Defense Secretary Pick Lloyd Austin Says He 'Reveres Civilian Control of Military'

Описание: President-elect Joe Biden's pick to lead the Defense Department says he's aware of the historical moment that would come with his confirmation.

Retired four-star Army general Lloyd J. Austin said Wednesday in Wilmington, Delaware, that a man from his own hometown of Thomasville, Georgia, became the first Black graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Austin, who would be the first Black leader of the Pentagon, said that man and others including the Tuskeegee Airmen and Colin Powell "paved the way for me and countless others" to be part of the U.S. military.

Biden on Wednesday officially announced Austin as his pick for defense secretary. He would need a congressional waiver since he's been out of the military less than the seven years required by law.

Austin said he reveres the principle of civilian control of the military and sees himself now as a civilian, not as a general.

He said that if confirmed by the Senate, he will surround himself in the Pentagon with civilian officials and advisers to ensure accountability.

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