This week, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III took the time to connect with service members stationed both domestically and overseas through video conferences and phone calls. With 41 years of experience in the Army, Austin understands the sacrifices made by these individuals, especially during the holidays. He encouraged them to introduce themselves, shared stories, and emphasized the importance of looking out for one another, regardless of their role or location.
During these conversations, Austin expressed his gratitude for the dedication and sacrifices made by service members, acknowledging that their efforts allow the nation to enjoy peace and security. He also shared valuable lessons learned throughout his career, such as the importance of taking care of one’s people. Despite the seriousness of the calls, Austin injected some holiday spirit by asking about Thanksgiving meals, morale events, and even football predictions, creating a sense of camaraderie and connection with the troops.
Secretary Austin’s holiday gesture aligns with his broader leadership approach within the Defense Department, where he prioritizes taking care of military personnel and their families. This includes initiatives such as pay raises, affordable child care, better on-base housing, and improved spousal employment opportunities. Through his ongoing campaign to support service members, Austin demonstrates his commitment to their well-being and overall morale.
This year, Secretary Austin connected with various units across different branches of the armed forces, ranging from the U.S. Space Force to the U.S. Army, highlighting the full spectrum of America’s military capabilities. By engaging with these units through morale calls, Austin not only showed appreciation for their service but also emphasized their crucial role in maintaining global peace and security. Despite the distance from their families during the holidays, Austin’s calls served as a reminder of how much the country values and supports its service members.
