Who serves as the principal military advisor to the President and other key national security leaders?

The role of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) is to serve as the principal military advisor to the President, the Secretary of Defense, and other key national security leaders. This position is pivotal within the U.S. military structure, as the CJCS provides strategic guidance on military operations, advises on military readiness, and offers insights on the use of armed forces in accordance with national security interests.

The CJCS is appointed by the President and often has significant experience and expertise in military affairs, allowing them to effectively communicate the Joint Force's capabilities and strategic assessments. This role also includes the responsibility to represent the views of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, which comprises the highest-ranking officers from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps.

The other individuals listed, such as the Secretary of Defense, while influential in defense policy and military operations, primarily manage the Department of Defense and are not primarily advisors on military matters. The Chief of Staff may refer to different contexts, such as the Chief of Staff of the Army or Air Force, which are service-specific roles. The National Security Advisor focuses more on coordinating national security policy and not specifically on military advice.