[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 3, Volume 1]
[Revised as of January 1, 2006]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 3CFRJun2]

[Page 251]
 
Subchapter B-- Administrative Orders
 
Memorandum of June 2, 2005

Order of Succession of Officers to Act as Secretary of Defense

Memorandum for the 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

THE WHITE HOUSE,
    Washington, June 2, 2005.