Washington Headquarters Services

Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) is a Department of Defense (DoD) Field Activity, established in 1977. It operates under the authority, direction, and control of the Director of Administration and Management (DA&M).

Mission and Background

The primary mission of WHS is to provide a wide range of essential administrative, operational, and facility management services to the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), the Joint Staff, various DoD Components, and other federal entities primarily located within the National Capital Region (NCR) and beyond. WHS was created to consolidate and streamline administrative support functions, aiming to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness in supporting the DoD's headquarters elements. Its goal is to be a premier provider of shared services, enabling its supported organizations to focus on their core defense missions.

Core Functions and Services

WHS delivers a diverse portfolio of services through its various directorates. Key functions include:

• Facilities Services: Managing and operating DoD facilities within the NCR, most notably the Pentagon Reservation. This includes building operations, maintenance, construction, and real estate management.
• Human Capital Management: Providing comprehensive human resources services, including civilian personnel management, staffing, employee relations, and workforce development.
• Information Technology: Delivering IT infrastructure, network operations, cybersecurity, and application support services to supported organizations.
• Security Services: Administering personnel security programs (including clearances), information security, physical security, and insider threat programs.
• Acquisition and Procurement: Managing procurement actions and contract administration for necessary goods and services.
• Financial Management: Overseeing budget execution, accounting, and financial reporting for WHS operations and supported entities.
• Other Administrative Support: Including functions like records management, directives and forms management, and various other operational support activities.

Organizational Relationship

As a DoD Field Activity, WHS is an integral part of the Department of Defense structure. It reports directly to the Director of Administration and Management (DA&M), who in turn reports to the Deputy Secretary of Defense. WHS serves as a critical support organization for numerous high-level DoD offices and components headquartered in the Washington D.C. area.

Social Media Presence

WHS maintains a presence on several social media platforms:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WHSGov/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/washington-headquarters-services/

Summary

In essence, Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) functions as the primary shared services provider for the core elements of the Department of Defense located in the National Capital Region. Through its comprehensive administrative, facility, IT, security, and operational support, WHS plays a vital role in enabling the Office of the Secretary of Defense and other crucial DoD components to execute their national security missions effectively and efficiently. The website whs.mil serves as a central hub for information regarding its services, organization, news, and resources.