Commander-in-Chief
The president is the commander-in-chief of the U.S. armed forces. That means all of the military leaders report to and take orders from the president. The president performs this duty as a civilian, someone who is not in military service. What is the benefit of having a civilian who is an elected public official as the commander-in-chief? What might be some of the drawbacks?
Watch Video from 5/24/04 (5 min)

Chief Executive
The president is the chief executive, empowered to administer the laws and affairs of the nation. While the president does not make the laws, his agencies have the responsibility, and authority to carry out the laws.   Watch Video from 6/30/05