Posted 1/6/2024, 12:00:00 AM
Defense Secretary Austin Hospitalized, Recovering After Medical Procedure
- Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been hospitalized since Monday due to complications from a recent medical procedure
- Pentagon announced Austin's hospitalization on Friday, drawing criticism from press association for lack of transparency
- Austin is recovering well and expected to resume full duties on Friday, according to Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder
- Deputy Secretary of Defense was prepared to take over Austin's responsibilities if needed
- Austin, 70, is a retired 4-star Army general who served 41 years in the military