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Lloyd Austin
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, official portrait, 2023.jpg
Official portrait, 2023
28th United States Secretary of Defense
In office
January 22, 2021 – January 20, 2025
President Joe Biden
Deputy
Preceded by Mark Esper
Succeeded by Pete Hegseth
12th Commander of United States Central Command
In office
March 22, 2013 – March 30, 2016
President Barack Obama
Preceded by Jim Mattis
Succeeded by Joseph Votel
33rd Vice Chief of Staff of the Army
In office
February 8, 2012 – March 8, 2013
President Barack Obama
Preceded by Peter W. Chiarelli
Succeeded by John F. Campbell
40th Director of the Joint Staff
In office
August 9, 2009 – June 30, 2010
President Barack Obama
Preceded by Stanley A. McChrystal
Succeeded by William E. Gortney
Personal details
Born
Lloyd James Austin III

(1953-08-08) August 8, 1953 (age 71)
Mobile, Alabama, U.S.
Spouse
Charlene Banner
(m. 1980)
Education
Signature
Military service
Allegiance United States
Branch/service United States Army
Years of service 1975–2016
Rank General
Commands
  • United States Central Command
  • Vice Chief of Staff of the Army
  • United States Forces – Iraq
  • Multi-National Corps – Iraq
  • XVIII Airborne Corps
  • 10th Mountain Division
  • 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division
  • 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment
Battles/wars
Awards Full list

Lloyd James Austin III (born August 8, 1953) is a retired United States Army general. He served as the 28th United States secretary of defense from 2021 to 2025.

Before he retired from the military in 2016, Austin was the 12th commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM). He also served as the 33rd vice chief of staff of the Army. He was also the commander of United States Forces – Iraq. Lloyd Austin is the first African American to hold each of these important positions. After leaving the military, he joined the boards of several companies. On January 22, 2021, he became the Secretary of Defense, a top leader for the U.S. military.

Austin is known for leading troops in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan at different high ranks. He was the first African American to command a division, corps, and field army in combat. He received the Silver Star, a high award for bravery, for his actions during the Iraq invasion.

Early Life and Education

Lloyd James Austin III was born on August 8, 1953, in Mobile, Alabama. He grew up in Thomasville, Georgia. In 1975, he graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a science degree. While at West Point, he played rugby and ran track.

Later, he earned a master's degree in education from Auburn University in 1986. He also earned a Master of Business Administration from Webster University in 1989. He completed training at several important Army schools, including the Army War College.

Military Career

Colonel Lloyd Austin as a commander of the 3rd Brigade, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment at a Tactical Operations Center
Colonel Lloyd Austin in 1998

In June 1975, Austin became a second lieutenant in the Infantry after graduating from West Point. His early assignments included serving in Germany and with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. He also worked as an operations officer for Army recruiting in Indianapolis.

After more training, he joined the 10th Mountain Division in New York. In 1993, he returned to the 82nd Airborne Division to command the 2nd Battalion (Airborne), 505th Infantry.

Leading in Combat

Brigadier General Lloyd Austin converse with Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld
Austin in a meeting with Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, Lieutenant General David Barno, and U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad in Kandahar, Afghanistan in 2003

In 2001, Austin became Assistant Division Commander for the 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized). He helped lead the division's invasion of Iraq in March 2003. He was awarded a Silver Star for his bravery during this invasion.

From 2003 to 2005, Austin was the Commanding General of the 10th Mountain Division during the War in Afghanistan. He was the first African American to lead a U.S. Army division in combat.

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Austin during the Iraq War on September 11, 2007

In 2006, Austin was promoted to lieutenant general and took command of the XVIII Airborne Corps. In 2008, he became the second-highest ranking commander in Iraq, leading the Multi-National Corps—Iraq (MNC-I). He was the first African American general to lead a corps-sized group in combat. He managed the withdrawal of forces from Iraq while ensuring progress continued.

Austin then became the Director of the Joint Staff in 2009. This role helped him become more widely known in the military.

Top Military Leadership Roles

End of mission ceremony DVIDS500735
General Lloyd Austin, commander of United States Forces-Iraq with General James Mattis (left), commander of United States Central Command, and CSM Joseph R. Allen (right), during the United States Forces-Iraq end of mission ceremony on December 15, 2011. Both generals would later serve as defense secretaries.

