Lloyd James Austin III (* 8. srpna 1953 Mobile, Alabama) je bývalý americký generál, [1 ] který v letech 2021–2025 působil jako ministr obrany Spojených států amerických ve vládě Joea Bidena. [2 ] [3 ] [4 ] [5 ] [6 ] Sloužil jako 12.
Who is Lloyd Austin?Lloyd Austin is a distinguished figure in the United States military history, serving as the first African American to head the Pentagon as the Secretary of Defense. His career spans over four decades, with notable leadership roles and contributions to national security.What did Lloyd Austin do before becoming Secretary of Defense?Before taking on the role of Secretary of Defense, Austin had a highly decorated career in the U.S. Army. He retired as a four-star general, having commanded U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), overseeing American military operations in the Middle East. His experience and leadership in critical regions have been instrumental in shaping U.S. defense strategies.How did Lloyd Austin make history?Austin made history by being confirmed as the first African American Secretary of Defense. His appointment broke significant racial barriers in the U.S. military's leadership, marking a milestone in the country's ongoing journey toward diversity and inclusion.
Austin was born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1941, the second son of Lloyd James Austin (1915–1994) and of Jeanne-Françoise (née Guérin). [2 ] A few years later the family moved to France and then to Great Britain. [3 ] He was educated at…