The Defense Department has designated Richard Wightman to serve as the acting assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs following the appointment of Jessica Wright as the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, according to a July 11 Pentagon release. Wightman, a retired Army general officer, previously served as the principal deputy assistant secretary for reserve affairs. In his new position, he will serve as a “key advisor” to Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel on issues regarding the reserve components.
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.
