Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Resumes Duty After Medical Procedure
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recently underwent a successful medical procedure at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and has since returned to his duties. The procedure, which was elective and minimally invasive, was unrelated to his previous cancer diagnosis and did not impact his positive prognosis, according to Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder.
Austin, who is currently dealing with bladder issues stemming from a previous prostate cancer treatment, temporarily transferred power to his deputy, Kathleen Hicks, for about two-and-a-half hours during his absence. Ryder confirmed that Austin’s official schedule, including participation in Memorial Day events, remains unchanged.
The 70-year-old Secretary of Defense has faced ongoing health concerns since his prostate surgery, including a previous hospitalization and non-surgical procedure for a bladder issue earlier this year. The Pentagon has informed both the White House and Congress about Austin’s recent medical situation.