George Little, Pentagon spokesman, announced last Wednesday that Erin Conaton, under secretary of Defense for personnel and readiness, will take a leave of absence for health reasons, reports  Andrew Tilghman for Military Times.
Jessica Wright, assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs, will be taking over Conaton’s responsibilities on a temporary basis, said Little.
The Personnel and Readiness Directorate supervises the DoD’s personnel apparatus and policies for recruitment, retention, salaries, and benefits.
According to Little, leaders of the Defense Department are wishing Undersecretary Conaton a speedy recovery and successful return to the service.
Conaton, 42 years old, took over the position four months ago. She previously served as undersecretary of the U.S. Air Force.
