After a two-week hospitalization for complications arising from surgery to treat prostate cancer, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was released from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Monday. In a statement, Austin expressed gratitude towards the doctors and staff who provided him with care during his time at the medical center.

Austin underwent surgery in December to address prostate cancer and was admitted to the hospital in early January due to complications related to the procedure. The White House was not informed about Austin's hospitalization at the time, and it was only three days after his admission that they were made aware. The Defense Secretary did not disclose his cancer diagnosis to the public until a month after being diagnosed.

According to a statement issued by Austin's physicians, his progress during his hospital stay was positive, and he is expected to make a complete recovery. The doctors further affirmed that Austin's prostate cancer was treated effectively and early, resulting in an excellent prognosis. No additional treatment for the cancer is planned, except for regular post-prostatectomy surveillance.

While Austin has resumed his duties as Defense Secretary since January 5, he will continue working remotely for the time being. Austin expressed eagerness to recover fully and return to the Pentagon as soon as possible.

The release from the hospital marks an important milestone for Secretary Austin as he focuses on his recuperation and gradually transitions back to his full-time responsibilities at the Pentagon.