On September 1, 2010, Austin was promoted to general, becoming the Army's 200th four-star general. He then became the Commanding General of United States Forces – Iraq (USF-I). He was the first African American to command an entire theater of war. His mission was to advise and train the Iraqi Armed Forces.

Austin oversaw the end of combat operations in Iraq and the shift to stability operations. He managed the careful withdrawal of about 50,000 U.S. service members by the end of 2011.

In December 2011, Austin was chosen to be the Vice Chief of Staff of the United States Army (VCSA). He started this role in January 2012. As VCSA, he helped manage the Army's budget and staff. He also worked to improve mental health support for soldiers.

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General Lloyd Austin with President Barack Obama at MacDill Air Force Base, September 17, 2014

Austin became the commander of CENTCOM in March 2013. In this role, he oversaw all U.S. troops and major military operations in the Middle East, Central, and South Asia. This area included 20 countries like Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.

During his time at CENTCOM, Austin advised the president and other leaders on challenges in the region. He directed U.S. military responses to many crises. These included the rise of ISIL (also known as ISIS) in Iraq and Syria.

Lt. Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr. with Gen. Lloyd Austin during Air Forces Central Command change of command ceremony
General Lloyd Austin with Lieutenant General Charles Q. Brown Jr. during the Air Forces Central Command change of command ceremony at Shaw Air Force Base, June 29, 2015

After ISIL took control of Mosul in June 2014, Austin led the plan to fight ISIL in Iraq and Syria. This plan was called Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR). This effort involved many airstrikes against ISIL targets. By 2017, ISIL had lost most of the territory they once controlled.

General Lloyd James Austin III, 2016
General Austin in 2016

Austin retired from the military on April 5, 2016. He said he was very proud of what the troops under his command had achieved.

Private Sector Work

After retiring from the military, Austin joined the boards of several companies. These included Raytheon Technologies, a military contractor, Nucor, and Tenet Healthcare. He also worked with a consulting firm and an investment company.

Secretary of Defense (2021–2025)

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Austin being sworn in as secretary of defense at the Pentagon on January 22, 2021

In December 2020, President-elect Joe Biden nominated Austin to be the Secretary of Defense. Biden trusted Austin from their time working together when Austin was CENTCOM commander. To become Secretary of Defense, Austin needed a special approval from Congress because he had not been retired from the military for seven years. Congress approved this waiver.

On January 22, 2021, the Senate confirmed Austin by a vote of 93–2. He was sworn in later that day, becoming the first African American Secretary of Defense.

Key Priorities

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U.S. secretary of defense Lloyd Austin with U.S. president Joe Biden at the Pentagon on February 10, 2021

When Austin became Secretary of Defense, he announced three main priorities:

  • Defending the Nation: Making sure the U.S. is safe from threats.
  • Taking care of our people: Supporting military members and their families.
  • Succeeding through teamwork: Working well with others inside and outside the military.

He also focused on the COVID-19 pandemic within the military. He encouraged service members to get vaccinated and took the vaccine himself to show it was safe.

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Austin with Indonesian defense minister Prabowo Subianto in Manama, Bahrain on November 20, 2021

Austin also worked to strengthen U.S. deterrence, especially against challenges from countries like China and Russia. He aimed to build a strong military and work with allies.

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Austin speaks to Department of Defense personnel in February 2021.

Hospitalization and Transparency

In January 2024, Austin was hospitalized for a medical procedure. The Department of Defense did not immediately tell the President or the public about his hospitalization. This caused concern about transparency.

Austin later apologized, saying, "We did not handle this right, and I did not handle this right. I should have told the President about my cancer diagnosis. I should have also told my team and the American public. And I take full responsibility." He explained that there were no gaps in leadership and that new procedures were put in place to prevent similar communication issues in the future.

Middle East Engagement

United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin meets with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Doha, Qatar, December 19, 2023
Austin meets with Qatari prime minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in Doha, Qatar, December 19, 2023.

