Derrick Anderson (politician)

• Iraq War
  • Operation Iraqi Freedom
• War in Afghanistan

Derrick M. Anderson
Official portrait, 2025
Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict
Incumbent
Assumed office TBD
Awards	Bronze Star Medal Meritorious Service Medal Afghanistan Campaign Medal Army Commendation Medal (5) NATO Medal

Derrick M. Anderson (born August 4, 1984) is an American politician, lawyer, and military officer. He serves as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict since his confirmation on December 18, 2025. ^[1] He is previously the Republican Party nominee for Virginia's 7th congressional district in 2024 election. ^[2]

Anderson is a Former Army Green Beret and is currently served as a Lieutenant Colonel in United States Army. He previously served as a Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs) from April 9, 2025 to December 18, 2025.

Early life and education

Anderson was born in Wheeling, West Virginia and raised in Spotsylvania County, Virginia. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a BA in political science. He also received a JD from Georgetown University Law Center.

Military service

In 2006, Anderson commissioned as a second lieutenant in United States Army into the infantry. Anderson later graduated from Ranger School. He became a platoon leader in the 3rd Infantry Division in their deployment in Iraq. Anderson was selected for United States Army Special Forces where he later served as an A-Team commander. He deployed in several countries in the Middle East, including in Afghanistan. He was also the ground commander when 2014 Gaza Valley airstrike occurred and five American soldiers were killed in a friendly fire incident. ^[3]

USAF General Jeffrey L. Harrigian blamed Anderson for the incident, however, Anderson was later cleared and faced no military action related the incident. ^[4]

Personal life

In 2025, Anderson is married to his fellow Army Officer Major Margaret Romanin.

References

1. Harper, Jon (2025-12-19). "American special operations forces get new civilian overseer". DefenseScoop. Retrieved 2025-12-19.
2. Press, 7News Staff and Associated (June 19, 2024). "Derrick Anderson projected winner of Virginia District 7 GOP primary: AP". WJLA. Retrieved 2025-12-19.
3. "Derrick Anderson (L'19): Service and Sacrifice" . Retrieved May 23, 2025.
4. Whitaker, Bill (November 12, 2017). "Why were 5 U.S. soldiers killed by an American bomber in Afghanistan? - CBS News". www.cbsnews.com. Retrieved May 23, 2025.