March 2, 2025 | By C. Todd Lopez
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a directive requiring all civilian employees of the Department of Defense (DOD) to document their weekly work progress. Employees must prepare five key bullet points summarizing their accomplishments from the previous week.
Starting Monday, March 3, personnel will receive an official email from the DOD prompting them to submit their reports within 48 hours. Supervisors must be copied in these submissions, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Hegseth clarified in a video statement that this initiative aligns with recent directives from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). While an earlier request from OPM was initially put on hold, the DOD has since established clear guidelines, enabling employees to proceed with their reports.
“The Department of Defense initially delayed the directive but now requires all civilian employees to submit their weekly performance summaries,” Hegseth stated in his memorandum.
Employees who lack email access due to leave, shift schedules, or other circumstances must submit their reports within 48 hours of regaining access. Those without regular email access will coordinate with their supervisors to meet this requirement.
Hegseth emphasized that the information should not include classified or sensitive data. Additionally, non-compliance may result in further review.
Reaffirming the value of civilian employees, Hegseth stated, “Our dedicated civilian workforce plays a vital role in national security. Under President Trump’s leadership, we are refocusing on our core warfighting mission, and these reports will enhance operational efficiency.”
This initiative underscores the Pentagon’s commitment to reinforcing accountability, efficiency, and mission readiness across the civilian sector.