WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization and the subsequent delayed notification of senior Pentagon leaders and government officials has prompted an investigation into the events surrounding his illness. Kelly Magsamen, Austin’s chief of staff, has ordered a 30-day review as the Pentagon faces scrutiny for the secrecy surrounding Austin’s condition.
Since late Friday, information about Austin’s hospitalization has been released in fragments. The Pentagon initially announced that Austin had been hospitalized since January 1, following complications from an elective procedure on December 22, without providing further details.
One of the reasons for the delayed notification to the White House was cited as Magsamen’s illness preventing her from being aware of Austin’s hospitalization and intensive care. However, it has been revealed that several officials, including public affairs staff, knew of Austin’s situation yet failed to pass on the information. This breach in protocol when senior officials are incapacitated has raised concerns.
Magsamen has also ordered that senior officials be promptly notified of any transfer of authority from Austin to his deputy, Kathleen Hicks, during hospitalizations or times when communication is not possible. Hicks assumed some of Austin’s authorities on January 2 while on vacation, but was only informed two days later that Austin was in intensive care. Austin has since resumed work and taken back his authority.
The review will establish a timeline of events beginning January 1 when Austin was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Magsamen stated that the aim of the review is to ensure clarity, transparency, and the proper and timely notification of relevant parties, including the President, White House, Congress, and the American public.
Earlier on Monday, Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, acknowledged his knowledge of Austin’s hospitalization on January 2 and expressed regret for not informing the public sooner. Meanwhile, the Marine Corps provided detailed information about the successful open-heart surgery undergone by the commandant, Gen. Eric Smith, in contrast to the lack of disclosure from the Pentagon regarding Austin’s procedure and complications.
The Republican chairman and ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee released a joint statement calling for Austin to disclose details about his health and the reason for the delayed notification. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Austin’s illness aims to address concerns over information disclosure and establish protocols for future incidents.
In conclusion, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization and delayed notification have prompted an investigation into the events surrounding his illness. The Pentagon is facing criticism for the lack of transparency and is conducting a 30-day review to establish a timeline of events and address concerns about information disclosure. The review aims to ensure clarity, proper notification to relevant parties, and transparency in future cases involving the transfer of authority. The House Armed Services Committee has called for Austin to provide more details about his health and the reason for the delay in notifying the White House and Congress.