(Press Enter). U.S. DepartmentofDefense Home News Spotlights About Legal & Administrative Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. John E. Hyten The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is the nation's second-highest-ranking military officer, responsible for overseeing joint military requirements, representing the military in National Security Council deputies meetings, and performing other duties as directed by the chairman. About Air Force Gen. John E. Hyten was sworn in as the 11th vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Nov. 21, 2019. He graduated in 1981 from Harvard University with a degree in engineering and applied sciences and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force. His military career includes assignments in a variety of space and nuclear operations. Full Biography TODAY'S EVENTS SOCIAL Follow the vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on social media. Vice Chairman Photos Get a glimpse of how the vice chairman spends his time: interacting with allies and partners and engaging with service members and families. View Photos On Flickr Joint Chiefs of Staff Established in January 1942 to expedite strategic coordination during World War II, the Joint Chiefs of Staff have been at the center of U.S. military planning ever since. Learn More Leaders Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. John E. Hyten DEFENSE.GOV Home News Spotlights About HELPFUL LINKS Live Events Today in DOD Contracts For the Media Contact RESOURCES DOD Resources Help Center DOD / Military Websites Insignia Agency Financial Report POPULAR Coronavirus: DOD Response DOD Expeditionary Civilian Workforce Artificial Intelligence DOD Space Strategy The Department of Defense provides the military forces needed to deter war and ensure our nation's security. Enter Your Search Terms Subscribe