Is Lloyd J. Austin III A-List?
No — Lloyd J. Austin III is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2011
Commander in Iraq
Lost A-list status in 2016
Dropped to B tier — Retires from the Army
Ranking Timeline
Invasion of Iraq
Served as Assistant Division Commander during the Iraq invasion.
Commander in Iraq
Commanding General, United States Forces - Iraq.
CENTCOM Commander
Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM).
Retires from the Army
Retired after 41 years of service.
Secretary of Defense
Appointed by President Biden.
Leaves Secretary of Defense
Austin completed his service as Secretary of Defense.
Legacy as Military Leader
Austin is regarded as an important US military and political leader.
Last updated: February 25, 2026