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A man speaks from a lectern. The sign behind him indicates that he is at the Pentagon. — News
Diplomacy, Leadership Can Prevent Conflict Between Russia, Ukraine

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III is carefully watching the situation in Russia in regards to the country's conflict with Ukraine, Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby said.

A soldier walks on a mat in front of a marble tomb. — Experience |
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, America's final resting place for those whose remains have not been found or identified, inspires reflection on service, valor, sacrifice and mourning.
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Soldiers wade into waist-deep water toward the shore of a beach from a ship with a ramp in the back. — Spotlight |
Commemorating World War II

The Defense Department pays tribute to all who served the nation during World War II and to the Allied countries whose service members fought side-by-side with America’s forces. DoD honors the troops who perished in the fight, were listed as missing in action or were prisoners of war; the veterans who returned; and the sacrifices of their families in the fight to preserve freedom.
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Defense Secretary Austin smiles and shakes hands with a U.S. Military Academy cadet on a podium. — Spotlight |
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III

As the 28th secretary of defense, Lloyd J. Austin III is the principal assistant to the president in all matters relating to the Department of Defense and also serves on the National Security Council.
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News

News | Observances
Nation Observes 80th Anniversary of Attack on Pearl Harbor

Among the lessons to be taken from the U.S. response to the attack on Pearl Harbor is the importance of operating as part of the joint force, and of striking a balance between training and readiness, a former Army Pacific command historian said.

Feature | Know Your Military
Sports Heroes Who Served: Baseball Player Became Accomplished Navy Fighter Pilot in World War II

Tom Woodruff played minor league baseball before joining the military. He saw action in the Pacific Theater as a fighter pilot during World War II, losing his life on a mission near Manila, Philippines, and was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions under fire.

News | Defense News
Austin Concerned About U.S. Citizens' Loss of Trust, Confidence in Military

The confidence that Americans have in their military has dropped, according to a recent survey released by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute.

Spotlight | Reform
Military Health

The Military Health System supports the National Defense Strategy by providing a medically ready force, a ready medical force and a medical benefit in keeping with the service and sacrifice of more than 9.6 million active-duty personnel, military retirees and their families.

Quiz | Know Your Military
The 'Date Which Will Live in Infamy': How Much Do You Know?

Test your knowledge about the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, that took American lives and led the United States into World War II.

Press Products

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Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on the 80th Anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor

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Navy to Commission Guided-Missile Destroyer Daniel Inouye

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Secretary of Defense Austin Approves More DoD Advisory Committees for Resumption of Operations

From The Services

Three soldiers stand in front of military vehicle talking. — Army
U.S., Ukrainian Medics Train Together

An aircraft parked on the deck of a ship. — Marine Corps
'Black Knights' Return After Integrated Training

A person speaks at a lectern outside. — Navy
California Partners With Navy on Energy, Water Initiatives

Two athletes in a Team USA outfits stand outside for a portrait. — Air Force
Airmen Compete Together for Team USA Bobsledding

An officer sits at a desk and signs a sheet of paper. — Space Force
University Partnership Program Welcomes New Member

A soldier stands for a photos in a mountainous area. — National Guard
'Black Hawk Down' Hero Receives Silver Star

Interactive Experiences

DOD in Photos: 2021

Take a glimpse into the daily lives of the Defense Department and its people through the eyes of military photographers during operations, training activities, humanitarian missions and other major events of 2021.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, America's final resting place for those whose remains have not been found or identified, inspires reflection on service, valor, sacrifice and mourning.

Four-Legged Fighters

They may not have actual boots on the ground, but you'll find U.S. military working dogs serving wherever American troops do. They are as lovable as they are loyal, but make no mistake – these are highly skilled warriors, trained by the best to serve alongside them.

DOD In Photos 2021

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Four-Legged Fighters