Pentagon officials say that the Office of Personnel Management has given “provisional” certification for DOD’s new senior executive service performance appraisal system. Officials call the OPM approval an “important milestone” in the Pentagon’s effort to “attract, retain, and reward top talent.” The new SES pay cap will rise from $149,200 to $162,100. DOD’s 1,217 SES members can now “lead the way” for the department-wide National Security Personnel System performance-based pay system, said David S.C. Chu, the Pentagon’s top personnel official. How soon remains a question, because DOD’s shift to NSPS has come under fire from unions. (DR 11/21/05)
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
