Lloyd Austin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lloyd Austin
|
|
|---|---|
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 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
August 8, 1953 Mobile, Alabama, U.S. |
| Spouse |
Charlene Banner
(m. 1980) |
| Education |
|
| Signature |  |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | United States Army |
| Years of service | 1975–2016 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands |
|
| Battles/wars |
|
| Awards | Full list |
Lloyd James Austin III (born August 8, 1953) is a retired United States Army four-star general. He served as the 28th United States Secretary of Defense from 2021 to 2025. He worked in President Joe Biden's government.
Before he retired from the military in 2016, Austin was the 12th commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM). This role began in March 2013. Before that, he was the 33rd Vice Chief of Staff of the Army. He held this position from January 2012 to March 2013. He also commanded United States Forces – Iraq from September 2010 to December 2011. He is the first African American to hold each of these important jobs.
After leaving the military, Austin joined the boards of several companies. These included Raytheon Technologies and Nucor. On December 7, 2020, President-elect Joe Biden chose him to be the Secretary of Defense. The United States Senate confirmed his appointment on January 22, 2021.
Austin has a special record. He commanded troops in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan at every general officer rank. He was the first African American to lead a division, corps, and field army in battle. He received the Silver Star for his brave actions during the Iraq invasion. This is the nation's third-highest award for courage.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Austin 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. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree there.
Later, he continued his education. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Auburn University in 1986. In 1989, he received a Master of Business Administration from Webster University. He also completed advanced military training. This included the United States Army Command and General Staff College and the United States Army War College.
Military Career Highlights
Austin began his military career as a second lieutenant in 1975. His first assignment was in Germany. He later served with the U.S. 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. There, he commanded a combat support company.
In 1981, Austin worked as an operations officer for Army recruiting in Indianapolis. He then returned to West Point as a company tactical officer. After more training, he joined the 10th Mountain Division (United States) at Fort Drum, New York. He held several leadership roles there.
In 1993, Austin returned to the 82nd Airborne Division. He commanded the 2nd Battalion, 505th Infantry. After attending the United States Army War College, he commanded the 3rd Brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division.
He then worked at The Pentagon on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. As Assistant Division Commander for Maneuver, he helped lead the 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized) in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. For his actions during the invasion, Austin received the Silver Star.
From 2003 to 2005, Austin commanded the 10th Mountain Division (United States). He also led Combined Joint Task Force 180 during the War in Afghanistan. Later, he became chief of staff for United States Central Command in Florida.
In December 2006, Austin was promoted to lieutenant general. He took command of the XVIII Airborne Corps (United States). In 2008, he became the second-highest ranking commander in Iraq. He led the Multi-National Corps–Iraq, overseeing about 152,000 forces.
In August 2009, Austin became the Director of the Joint Staff. This promotion was important for his career. He was tasked with increasing diversity within the Joint Staff.
Leading US Forces in Iraq
On September 1, 2010, Austin became the Commanding General of United States Forces – Iraq (USF-I). He was the top military commander for all U.S. and allied forces in Iraq. His mission was to advise, train, and equip the Iraqi Armed Forces.
Austin managed the shift from combat operations to stability operations. He wanted the U.S. to keep about 10,000 troops in Iraq after 2011. He oversaw the reduction of forces. The U.S. command in Iraq officially ended its mission on December 15, 2011. Austin left Iraq on December 18, 2011.
Army Vice Chief of Staff
In December 2011, Austin was chosen to be the Vice Chief of Staff of the United States Army (VCSA). He started this role on January 31, 2012. As VCSA, he managed the Army's daily budget and headquarters staff.
Commander of CENTCOM
Austin became the commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on March 22, 2013. President Obama nominated him for this role. As CENTCOM Commander, General Austin oversaw all U.S. troops and major military operations. This covered the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia. This area included 20 countries like Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.
Austin was known for being a "quiet general." He did not often speak publicly about military matters.
When ISIL took control of Mosul in 2014, Austin led the military plan to fight ISIL. He faced questions from Senator John McCain about the strategy in Syria.
