Pentagon Reports Defense Secretary Austin Hospitalized; Deputy Assumes Duties

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin hospitalized

Austin’s Hospitalization

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for symptoms suggesting an emergent bladder issue. He has transferred his duties to his deputy, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, while he receives treatment.

Austin’s Condition

Austin is currently in the critical care unit at Walter Reed. The duration of his hospitalization is unknown at this time.

Transfer of Duties

The functions and duties of the top spot at the Pentagon have been assumed by Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks. This transfer of responsibilities took place shortly before 5 p.m.

Rapid Notification

The Pentagon released a statement within three hours of Austin’s visit to the hospital, ensuring swift notification. This is in contrast to his previous hospitalization, where there were failures in notifying the administration and the public in a timely manner.

Austin’s Previous Health Issues

In early December, Austin was diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent a procedure to treat the cancer on December 22. He experienced complications from the procedure and returned to the hospital on New Year’s Day.

Transparency Concerns

Austin’s unannounced hospitalization raised questions about transparency within the administration. Republicans have criticized the Pentagon’s handling of Austin’s illness, and he is scheduled to testify about his failure to notify key government leaders.

Austin’s Apology

In his first news conference since his hospitalization, Austin acknowledged his mistake in handling the diagnosis and hospitalization. He apologized to his teammates and the American people for not notifying them about his cancer diagnosis.

Notification Procedures Review

The Office of the Secretary of Defense has completed a 30-day review of the notification procedures around a transfer of responsibilities. Austin has received the review and is currently reviewing it. The Pentagon is committed to being transparent about the review and will release as much information as possible.

Conclusion

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization and the subsequent transfer of duties have raised concerns about transparency within the administration. Austin has acknowledged his mistake and apologized for not notifying key government leaders about his cancer diagnosis. The Pentagon has completed a review of notification procedures and is committed to being transparent about the findings.

Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2024-02-12 10:43:00