During the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of U.S. military personnel were discharged for refusing the experimental mRNA vaccine. Now, former President Donald Trump has pledged to bring these soldiers back with full rank and pay.
“We will restore them to their previous rank with full pay,” Trump declared at his Trump National Doral Miami resort, emphasizing his plan to re-employ those removed due to vaccine mandates during the Biden administration.
In 2021, over 8,200 service members were forced out of the military for declining vaccination orders. While messages inviting them to return were sent in 2023, only 113 individuals have accepted the offer so far. Those seeking re-employment must still meet all military service standards, including physical fitness, medical qualifications, and weight requirements. However, individuals with criminal records or other disqualifications may be denied, and even officers must undergo a streamlined reappointment process.
Trump’s promise extends to those who voluntarily left the military to avoid the vaccine mandate, as long as they sign a sworn declaration confirming their decision. While it’s unclear how many will take advantage of this opportunity, retroactive pay could lead to higher costs for the military.
According to military records, 3,748 Marines were dismissed, with only 25 returning so far. The Army discharged 1,903 soldiers, of whom 73 have rejoined. Meanwhile, 1,878 Navy sailors and 671 Air Force personnel were also let go, with just two and 13 reinstated, respectively.
“Tens of thousands of soldiers were kicked out because of an experimental vaccine. They will receive apologies, reinstatement, and full pay,” stated U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth in a previous promise echoing Trump’s plan.
In addition to reinstating troops, Trump announced his intention to abolish diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the Department of Defense and Coast Guard, which is under the Department of Homeland Security.
The executive order aims to eliminate programs that, according to Trump, “undermine meritocracy, promote unconstitutional discrimination, and push divisive concepts or gender ideology.” It prohibits departments from advancing ideas suggesting foundational U.S. documents are racist or sexist, promoting race or gender stereotypes, or discussing divisive concepts tied to gender identity.
Trump has directed the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to implement the order within 30 days, signaling a sweeping effort to reset military priorities.
