Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III briefs the press from the Pentagon Briefing Room, Washington, D.C., Feb. 19, 2021. (DoD Photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jack Sanders).

By  Gary  Raynaldo   –   DIPLOMATIC   TIMES

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Ausitn was released from hospital Monday after undergoing treatment for complications following prostate cancer surgery, the Pentagon announced. Austin, who had been  hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center since New Year’s Day,  is not expected to return to full duties yet.  According to a statement from the Pentagon, Austin “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”.  Austin’s prostate cancer was treated “early and effectively”, and his prognosis is “excellent”, according to the Pentagon.  Austin came under fire for his lack of disclosure and details regarding his hospitalization.  In early December, Austin was diagnosed with prostate cancer.  On December 22, Austin underwent prostatectomy surgery,  went home a day later and was admitted to intensive care Jan. 1 when he began experiencing severe pain.  Austin’s “secretive” hospitalization has sparked controversy in political circles in DC with many criticizing his lack of disclosure in failing to inform the Pentagon’s second-in command official  Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathy Hicks that he was hospitalized Jan.1 until four days after she had assumed some of his duties.  Austin also apparently did not immediately communicate to anyone at the White House or the National Security Council of his emergency hospitalization. Many Republicans are calling on President Biden to fire Austin.

Austin said in a statement Monday he is eager to return to full duties at the Pentagon.

“I’m grateful for the excellent care I received at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and want to thank the outstanding doctors and nursing staff for their professionalism and superb support. I also am thankful and appreciative for all the well wishes I received for a speedy recovery. Now, as I continue to recuperate and perform my duties from home, I’m eager to fully recover and return as quickly as possible to the Pentagon.”

-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin