After undergoing seemingly secretive surgery, the U.S. Defense Secretary has been discharged from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after spending 24 days in its care.
As reported earlier this month by The Dallas Express, news of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization was not immediately communicated to the White House or other relevant high-ranking officials. As a result, the Inspector General’s office initiated an investigation to examine the current transfer of power protocols.
As he continues to recover from the surgery to treat his prostate cancer and subsequent complications, Austin plans to continue working from home.
“The Secretary continues to recover well and, on the advice of doctors, will recuperate and perform his duties remotely for a period of time before returning full-time to the Pentagon. He has full access to required secure communications capabilities,” Department of Defense officials said in a statement.
Even while bedridden, the defense secretary continued to fulfill his duties. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Austin directed strikes against Iranian proxies in Iraq in late December. This coincides with the time the defense secretary was admitted to Walter Reed.
Austin was also active in directing more recent strikes against Houthi rebels who have been attacking commercial traffic in the Red Sea, disrupting trade routes.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Austin said he was “grateful” for the excellent care from the doctors and nurses at the hospital. “I also am thankful and appreciative for all the well wishes I received for a speedy recovery,” he added.