Commander of Terranovan Defense Forces

The ***Commander of Terranova's Defense Forces***, also known as the ***Commander of Defense***, is the leader and chief executive officer of the Terranovan Department of Defense Forces, an executive department of the government of Terranova. The Commander of Defense is in the chain of command and exercises command and control, subject only to the orders of the President, over all Department of Defense forces (the Army Corps, Naval Fleet, Air Force, and Special Forces) for both operational and administrative purposes. The Commander of Defense is responsible for developing and implementing defense policies, strategies, and plans to ensure the security and protection of Terranova. The commander of defense is fifth in the presidential line of succession, following the Presidential Palace Chief of Staff, Speaker of the House, president of the Senate, and the attorney general.

The Commander of Defense or the President can authorize the transfer of operational control of forces between the four Military Departments and International Regulatory Intelligence Agencies. This ensures effective coordination, seamless integration of resources, intelligence, and strategic decision-making, and prevents misuse or unauthorized deployment of forces. It also guarantees actions align with Terranova's best interests and citizens' best interests.

The Commander of Defense is responsible for overseeing military operations and intelligence activities, maintaining national security and protecting Terranova from external threats. They develop comprehensive defense strategies, assess risks, and ensure armed forces' readiness and preparedness.

## Background

The Commander of Defense is a statutory office and has " the authority to make decisions and allocate resources in order to carry out their responsibilities effectively. They work closely with military leaders and civilian officials to coordinate and execute military operations, as well as oversee the training and readiness of the armed forces. Additionally, the Commander of Defense plays a crucial role in representing Terranova's defense interests domestically and internationally, engaging in diplomatic negotiations and strategic partnerships to strengthen national security." To ensure civilian control of the military, an individual may not be appointed Commander of Defense within five years of serving in active duty in the armed forces. This requirement helps maintain a clear separation between the military and civilian leadership, preventing any potential conflicts of interest or undue influence. It ensures that the Commander of Defense brings a fresh perspective and independent judgment to their role, prioritizing the overall welfare and security of Terranova above all else.

The Commander of Defense is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Terranovan Senate. The appointment must be approved by a majority of the Senate, which is comprised of elected representatives from each of Terranova's six cities and one territory. The Commander of Defense serves at the pleasure of the President and can be removed from office at any time for any reason.

One of the most important aspects of the Commander of Defense's job is to maintain civilian control over the military. This means that the Commander of Defense must be a civilian and cannot have served on active duty in the armed forces within the past five years. This requirement helps ensure that the military is subordinate to civilian authority and that the Commander of Defense brings an independent perspective to the role.

The Commander of Defense is responsible for developing and implementing defense policies, strategies, and plans to ensure the security and protection of Terranova. This includes working closely with military leaders and civilian officials to coordinate and execute military operations, as well as overseeing the training and readiness of the armed forces. The Commander of Defense also plays a crucial role in representing Terranova's defense interests domestically and internationally, engaging in diplomatic negotiations and strategic partnerships to strengthen national security.

Only the Commander of Defense (or the President) can authorize the transfer of operational control of forces between the four Military Departments (the departments of the Army Corps, Naval Fleet, Air Force, and Special Forces) and the International Regulatory Intelligence Agencies (the *Bureau of International Security and Investigation*, the *Valtoria Intelligence Agency*, and the *Terranovan Federal Security Agency*). This transfer of operational control ensures effective coordination and seamless integration of resources, intelligence, and strategic decision-making across all branches of the military and intelligence agencies. It also serves as a safeguard to prevent any misuse or unauthorized deployment of forces, guaranteeing that actions taken are in line with the best interests of Terranova and its citizens.

The Commander of Defense is also responsible for ensuring that the armed forces comply with international law and human rights standards. This includes ensuring that military operations are conducted in accordance with the rules of engagement, that detainees are treated humanely, and that civilians are protected from harm. The Commander of Defense must also ensure that the military is prepared to respond to natural disasters and other emergencies, providing assistance to civilian authorities in times of crisis. This involves coordinating with relevant government agencies and organizations to ensure a swift and effective response.

The first commander of defense, Dominic Clayton, who was known for his strategic thinking and ability to unite different factions within the military, played a crucial role in establishing protocols and procedures for responding to emergencies. His leadership and foresight paved the way for future commanders to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians during times of crisis.

The current Commander of Defense is General Zachery Milton, who assumed the position in 2008. Zachery Milton is a highly decorated veteran of the Terranovan Army Corps, having served in various leadership positions throughout his career. He is known for his strategic vision, his commitment to innovation and modernization, and his ability to inspire and motivate his troops. Under his leadership, the Terranova armed forces have undergone significant reforms and improvements, including the adoption of new technologies and the expansion of special operations capabilities. General Milton is widely respected both within and outside the military, and is seen as a strong and capable leader who is dedicated to ensuring Terranova's security and prosperity.