“ Section 1.⁠Succession to Act as the Secretary of Defense.
(a) ⁠ In the event of the death, permanent disability, or resignation of the Secretary of Defense, the incumbents holding the Department of Defense positions designated below, in the order indicated, shall act for and exercise the powers of the Secretary of Defense as Acting Secretary of Defense: (1) ⁠ Deputy Secretary of Defense; (2) ⁠ Secretary of the Army; (3) ⁠ Secretary of the Navy; (4) ⁠ Secretary of the Air Force; (5) ⁠ Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology; (6) ⁠ Under Secretary of Defense for Policy ”