In a recent statement, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed gratitude towards the medical staff at Walter Reed Medical Center who treated him during his five-day hospital stay. Austin also addressed the concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding his health issue, stating that he could have done a better job informing the public.

The news of Austin's hospitalization was kept secret from the public, the Pentagon press corps, lawmakers, and even senior White House officials, including President Joe Biden. It was only five days after being admitted to the hospital that the public and Congress were made aware of the situation.

According to Politico, top White House officials and members of the National Security Council were not informed until three days after Austin's admission to the hospital, prompting criticism and calls for consequences for what Senator Tom Cotton described as a "shocking breakdown."

The lack of immediate notification to President Biden and the National Security Council raises concerns about the chain of command, especially in critical moments when prompt decision-making is crucial. As the key link between the president and the uniformed military, Secretary Austin's hospitalization highlighted the necessity for effective communication.

Austin's statement did not provide specific details about the complications that led to his hospitalization or the reasons behind the delayed disclosure to officials and the public. However, he took full responsibility for the decision regarding the disclosure, emphasizing that it was his medical procedure.

"I am very glad to be on the mend and look forward to returning to the Pentagon soon," Austin wrote, assuring the public of his recovery.

Austin's acknowledgment of the lack of transparency and commitment to improving communication in the future is likely to ease some concerns and pave the way for a more open approach to addressing health matters concerning high-ranking officials in the future.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen what actions will be taken to ensure a smoother flow of information within the nation's defense apparatus. Efforts to enhance transparency and maintain the integrity of the chain of command will likely be closely watched moving forward.