The Defense Department must steer through 'wasteful' sequestration cuts and continuing budget uncertainty as it looks to the future, new DoD Secretary Ash Carter said in a letter to defense personnel Feb. 17.
Carter, who was confirmed by the Senate Feb. 12 and sworn in Feb. 17, said he was committed to building the force of the future while working through sequestration – which imposes a "wasteful uncertainty and risk to our nation's defense."
"We must balance all parts of our defense budget so that we continue to attract the best people – people like you; so that there are enough of you to defend our interests around the world; and so that you are always well-equipped and well-trained to execute your critical mission," he said.
He said to win support from taxpayers the Defense Department must show it can make better use of every dollar it spends.
"That means a leaner organization, less overhead, and reforming our business and acquisition practices," Carter said.
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He said DoD must also be open to change in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world and must work hard to attract new generations of workers and military servicemembers.
"I will do that by focusing on the well-being, safety, and dignity of each of you and your families. I will ensure your training and equipment are as superb as you are. And I pledge to make decisions about sending you into harm's way with the greatest reflection and utmost care – because this is my highest responsibility as secretary of defense," Carter said.
The Defense Department faces turbulent times, including the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan, terrorism in the Middle East, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the intensifying threats from cyberspace, Carter said.
"Safeguarding America's security and global leadership will depend on another of my main priorities: ensuring the strength and health of you who make up the greatest fighting force the world has ever known – our soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, civilians, and contractors all around the world," Carter said.
