This book offers an expert’s insights into one of the most difficult jobs in Washington DC. Of the twenty-one men who have held the post of U.S. Secretary of Defense ( SecDef ) since it was created in 1947, only half have served more than eighteen months. The first, James Forrestal, committed suicide soon after leaving the Pentagon. Seven if his successors were fired or allowed to resign gracefully after losing the confidence of the President. Many left frustrated and disappointed: the job has been called the graveyard of political ambitions . This book examines the unique challenges of this political office to learn why the failure rate has been so high. It will prove essential reading for political and defence professionals and students who want to understand the important role played within the American government by the person informally labelled The SecDef. It is essential reading for observers of the American political scene, and a textbook for political and defence professionals, and students.