Trump Today Signs Order Reinstating 8,400 Troops Discharged Over COVID Vaccine Refusal with Back Pay

Jan 27, 2025, 03:46 PM

President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order today reinstating 8,400 service members who were discharged from the military for refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The order will restore their previous ranks, provide full back pay and benefits, and includes an apology for their dismissal. "Unjustly expelled service members will return," Trump stated. The executive action directs the Secretary of Defense to reinstate both active and reserve members who were removed due to their refusal to comply with the vaccine mandate. This move fulfills a key campaign promise made by President Trump to address the handling of COVID-19 vaccine mandates within the military. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has expressed support for the decision.