Members of the 70th ISR Cryptologic Wing received the COVID-19 Vaccine on March 8, 2021, at Fort George G. Meade, MD. (Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Gerald R. Willis) The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. Image: DoD
By: FEDweek StaffThe Defense Department is offering a path to reinstatement for service members that voluntarily left or were separated because they rejected the now rescinded Covid-19 vaccine mandate for military personnel.
The mandate, first enacted in August 2021 and repealed in 2022, led to the involuntary discharge of over 8,700 service members and additional voluntary departures.
The reinstatement program includes outreach efforts such as letters of apology, phone calls, and online resources to inform affected personnel of their options, according to guidance from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth (following an executive order).
Those involuntarily discharged due to vaccine refusal will have the opportunity to rejoin their ranks and receive back pay, covering missed entitlements and benefits.
Individuals who voluntarily left will also be eligible to return, though without financial compensation, through a streamlined process.
Former service members have until April 1, 2026, to express interest, with the process including administrative steps and medical evaluations to ensure retention standards are met.
Hegseth said initiative would help with restoring readiness and upholding its commitment to service members.
