Lloyd Austin — SPARQNOW

At-a-Glance

Serves as the 28th United States Secretary of Defense (2021-2025) under the Biden administration.
First African American to serve as Secretary of Defense, CENTCOM Commander, and Vice Chief of Staff of the Army.
Served on the boards of Raytheon Technologies, Nucor, Tenet Healthcare, and Auburn University.
Commanded in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan at one-, two-, three-, and four-star levels.
Recipient of the Silver Star and five Defense Distinguished Service Medals.
Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1975.

Biography

Lloyd James Austin III is the 28th United States Secretary of Defense, serving from 2021 to 2025 under the Biden administration. He is the first African American to hold this position. Prior to this role, he was the 12th commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM) from 2013, and the 33rd vice chief of staff of the Army from 2012 to 2013. He also commanded United States Forces – Iraq from 2010 to 2011.