Obama Nominates Carter as Next Deputy Secretary

By Lisa Daniel

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Aug. 2, 2011 – President Barack Obama today nominated the Pentagon’s head of acquisitions, technology and logistics to become the next deputy secretary of defense.

Ashton B. Carter, whose nomination is subject to Senate confirmation, would replace William J. Lynn III, with whom he has worked closely and who recently announced his resignation.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta issued a statement saying he is “delighted” that the president has chosen Carter for the job, adding that he has excelled in his current position as undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics.

“His rapid and responsive support to the warfighter, and technical and program expertise are transforming the way this department does business and acquires weapons systems,” the secretary said. “His work has helped ensure that the weapons the United States military buys are more effective and more affordable.

“He is also a top strategic thinker, serving during the Clinton administration as assistant secretary of defense for international security policy and holding top academic posts at Harvard University,” Panetta continued. “I look forward to having Ash as my partner as we drive solutions to the strategic management challenges facing the Department of Defense.”

Panetta also praised Lynn for his “outstanding career of government service.”

“Bill has led this department in preparing for new strategic and fiscal realities,” he said. “He has shaped key major acquisition decisions, and was instrumental in crafting a new space policy, our first-ever operational-energy strategy, and a landmark cyber strategy.

“Secretary [Robert M.] Gates and I have relied on his experience and expertise, and his service will leave a lasting legacy,” he added.

Carter was appointed to his current position in April 2009, and has been a leader in Pentagon efforts to run the department more efficiently and find cost savings. His was among several nominations for various positions that the White House announced today.

“These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience and talent to their new roles, and I am proud to have them serve in this administration,” Obama in a statement announcing the nominations. “I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come.”

Last week, Obama appointed Carter to the 11-member Government Accountability and Transparency Board, which he established in June to cut waste, fraud and abuse in the federal government.

In his two years as undersecretary, Carter has championed efforts to find cost savings in the budget, especially in acquisitions, and to redirect money to support warfighters and speed up the fielding of equipment and other needs to deployed troops.