Defense

During a time of chaos, the next Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan brings his corporate style to America's largest bureaucracy

From his firm handshake, precise manner of speaking and efficient introductions, it's clear Patrick Shanahan is a businessman.

Before taking the No.2 spot in the Pentagon, Shanahan spent just over 30 years at one of the nation's top defense companies. People close to the former Boeing executive say his departure from the highest echelons of the corporate world was motivated by his father, a Vietnam War veteran and Bronze Star recipient.

And so, a little over a year ago, he left the aerospace giant, where he helped develop the 787 Dreamliner, and became the 33rd deputy secretary of Defense.

He often describes his job as the Pentagon's chief operating officer, and his boss, Secretary of Defense James Mattis, as the chief executive officer.

"The secretary has the traditional role of being, you know, like, the CEO, if we were talking in terms of business vernacular. Really, up and out," he said gesturing the directions with one hand. "And my job is really down and in."