strengths in force capabilities as well as the effect of those deficiencies and strengths would have on national security objectives (Department of Defense).
In that same vein, the Chairman is also tasked with completing assessments of the capabilities of the United States Armed Forces as well as possible adversaries. The Chairman works with the Secretary of defense in identifying the strategic direction of the Armed Forces and their capabilities. Additionally, through consultation with the Joint Chiefs, the Chairman produces reports regarding an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of possible enemies. These reports are more relevant to the creation of the annual policy and Quadrennial Defense Review. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs
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Every two years, the Chairman must review the missions and responsibilities of each Combatant Command and provide recommendations regarding changes suggested in those missions and responsibilities. The Chairman must advise and assist the President of the United States as well as the Secretary of Defense on force structure and the assignment of missions to different commands (Department of Defense). Once those missions are determined, the Chairman must meet with the Combatant Commanders to determine a system of evaluating the effectiveness of each mission. Additionally, the Chairman must consult with the President as well as the Secretary of Defense on the priorities and requirements of the operations outlined with Combatant …show more content…
However, as shown through the responsibilities of the Chairman to the Secretary of Defense and the President, difficult relationships can often develop between officials in those positions. During the Kennedy and Johnson Administration, through disagreements highlighted in the Cuban Missile Crisis as well as the problems occurring in the Vietnam war respectively, a strain was particularly pungent. In the Cuban Missile Crisis, Chairman General Maxwell Taylor, who was only in his position for a few weeks prior to this conflict, argued for a surgical nuclear strike. Kennedy feared a nuclear strike would bring mutually assured destruction (MAD), while the Joint Chiefs believed the United States could fight the proposed conflict and win (Dallek). This event, followed by the issues which rose due to the nuclear arms race, caused Kennedy to become very distrustful of the Chairman and his