In a recent 911 call, an assistant to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin requested emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to approach Austin's residence with discretion.
The assistant asked for the ambulance to refrain from using sirens or lights en route to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. This call has emerged as the latest revelation in the unfolding story of Austin's clandestine hospital visit, a fact concealed even from President Biden and other high-ranking administration officials.
The assistant's plea to the first responders was, "Can the ambulance not show up with lights and sirens? Were trying to remain a little subtle." The dispatcher responded by explaining that while ambulances are legally obligated to use lights and sirens on main roads, they typically switch them off upon entering residential areas.
Austin was admitted to the hospital on New Year's Day and discharged after a two-week stay. He is anticipated to continue his work from home for an unspecified duration. The Pentagon issued a statement saying, "The Secretary 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."
Upon Austin's discharge, doctors provided some insight into his hospital stay. Dr. John Maddox, trauma medical director, and Dr. Gregory Chesnut, director of the Center for Prostate Disease Research, confirmed that Austin did not undergo surgery. They stated, "Secretary Austin progressed well throughout his stay and his strength is rebounding. He underwent a series of medical tests and evaluations and received non-surgical care during his stay to address his medical needs, to include resolving some lingering leg pains."
It was revealed last week that Austin had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Despite the apparent communication gap, President Biden expressed his confidence in Austin's leadership as Defense Secretary. When queried by reporters in Allentown, Pennsylvania, about his trust in Austin, President Biden responded affirmatively, "I do."
Login