The Defense Department's No. 1 priority is defending the homeland, said Rafael F. Leonardo, who is performing the duties of assistant secretary of defense for homeland defense and hemispheric affairs.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the Defense Department has started phase one of upgrading U.S. Forces Japan to a joint force headquarters.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day marks the day U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam was disestablished in 1975. That same day was when the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth traveled to Iwo Jima to join other senior U.S. and Japanese officials in commemorating the 80th anniversary of that island's major World War II battle.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum directing the realignment of the Defense Department's civilian workforce. 

Army Gen. Bryan P. Fenton, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, joined congressional leaders to underscore the indispensable role of special operations forces and rally bipartisan support at an event on Capitol Hill. 

During a joint press conference in Manila, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the U.S. and the Philippines have come together to work toward reestablishing military deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.