Washington, USA| In a move that could significantly impact military personnel dismissed during the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, former President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to sign an executive order that would allow service members who were discharged for refusing the vaccine to request reinstatement.
Sources familiar with the matter suggest that the executive order, once signed, will grant these former service members the opportunity to regain their positions within the military.
If their requests are approved, the troops would be reinstated at their prior rank, alongside receiving back pay and benefits that were lost during their period of discharge.
The initiative stems from Trump’s broader stance on the military’s vaccine mandate, which saw thousands of service members removed from active duty for non-compliance.
During the Biden administration, over 8,000 military personnel were dismissed due to their refusal to get vaccinated.
However, when the mandate was lifted in 2023, only 43 individuals took the opportunity to return to service.
The White House has noted that, despite the end of the vaccine requirement, the number of those opting to return remains relatively low.
This new executive order seeks to address the gap, potentially offering a chance for many former troops to reintegrate into their respective branches, with full benefits.
Critics of the mandate and its enforcement argue that the military’s actions may have unnecessarily disrupted careers, particularly for those who had strong service records but chose not to receive the vaccine due to personal or medical reasons.
They hope the order will encourage greater flexibility and fairness for those who faced dismissal.
While the details of the order are still being finalized, it is clear that the decision marks a significant shift in the treatment of military personnel who were impacted by the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
Military and political leaders will be closely watching its implementation, as it could shape future policies regarding vaccine requirements and personnel management in the armed forces.