Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III underwent a nonsurgical procedure on Friday night to address a bladder-related issue and temporarily handed over his duties to his deputy, the Pentagon announced.
The procedure, described as “successful, elective, and minimally invasive,” took place at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center around 6 p.m. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks assumed the functions and duties of the secretary of defense during Mr. Austin’s hospitalization. He resumed his duties at 8:25 p.m. and returned home, according to Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder.
This is not the first time Mr. Austin has undergone medical procedures in recent months. In December, he underwent a prostatectomy to treat prostate cancer, followed by a hospitalization for an infection. In February, he had another nonsurgical procedure for a bladder issue.
The secrecy surrounding Mr. Austin’s health issues has drawn scrutiny, with critics questioning his failure to immediately disclose his illnesses and absences to the White House. Despite these challenges, Mr. Austin has fully returned to his duties at the Pentagon and even resumed traveling overseas.
On Friday morning, Mr. Austin delivered the commencement address at the U.S. Naval Academy before meeting with Kenya’s president in the afternoon. The Pentagon also announced that Mr. Austin is scheduled to begin a trip next week to Singapore, Cambodia, and France.
Mr. Austin’s resilience in the face of health challenges highlights his dedication to his role as Defense Secretary and his commitment to fulfilling his duties despite personal setbacks.
