DOD Reaches Out to 8,200 Discharged for COVID Vaccine Refusal, Offers Reinstatement

The DOD recontacts over 8,200 troops discharged for COVID vaccine refusal, offering reinstatement with back pay and benefits for eligible members.

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The Pentagon moves to take back troops discharged over COVID-19 vaccine refusals

Boston Herald

The Pentagon moves to take back troops discharged over COVID-19 vaccine refusals

Washington Times

The Pentagon moves to take back troops discharged over COVID-19 vaccine refusals

Washington Times

Pentagon moves to take back troops booted for refusing COVID vaccine

Military Times

Pentagon Moves to Take Back Troops Discharged Over COVID Vax Refusals

Newsmax

Overview

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

The Defense Department has mandated military services to recontact over 8,200 discharged troops let go for refusing the COVID vaccine and offer reinstatement at previous ranks. Although initial outreach in 2023 saw only 113 reenlistments, new directives allow eligible members to return with back pay and benefits. They must meet fitness and health guidelines and respond within 60 days of receiving compensation estimates. Notably, only senior leaders can reject waiver requests, increasing flexibility for eligibility. The program to contact these service members will begin in two months, with reinstatement offers valid for one year.

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