Stewart leaving DOD job

By Tony Bertuca / December 13, 2019 at 4:29 PM

Jimmy Stewart, the official who has been performing the duties of the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness, has resigned from his post, according to a statement from Defense Secretary Mark Esper.

Stewart was confirmed in October 2018 as the assistant secretary of defense for manpower and reserve affairs, but has been filling the under secretary role since then.

Esper said Air Force Under Secretary Matthew Donovan will be the new acting under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness.

"I note that Jimmy came out of retirement, after having served 37 years in the Air Force, to serve his country again," Esper said. "It's people like Jimmy, the selfless individuals who put service before self, who are the backbone of this country. I thank Jimmy and his family for their service to the department and the nation, and wish him the best in his retirement."

Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett tweeted: "We thank Matt Donovan for 40+ yrs of dedication to the #USAF. His leadership will continue to be vital to taking care of service members across @DeptofDefense. The USAF will be in good hands with Mr. Shon Manasco, who will perform the duties of the USecAF."

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