The Future Soldier Prep Course opens doors for those who want to serve. In South Carolina, I met some recruits who want to improve themselves and serve honorably in our all-volunteer force. It was great to thank them for their dedication to serving our Nation.

Congressman Clyburn, it was an honor to be with you at your alma mater, South Carolina State University.  

I thank you for everything you have done for SC State University and our democracy.

Today, I administered the oath of enlistment to the newest troops in America’s military at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.  

Welcome to the greatest team on Earth.

We’re proud to have you in our ranks.

For nearly 130 years, South Carolina State University has produced the skilled leaders that our country needs. They teach excellence and open doors of opportunity.  

Today, I had the honor of delivering the Commencement address for SC State University’s Class of 2024.

LIVE: Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Lloyd J. Austin III gives the commencement address at the SC State University spring graduation. x.com/i/broadcasts/1…

South Carolina State University’s Army ROTC has produced more than 2,000 U.S. military officers—their history stands proud and strong.  

It was great to meet with some of SC State’s ROTC cadets—young men and women who have chosen to serve their country.

Today, I met with my 🇩🇪 counterpart Boris Pistorius. German partnership in support of Ukraine and within the NATO Alliance is critical – always important to exchange views with a close Ally. #WeAreNATO

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I’m headed to Orangeburg, South Carolina today to deliver the Commencement address for South Carolina State University. In South Carolina, I’ll also meet with recruits and service members at Fort Jackson.

Each year in May, we celebrate National Military Appreciation Month. This month and every month, we recognize the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform, and the contributions of military spouses and families who serve alongside them.

This week, we celebrated Public Service Recognition Week to thank the exceptional Americans who give back to our country and our communities through public service.

No matter how you serve: thank you. Our nation is stronger and better because of you.

Today, I testified before the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee in support of President Biden’s proposed FY25 budget for DoD. Our military is the most lethal fighting force on Earth. The timely passage of the FY25 budget will ensure we keep it that way.

I met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II yesterday to reiterate U.S. support for Jordan’s security and appreciation for Jordan’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza.  The United States stands with Jordan amid threats from Iran and its regional proxies.

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Great to host another meeting of the Defense Business Board at the Pentagon today. I provided an update to board members on our security challenges and opportunities and thanked them for their expertise to help improve DoD business practices, governance, and culture.

Today, I spoke with my 🇺🇦 counterpart Rustem Umerov regarding Ukraine’s most pressing battlefield needs and ongoing U.S. security assistance efforts. I reiterated our unwavering support of Ukraine as it continues to push back on Russia’s aggression.

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I spoke to Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss the ongoing hostage negotiations and Rafah. I reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Israel’s self-defense, protecting Palestinian civilians, and encouraging the increased flow of humanitarian aid into…

I wrapped up a great trip to Hawaii.

I saw firsthand how our defense relationships with allies across the Indo-Pacific are stronger than ever — and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s critical role in upholding regional security alongside our partners.

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The Indo-Pacific theater is a joint theater that requires joint solutions, and today’s Army must operate across all domains. It was an honor to thank some of our Army Mariners stationed in Hawaii for their continued service, sacrifice, and commitment to our mission.

I met with some of our Sailors stationed in Hawaii who seamlessly support our 3rd and 7th fleets, protect the homeland, and promote regional security and stability alongside our Allies and partners. They represent the best of our nation and it was a privilege to meet with them.

It was great to see President Whipps, President Simina, and Minister Kaneko at the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Change of Command yesterday.

Our partnerships with the Freely Associated States are deeper than ever thanks to strong bipartisan support from Congress.