Austin retired from the military on April 5, 2016. He said he was very proud of the achievements of the coalition forces. He praised the young leaders for their amazing work in tough situations.
Private Sector Work
After retiring from the military, Austin joined the board of Raytheon Technologies in April 2016. This company is a military contractor. He also joined the boards of Nucor and Tenet Healthcare. He also runs a consulting firm.
Secretary of Defense (2021–2025)
.jpg)
When Austin became Secretary of Defense, he set three main goals. These were defending the nation, taking care of military personnel, and working as a team. He wanted to make sure the Department of Defense could protect the country from threats. He also focused on building a strong workforce and unity.
In March 2023, Austin spoke to the Senate Armed Services Committee. He explained the goals of the 2022 National Defense Strategy. This strategy focuses on challenges from China and Russia. It also addresses threats from Iran, North Korea, and terrorist groups.
Soon after taking office, Austin visited the United States National Guard in Washington D.C. He praised them for protecting the Capitol after the January 6, 2021 attack.
Part of Austin's plan was to fight the COVID-19 pandemic within the military. He urged service members to get vaccinated. He took the vaccine himself to show it was safe. He stressed that vaccines would prevent illness among troops.
Austin also removed some appointees from Pentagon advisory boards. These were people appointed by the previous president.
Middle East Engagement
Austin has worked with leaders in the Middle East. He wants to strengthen partnerships and security in the region. The U.S. works with allies on defense, maritime security, and sharing information.
More than 30,000 U.S. troops are in the Middle East. This is true even after the U.S. left Afghanistan and reduced troops in Iraq.
In January 2023, Austin said that alliances are a core strength for America. He noted this is especially important in the Middle East.
In November 2021, Austin spoke in Bahrain. He said the U.S. works with friends in the region to stop aggression. They also work to fight terrorist groups and keep waterways safe. He promised to continue supporting these partnerships.
In July 2022, President Biden met with leaders from Gulf countries. Austin was part of this meeting. They talked about the U.S.'s commitment to security in the Middle East.
Iran Relations
.jpg)
During a visit to Israel in March 2023, Austin said Iran causes instability in the region. He expressed concern about Iran's support for terrorism and its nuclear progress.
In January 2023, Austin stated that a nuclear-armed Iran is the biggest threat to Israel. He said Iran's actions, like supporting terrorists, are dangerous. The U.S. works with Israel and other partners to pressure Iran.
In February 2021, Austin spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. They discussed the 70-year U.S.-Saudi security partnership. Austin supported Saudi Arabia in its conflict with Iran.
Later in February 2021, Austin ordered military airstrikes in Syria. These strikes targeted an Iranian-backed militia. This was in response to attacks on Americans in Iraq.
Fighting Terrorism
Austin stated in March 2023 that groups like ISIS and al-Qa'ida still threaten the U.S. and its partners. He said the U.S. is investing in new ways to fight terrorism. They want to prevent future attacks. He noted their ability to remove dangerous operatives from the battlefield.
Support for Israel
.jpg)
Austin has said, "America's commitment to Israel's security is ironclad." This means it is very strong and will not change.
In January 2023, the U.S. and Israel held a large military exercise called Juniper Oak 23.2. Over 7,000 personnel took part. They practiced long-range strikes and air operations.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel. Austin sent the Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean. On October 13, 2023, he visited Israel. He told Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant that America's support for Israel is "ironclad."
The Pentagon has focused on protecting American forces and helping Israel. They also work to free hostages held by Hamas. They are strengthening forces in the region to prevent the conflict from spreading.
In November 2023, the U.S. airlifted humanitarian supplies to Gaza. This was done at the request of USAID.
Indo-Pacific Focus
In March 2023, Austin spoke about China. He called China the "pacing challenge" for the U.S. military. He said the U.S. is investing in stronger defense in the Indo-Pacific. They are also increasing military exercises with partners.
He noted that the Philippines has agreed to more cooperation sites. Japan has promised to double its defense spending. The AUKUS partnership with Australia and Britain will also boost defense.
