Does the CJCS possess command authority over combatant commands?

Does the CJCS possess command authority over combatant commands?

• A. Yes
• B. Only in wartime
• C. No
• D. Only for domestic missions

Answer: (C)

Command authority over combatant commands does not sit with the CJCS. The President, as Commander in Chief, and the Secretary of Defense hold the ultimate authority to direct military forces. Combatant Commanders operate under that authority and have COCOM—command authority—to conduct missions. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, while the senior military adviser and chair of the Joint Chiefs, does not issue operational orders to those commands. Instead, the CJCS helps with planning, coordination, and advising to ensure unity of effort across all services. In short, the CJCS can influence and shape joint actions through advice and staff work, but he does not command the combatant commands.

Command authority over combatant commands does not sit with the CJCS. The President, as Commander in Chief, and the Secretary of Defense hold the ultimate authority to direct military forces. Combatant Commanders operate under that authority and have COCOM—command authority—to conduct missions. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, while the senior military adviser and chair of the Joint Chiefs, does not issue operational orders to those commands. Instead, the CJCS helps with planning, coordination, and advising to ensure unity of effort across all services. In short, the CJCS can influence and shape joint actions through advice and staff work, but he does not command the combatant commands.