Austin calls on South Carolina State graduates to lead, serve > US Department of Defense > Defense Department News

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III today called on South Carolina State University’s Class of 2024 to give back to their communities and to the nation.

Austin pushed the graduates to use their unique talents to chart their own paths of service, underscoring the critical role young leaders will play in shaping the future for all Americans.

“Class of 2024, we need your service to the nation,” he said, “So find ways to effect change, contribute and be part of something bigger than yourself.”

That service, Austin said, can take several forms — both uniformed and civilian.

“You will find your own way,” he said. “But in times like these, civic engagement is not optional.”

Since taking office, Austin has waged a campaign to attract the nation’s top talent to public service.

Austin’s visit to South Carolina State University, a historically black university, further reflects his commitment to ensuring that the nation’s public workforce is reflective of the country it serves.

In his address to the school’s graduates, Austin drew on his personal experience growing up in the segregated South, with teachers, family and mentors who encouraged him. He used this example to illustrate the need to utilize the full talents of all Americans.

“You never know what we lose when we leave someone out,” he said. ‘We don’t have one American left. We don’t have one burger to waste. And that means we must continue to work together to break down barriers, level the playing field, and let everyone compete to win. ”

Austin credited teachers and mentors who inspired him and encouraged him as he charted his path forward, first to West Point and eventually becoming the first Black Secretary of Defense.

Education, he said, is what will give the next generation “the power to make change, even when it is difficult, and to help America realize its full promise.”

Graduates from historically black colleges and universities have long been at the forefront of breaking down barriers.

The nation’s 107 HBCUs have helped produce 40% of America’s Black engineers, 50% of Black lawyers, 70% of Black doctors and dentists, and 80% of Black judges.

And throughout South Carolina State’s 128-year history, graduates have left a long legacy of public service.

The school’s Army ROTC program has also produced more than 2,000 military officers since its inception.

Austin spoke to a group of newly commissioned South Carolina State ROTC officers and cadets on the eve of his speech.

“This is a great program,” he said. “And it has produced some great leaders, many of whom I have served with.”

He said the newly appointed officers should have no doubts about whether they have what it takes to lead soldiers and carry the torch in defense of the nation.

Austin offered similar encouragement to the broader graduating class during his speech.

“You’ve already proven that you’re going to perform,” he said. “Class of 2024, you were tested and conquered. And you came here today.”

That perseverance, he said, will be critical as the graduates take on difficult challenges and shape the nation’s future.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we don’t get to choose our times,” Austin said. “But we can shape our times. And in a democracy, that is especially relevant and a special responsibility for every citizen and for every member of this graduating class.”

While in South Carolina, Austin will further emphasize the value of service during a visit to the Future Soldier Preparatory Course at Fort Jackson.

The course is designed to help potential Army recruits overcome academic and fitness barriers to enlistment. More than 20,000 future soldiers have completed the course, contributing to the Army’s efforts to fill its ranks with high-quality soldiers without sacrificing standards.

Austin will also visit the troops stationed at Fort Jackson and underscore his commitment to caring for those who have chosen to serve.