Marines reveal commandant had open-heart surgery as questions linger over Lloyd Austin

Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric M. Smith underwent successful open-heart surgery on Monday, according to the service branch.

Smith, who went into cardiac arrest on Oct. 29, had surgery on Monday to repair a bicuspid aortic valve in his heart. He’s in “good condition,” the Marine Corps update said, adding that he will return to full-duty status following his rehabilitation. Until then, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney, will continue to perform the duties of the commandant.