Throughout his time as Secretary of Defense, Austin worked with leaders in the Middle East. He focused on strengthening partnerships and security in the region. This included working on missile defense, maritime security, and sharing information.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III in Cairo, Egypt, to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to the bilateral relationship and to exchange views on shared regional and global security challenges, March 8, 2023 - 230308-D-PM193-1383 03
Austin with Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi at the Presidential Palace in Cairo, March 8, 2023

Austin emphasized that alliances are a key strength for America, especially in the Middle East. He stated that the U.S. works with friends in the region to prevent aggression, stop terrorist groups, and keep important waterways safe.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III stands with Turkiye Defense Minister Yasar Guler at NATO headquarters, Brussels, Belgium, June 16, 2023 - 230616-D-XI929-1007
Austin with Turkish defense minister Yaşar Güler at NATO headquarters in Brussels, June 16, 2023

Austin also expressed concerns about Iran's actions in the region, such as supporting terrorism and developing advanced weapons. He stressed the importance of working with allies like Saudi Arabia and Israel to address these issues. In February 2021, he coordinated airstrikes against an Iranian-backed group in Syria in response to attacks on Americans in Iraq.

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U.S. secretary of defense Lloyd Austin hosts Saudi prince Khalid bin Salman at the Pentagon, July 6, 2021.

Fighting Terrorism

Austin stated that groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda continue to threaten the U.S. He supported investments in new technology for counterterrorism efforts.

In December 2023, Austin announced Operation Prosperity Guardian. This was a group of countries working together to stop attacks from Houthis in Yemen on commercial ships in the Red Sea. The goal was to ensure safe travel for ships and improve regional security.

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Austin with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 13, 2023

Austin also spoke about the importance of staying alert and working together to fight global terrorism. He highlighted that success against ISIS comes from determination, teamwork, and being able to adapt.

Support for Israel

Austin consistently stated that America's commitment to Israel's security is "ironclad" and "not negotiable." In January 2023, the U.S. and Israel held their largest joint military exercise ever, called Juniper Oak 23.2.

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Austin with Israeli prime minister Netanyahu on December 18, 2023

After the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, Austin sent a U.S. Navy carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean to show support. He visited Israel and met with defense leaders, reaffirming U.S. support. The U.S. also provided military aid to Israel.

Charles Q. Brown, Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, traveled to Tel Aviv, Israel and Amman, Jordan on 17 to 19 December 2023 - 22
Austin, Israeli Defense Minister Gallant, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Charles Q. Brown Jr. and Israeli Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi in Tel Aviv, Israel

Austin also expressed strong concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. He called for more humanitarian aid to be delivered and emphasized the need to protect civilians. The U.S. airlifted humanitarian supplies to Gaza and established a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea.

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Austin and Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., June 25, 2024

In July 2024, the U.S. resumed shipments of certain bombs to Israel. In October 2024, Austin discussed the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, calling it a "major achievement in counterterrorism." He also supported Israel's ground offensive against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

Indo-Pacific Focus

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and USFJ Commander Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider at Yokota Air Force Base
U.S. secretary of defense Lloyd Austin with Commander of U.S. Forces Japan Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider at Yokota Air Force Base in Japan, March 15, 2021.

Austin focused on the Indo-Pacific region, seeing China as a major challenge. He worked to strengthen U.S. military presence and exercises with partners like Japan and the Philippines. He made many official visits to the region during his time as Secretary of Defense.

In March 2021, Austin visited Japan and South Korea with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. This trip showed the U.S. commitment to its allies and to maintaining peace in the region. They discussed concerns about China's growing influence and North Korea's nuclear threat.

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Austin meets with Vietnam's prime minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi, Vietnam, July 29, 2021.

Austin also worked to strengthen defense ties with India. He urged India to reconsider buying a Russian missile system and emphasized the growing partnership between the U.S. and India.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin greets South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol for a meeting at the Pentagon, USA on April 27, 2023
Austin with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., April 27, 2023

Austin condemned China's military activity near Taiwan. He stated that the U.S. would continue to help Taiwan defend itself. He also secured U.S. military access to bases in the Philippines to help with regional security.

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Austin with Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen in Phnom Penh, June 4, 2024

In November 2023, Austin attended the ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting in Indonesia. He stressed the U.S. commitment to working with Southeast Asian partners for a stable and prosperous region.

