Oct. 21, 2022 DAF senior leaders amplify SecDef directives for reproductive health care Today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced that the DoD would ensure service members and their families can access reproductive health care within its authority and consistent with applicable federal law, in addition to clear guidance for health care providers to operate effectively.
July 24, 2019 Esper Becomes 27th Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper became the 27th defense secretary July 23 during an early evening White House swearing-in ceremony. Earlier in the day, by a 90-8 vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed Esper to serve in the office.