Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS)?

The role of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) is primarily to serve as senior military advisors to the President and the Secretary of Defense. They provide strategic military advice, coordinate military activities, and oversee military policy. However, they do not directly command field operations or troops; that command is exercised by combatant commanders in the theater of operations. Therefore, the statement that the JCS directs field operations is not accurate, as their responsibilities are more focused on advisory and policy roles rather than operational command.

The other choices highlight key functions of the JCS: advising the President allows them to provide informed recommendations regarding defense strategies, overseeing military policies ensures alignment with national objectives, and coordinating with international military leaders promotes collaboration and strategic alliances. These tasks reinforce the JCS’s advisory capacity while emphasizing their role in shaping military strategy rather than executing it directly.