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Austin with Philippine President Bongbong Marcos at the Pentagon, May 3, 2023

AUKUS Partnership In September 2021, the U.S., United Kingdom, and Australia formed a security partnership called AUKUS. Its goal is to share information and technology to strengthen defense. One part of AUKUS is helping Australia get nuclear-powered submarines. Another part is developing new technologies like artificial intelligence and electronic warfare.

Indian Defense Minister Singh in Laos
Austin met with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in Laos in November 2024

Austin emphasized that the AUKUS partnership shows a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted that the three countries believe in international law and peaceful ways to solve problems.

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Austin with Chinese state councilor and defense minister Wei Fenghe, November 22, 2022

Afghanistan Withdrawal

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III greets and President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani during a bilateral exchange at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., June 25, 2021 51270314796
Austin meeting with Afghan president Ashraf Ghani on June 25, 2021

In February 2021, Austin stated that the Biden Administration was still deciding on the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan. In April 2021, President Biden announced that all U.S. troops would leave Afghanistan by September 11, 2021.

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Austin with NATO's Resolute Support Mission commander Austin S. Miller in Kabul, Afghanistan, March 21, 2021

After the U.S. withdrawal began, the Taliban quickly took control of Afghanistan. In August 2021, the U.S. deployed troops to Kabul Airport to help evacuate embassy staff and others. This became one of the largest airlifts in history, evacuating over 120,000 people. On August 26, 2021, a terrorist attack at the airport killed many civilians and 13 U.S. service members. The last American service member left Afghanistan on August 30, 2021.

Support for Ukraine

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Austin refused to cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigating Russian war crimes in Ukraine, stating "I will always prioritize the protection of US military personnel in anything that we do."

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Austin immediately ordered 7,000 U.S. military personnel to Europe to support Ukraine. The U.S. and its allies provided billions of dollars in military aid to Ukraine, including missiles, ammunition, and other equipment.

Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on April 24, 2022

In April 2022, Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Kyiv, Ukraine, to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. They discussed America's strong support for Ukraine.

Austin also started the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), a forum where nearly 40 nations met to discuss how to support Ukraine. He stated that the goal was to help Ukraine win the fight against Russia's invasion and build up Ukraine's defenses for the future. He called Russia's invasion "baseless, reckless and lawless."

United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin meets with Ukrainian Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov during his visit to Kyiv, Ukraine on 20 November 2023
Austin with Ukrainian defense minister Rustem Umerov in Kyiv, November 20, 2023

The UDCG has grown to include over 50 countries. They have provided more than $106 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. This aid includes air defense systems, tanks, artillery, and training for Ukrainian soldiers.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and National Defense University (NDU) President U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael T. Plehn at N.D.U., Washington, D.C., on December 11, 2023
Austin with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Washington, D.C., December 11, 2023

Austin emphasized that the war in Ukraine matters deeply to America and the world. He stated that if countries do not stand up to aggression, it will encourage more conflict. He visited Ukraine multiple times to show continued U.S. support.

In June 2024, President Joe Biden and President Zelenskyy signed a 10-year security agreement. This pact aims to strengthen Ukraine's ability to defend itself and prevent future aggression.

Africa Tour

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Austin at the United States–Africa Leaders Summit 2022

In September 2023, Austin made his first trip to Africa as Secretary of Defense. He visited Djibouti, Kenya, and Angola. He met with leaders to strengthen partnerships and work together against terrorism.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin with Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh at the presidential palace in Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti on September 24, 2023 - 230924-D-PM193-1265
Austin with Djibouti's president Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, September 24, 2023

Austin stated that Africa is very important for global prosperity and security. He emphasized that the U.S. seeks strong and equal partnerships with African nations. He also shared his personal story, noting that he grew up in a time of segregation in America and became the first Black Secretary of Defense.

Farewell Ceremony

Austin was honored with a farewell ceremony on January 17, 2025. He praised the Department of Defense's achievements during his four years, saying they "stood up to our rivals, we've weakened our foes, strengthened our friends, invested in our future, and done right by our people."

Austin received a traditional "clap-out" ceremony as he left the Pentagon on his final day.

Personal Life

Austin was raised by a Catholic mother and continues to practice his faith.

He has been married to Charlene Denise Banner Austin for over forty years. She has worked in non-profit administration and supported military families. Austin has two stepsons.

Images for kids

See also

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