Which position directly follows the Secretary of Defense in the RTC Chain of Command?

In the RTC Chain of Command, the position that directly follows the Secretary of Defense is the Secretary of the Navy. The Secretary of the Navy is responsible for the overall management and policy direction of the Navy and Marine Corps. This role encompasses a variety of duties, including recruitment, training, and the administration of all Navy and Marine Corps personnel.

Understanding the chain of command is crucial as it emphasizes the structure and hierarchy within military operations. The Secretary of the Navy is not only a part of the executive branch but also directly represents maritime interests within the Department of Defense. Other positions in the chain, such as the Chief of Naval Operations, are important as well, but they serve under the Secretary of the Navy and focus primarily on the operational aspects of the Navy.