In March 2021, Austin visited Japan and South Korea. This trip showed the Biden administration's concern about China's growing influence. It also addressed North Korea's nuclear threat. Austin promised to strengthen ties with allies. He also pledged a strong U.S. military presence in the Indo-Pacific.
.jpg)
In June 2023, Austin visited Tokyo. He met with Japanese defense leaders. They discussed modernizing their alliance.
In July 2023, Austin went to Australia for AUSMIN talks. Officials said the alliance between the U.S. and Australia is stronger than ever. It helps peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Austin also visited India in March 2021 and June 2023. He met with Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. India has become closer to the U.S. due to its tensions with China. Austin urged India not to buy Russia's S-400 missile system. The U.S. and India have signed defense agreements.
In June 2022, Austin spoke about China's military activity near Taiwan. He called it "provocative." He said the U.S. will help Taiwan defend itself. By February 2023, the U.S. gained access to nine military bases in the Philippines. This helps in the region between Taiwan and the South China Sea.
In November 2023, Austin attended a meeting in Indonesia. He stressed the U.S. commitment to ASEAN countries. He explained how U.S. security cooperation helps the region.
Afghanistan Withdrawal
In February 2021, Austin said the Biden administration had not decided on a full troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. The previous administration had set a May 1 deadline. Austin promised the U.S. would not leave Afghanistan quickly or without order. He met with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Kabul in March 2021.
On April 14, 2021, President Biden announced a new withdrawal deadline of September 11, 2021. He said it was time to end America's longest war.
After U.S. troops began to leave, the Taliban launched an offensive. They quickly advanced against the Afghan government. Austin said the Afghan military needed to slow the Taliban's progress.
.jpg)
In August 2021, 3,000 U.S. troops were sent to Kabul International Airport. Their job was to evacuate embassy staff and U.S. citizens. The Defense Department oversaw a huge airlift. More than 120,000 people were evacuated. On August 30, 2021, the last American service member left Afghanistan.
Austin ordered a review of the Defense Department's actions in Afghanistan. This review aimed to learn lessons for future crises.
Africa Engagements
In September 2023, Austin made his first trip to Africa as Secretary of Defense. He visited Djibouti, home to a main U.S. military base. He met with leaders there and Somalia's president.
He then traveled to Kenya. He and his Kenyan counterpart signed a five-year security agreement. This agreement supports working together against terrorism. Austin also promised $100 million to support Kenyan security.
He ended his trip in Angola. He was the first U.S. defense secretary to visit Angola. In a speech, Austin said, "Africa matters." He stressed its importance for global prosperity and security. He also shared his personal story. He grew up in the segregated American South. He noted that America, like all democracies, is always working to improve.
Personal Life
Austin was raised by a Catholic mother and still practices his faith. He is very tall, over 6 feet. He is known for being reserved and keeping a low public profile.
Austin has been married to Charlene Denise Banner Austin for over forty years. Charlene worked as a non-profit administrator. She also served on a board for military families. Austin has two stepsons.
Awards and Decorations
.jpg)
Lloyd Austin has received many awards and decorations for his military service. These include:
- The Defense Distinguished Service Medal (five times)
- The Army Distinguished Service Medal (four times)
- The Silver Star
- The Defense Superior Service Medal (twice)
- The Legion of Merit (twice)
- The Meritorious Service Medal (five times)
- The Army Commendation Medal (six times)
- The Army Achievement Medal (twice)
He also earned several unit awards, campaign medals, and service ribbons. These include the Army Presidential Unit Citation and the Iraq Campaign Medal.
Austin has earned several special badges. These include the Combat Action Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, and Master Parachutist Badge.
In 2007, he was inducted into the Thomasville County Sports Hall of Fame.
Images for kids
-
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
-
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.
-
Austin with Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto in Manama, Bahrain on November 20, 2021
-
Austin with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler at NATO headquarters in Brussels, June 16, 2023
-
Austin speaks to Department of Defense personnel in 2021
-
Austin with Chinese State councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe, November 22, 2022
.jpg)
_(cropped).jpg)
.jpg)
