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Immediate Release

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Makes Holiday Calls to Deployed Service Members

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke today with several service members from the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Space Force to wish them Happy Holidays.

During the conversations, Secretary Austin expressed his deep gratitude to the service members and their families for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice in defense of the nation. He commended their critical role in ensuring the safety and security of the United States, as well as their continued commitment to supporting America's allies and partners around the globe. Secretary Austin acknowledged the professionalism and integrity with which they carry out their duties, recognizing the vital contributions they make every day in service to the country.

Secretary Austin spoke with service members from the following units:

  • Task Force 61/2, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. Marines from this unit are deployed to Naples, Italy, in support of U.S. Sixth Fleet operations in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility.

  • 53rd Space Operations Squadron, Detachment C. Guardians from this unit are stationed in Landstuhl, Germany to maintain Military Satellite Communications in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility.