United States Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs
| Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs of the United States | |
|---|---|
Seal of the Department of Veterans Affairs | |
Flag of the deputy secretary | |
since March 29, 2025 | |
| United States Department of Veterans Affairs | |
| Style | Mr. Deputy Secretary |
| Reports to | Secretary of Veterans Affairs |
| Seat | Washington, D.C. |
| Appointer | The president with Senate advice and consent |
| Term length | No fixed term |
| Formation | March 17, 1989 |
| First holder | Anthony Joseph Principi |
| Salary | Executive Schedule, level II |
| Website | www |
The deputy secretary of veterans affairs, in the United States government, is the chief operating officer of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, responsible for a nationwide system of health care services, benefits programs, and national cemeteries for America's veterans and their dependents. The deputy secretary is the second-highest-ranking officer in the department and succeeds the secretary in the event of his resignation, death, or otherwise inability to fulfill his duties.
The deputy secretary is appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. The position was created with the creation of the Department of Veterans Affairs in October 1988.