The Pentagon is currently investigating the mishandled disclosure of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s illness.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin’s Chief of Staff initiated an investigation on Monday into the circumstances surrounding his hospitalization, the transfer of authority to his deputy, and the delayed notification of senior Pentagon leaders, the White House, and Congress. This 30-day review, mandated by Kelly Magsamen, aims to address the bipartisan concerns surrounding the secrecy of Austin’s illness and the subsequent delayed disclosures.
The Pentagon has faced criticism for the fragmented release of information since late Friday, when it was briefly disclosed that Austin had been hospitalized since January 1. He remains at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center due to complications arising from an elective procedure on December 22.
Magsamen, who was indisposed at home last week, was unaware of Austin’s hospitalization and intensive care. Her illness has been cited as a factor in the delayed notification to the White House, which was informed three days after the onset of Austin’s serious illness. Notably, other officials, including public affairs staff, were aware of Austin’s condition but failed to convey this information, breaching protocol for incapacitated senior officials. Chris Meagher, the top civilian official for public affairs at the Pentagon, and Ryder, the press secretary, were aware of Austin’s hospitalization on January 2, according to Ryder.
Magsamen has directed that senior officials promptly receive notice of the transfer of authority from Austin to his deputy, Kathleen Hicks, during periods of hospitalization or communication unavailability. Hicks assumed some of Austin’s authorities on January 2 but was only informed two days later that Austin was in intensive care. Austin resumed work from the hospital and reclaimed authority from Hicks on January 5.
The review aims to establish a comprehensive timeline of events starting from January 1, when Austin was transported by ambulance to Walter Reed. Magsamen emphasized that this assessment will enhance clarity and transparency in situations where authorities are transferred, ensuring timely notifications to the President, White House, Congress, and the public.
Earlier on Monday, Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, admitted that he knew about Austin’s hospitalization on January 2 and expressed regret for not informing the public sooner, pledging to learn from the experience.
In a coincidental development, the Marine Corps announced late Monday that Gen. Eric Smith, the commandant, underwent successful open heart surgery. Unlike the Pentagon’s handling of Austin’s case, the Marine Corps provided details about Smith’s procedure and its background. Smith’s surgery repaired a bicuspid aortic valve, which caused his cardiac arrest on October 28. He is reportedly in good condition, recovering at the hospital with his family.
Despite these events, the Pentagon has maintained its reluctance to divulge details about Austin’s procedure or the complications he experienced. The Republican chairman and ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee issued a joint statement urging Austin to disclose information regarding his health and the reasons for the delay in notifying the White House and Congress.
