of Defense for Research and Engineering (USDRE). On July 1, 1986, the title, the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, was changed to Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition (USD/A). On January 1, 1990, the Defense Manufacturing Board, which had reported directly to the USD(A), merged into the Defense Science Board, adding manufacturing issues to the list of items of interest. Currently, the board's authorized strength is thirty-two members and seven ex officio members (the chairmen of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Policy, Defense Business Board and Defense Intelligence Agency advisory committees). The members are appointed for terms ranging from one to four years and are selected on the basis of their preeminence in the fields of science, technology and its application to military operations, research, engineering, manufacturing and acquisition process. The board operates by forming task forces consisting of board members and other consultants/experts to address those tasks referred to it by formal direction. The products of each task force typically consist of a set of formal briefings to the board and appropriate DoD officials, and a written report containing findings, recommendations and a suggested implementation plan. The board reports directly to the Secretary of Defense through the USD (AT&L) while, at the same time, working in close coordination with the DDR&E to develop and strengthen the department's research and development strategies for the 21st century. In recognition of the outstanding advice provided by the DSB to the department over the past forty plus years, the Secretary of Defense established the Eugene G. Fubini award in 1996 for Outstanding Service to the Defense Community in an Advisory Capacity. Chairmen Eugene G. Fubini Award Recipients For Outstanding Contributions to the Department of Defense in an Advisory Capacity See also Civilian control of the military External links Official website References American advisory organizations United States Department of Defense agencies