate leaders in a turbulent geopolitical climate.

Business, Politics • September 19 2024, 09:26 PM  •  137 views
Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

Pentagon: No Military Shift in Middle East Amid Lebanon Attacks

U. S. maintains current military posture in Middle East despite recent attacks in Lebanon. Pentagon emphasizes desire to reduce regional tensions as Gaza ceasefire efforts continue.

Society, Politics • September 19 2024, 09:26 PM  •  120 views
U.S. Lawmakers Push to Renew Global Fragility Act Amid African Security Concerns

U.S. Lawmakers Push to Renew Global Fragility Act Amid African Security Concerns

Bipartisan effort to reauthorize foreign aid bill aims to prevent state failures and coups in Africa. Critics call for improved implementation and increased monitoring of the Global Fragility Act's programs.

Society, Politics • September 18 2024, 02:06 PM  •  6730 views
U.S. Military Completes Withdrawal from Niger Amid Regional Challenges

U.S. Military Completes Withdrawal from Niger Amid Regional Challenges

The U. S. military has finalized its withdrawal from Niger, following orders from the country's ruling junta. This marks a significant shift in America's counterterrorism strategy in the Sahel region.

Politics • September 16 2024, 07:48 PM  •  431 views
Legal Battle Over Military Academy Admissions Policies Begins

Legal Battle Over Military Academy Admissions Policies Begins

A trial challenging affirmative action at the U. S. Naval Academy commences, following a Supreme Court ban on race-conscious college admissions. The case could impact military diversity efforts.

Society, Politics • September 16 2024, 12:03 PM  •  60 views
Historic Capitol Hill Home with Hidden Pool Listed for $3.25 Million

Historic Capitol Hill Home with Hidden Pool Listed for $3.25 Million

A Colonial Revival house in Capitol Hill, featuring one of the neighborhood's largest residential pools, is on the market. The property boasts a rich history, extensive renovations, and unique amenities.

Society, Culture • September 13 2024, 09:14 AM  •  632 views
U.S. Navy Ends Dual Carrier Presence in Middle East as USS Theodore Roosevelt Departs

U.S. Navy Ends Dual Carrier Presence in Middle East as USS Theodore Roosevelt Departs

The Pentagon concludes its rare dual aircraft carrier deployment in the Middle East as USS Theodore Roosevelt heads home. This shift comes amidst ongoing regional tensions and naval rotations.

Politics • September 12 2024, 12:33 AM  •  621 views
NSA Unveils Crucial Role in Bin Laden Hunt, Launches Podcast

NSA Unveils Crucial Role in Bin Laden Hunt, Launches Podcast

The National Security Agency reveals its pivotal contributions to locating Osama bin Laden, marking a shift towards transparency. A new podcast and exclusive interviews shed light on the agency's secretive operations.

Society, Politics, Science • September 11 2024, 01:50 PM  •  400 views
North Carolina Court Allows Kennedy's Ballot Removal, Michigan Denies

North Carolina Court Allows Kennedy's Ballot Removal, Michigan Denies

North Carolina's Supreme Court approves Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s ballot removal, while Michigan rejects it. The decision impacts election logistics and costs in North Carolina, with potential delays in ballot distribution.

Society, Politics • September 10 2024, 08:16 AM  •  498 views
Tuberville Blocks Army General's Promotion Amid Pentagon Controversy

Tuberville Blocks Army General's Promotion Amid Pentagon Controversy

Senator Tommy Tuberville halts Lt. Gen. Ronald P. Clark's promotion to Pacific commander, citing concerns over Defense Secretary Austin's hospitalization incident. The move reignites debate on military appointments and transparency.

Politics • September 10 2024, 12:00 AM  •  992 views
Biden's U.S. Steel Decision Sparks Potential Legal Battle with Nippon Steel

Biden's U.S. Steel Decision Sparks Potential Legal Battle with Nippon Steel

President Biden's move to block Nippon Steel's acquisition of U. S. Steel faces potential legal challenges. The decision, citing national security concerns, has raised questions about political motivations and impact on U.S.-Japan relations.

Business, Economics, Politics • September 8 2024, 10:06 AM  •  476 views
Georgia Tech Ends China Partnership Amid National Security Concerns

Georgia Tech Ends China Partnership Amid National Security Concerns

Georgia Tech terminates collaboration with blacklisted Tianjin University in China due to national security concerns and pending legislation. The decision impacts current students and future global experiences.

Politics, Science • September 6 2024, 09:42 PM  •  622 views
Renowned Military Historian Alfred Goldberg Dies at 105

Renowned Military Historian Alfred Goldberg Dies at 105

Alfred Goldberg, a prominent U. S. military historian who served on the Warren Commission and documented the Pentagon's 9/11 response, has passed away at 105. His career spanned seven decades of American military history.

Society, Politics • September 6 2024, 03:41 PM  •  604 views
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