Defense Secretary Austin Makes Personal Holiday Calls to Deployed US Military Service Members

In a heartwarming gesture, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been making personal phone calls to thank military service members who are serving abroad during the Christmas season. Austin and Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks have been reaching out to units such as the U.S. Air Force’s 494th Expeditionary Fighter Generation Squadron, the U.S. Navy’s USS BOXER, and various other military personnel.

These calls serve as a reminder of the immense sacrifice made by these service members and their families during the holiday season. Austin and Hicks have acknowledged the challenges faced by these individuals and have expressed their gratitude for their dedication and service.

President Biden, along with First Lady Jill Biden, have also taken time to call members of all six branches of the military during major holidays, referring to them as “the best of us.” This tradition highlights the importance of recognizing and appreciating the efforts of those who serve our country.

In addition to these personal calls, the Department of Defense has been working to provide support and resources to military personnel and their families during the holiday season. This includes organizing events and activities to help create a sense of community and camaraderie among service members.

Overall, the efforts of Defense Secretary Austin and other officials to connect with deployed military service members during the holiday season demonstrate a commitment to recognizing and appreciating the sacrifices made by these individuals and their families.