The Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness is delegated full power and authority to act for the USD(P&R) and exercise the powers of the USD(P&R) on any and all matters that the USD(P&R) is authorized to act, except in those areas where delegation of the USD(P&R) authority is otherwise restricted by higher authority or prohibited by law.

The Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense(P&R) shall advise and assist the USD(P&R) with all responsibilities in providing staff advice and assistance to the Secretary of Defense, including but not limited to Total Force management; National Guard and Reserve Component affairs; health affairs; readiness and training; military and civilian personnel requirements; language; dependents; education; equal opportunity; morale, welfare, and recreation; and quality-of-life matters.