[United States Government Manual] [May 31, 1996] [Pages 194-199] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]Army Secretariat Secretary The Secretary of the Army is the head of the Department of the Army. Subject to the direction, authority, and control of the President as Commander in Chief and of the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Army is responsible for and has the authority to conduct all affairs of the Department of the Army, including its organization, administration, operation, efficiency, and such other activities as may be prescribed by the President or the Secretary of Defense as authorized by law. Certain civilian functions, such as comptroller, acquisition, inspector general, auditing and information management, are also under the authority of the Army Secretariat. Additionally, the Secretary is responsible for civil functions, such as oversight of the Panama Canal Commission and execution of the Panama Canal Treaty; the civil works program of the Corps of Engineers; Arlington and Soldiers' Home National Cemeteries; and such other activities of a civil nature as may be prescribed by higher authority or authorized by law. Principal Assistants The Under Secretary of the Army is the primary assistant to the Secretary. Other principal assistants include: the Assistant Secretaries, General Counsel, Administrative Assistant, the several Directors and Chiefs, the Auditor General, and the Chairman of the Army Reserve Forces Policy Committee. Army Policy Council The Council is the senior policy advisory council of the Department of the Army. It provides the Secretary of the Army and his principal civilian and military assistants with a forum for the discussion of Army subjects of significant policy interest and an opportunity for members to consult with other members on matters arising within their specific areas of responsibility. For further information, call 703-695-7922.