U.S. Army Soldiers Reinstated After Being Discharged for Refusing COVID Shots

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has begun reinstating U.S. Army personnel  involuntarily discharged in 2021 for refusing to comply with the Biden administration’s COVID-19 shot mandate for Americans serving in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and other branches of the military. The COVID shot mandate, which was rescinded in 2023 under the National Defense Authorization Act that year, caused the removal of more than 8,700 active-duty personnel across all branches.¹

Now, with military recruitment falling well below targets—the Army alone missed its 2023 goal by roughly 15,000 soldiers—the Pentagon has begun reaching out to some of those discharged to bring them back. As of early this month, more than two dozen soldiers have re-enlisted, according to Army officials.¹

The recruitment effort follows an executive order from President Trump, who pledged that military personnel discharged over COVID shot refusal would be reinstated and receive back pay. “Some of our best people were forced out,” Trump said, promising to rehire “every patriot who was fired from the military with backpay.”¹

The Biden administration’s COVID shot mandate for the U.S. military was implemented in August 2021, requiring all active-duty members to receive all recommended shots or face potential disciplinary action, including separation from service. The policy sparked controversy, particularly among those who had filed personal belief objections, including religious objections . By the time the mandate was rescinded, more than 8,700 members had been involuntarily discharged from the military for noncompliance.²

Apologies and Reenlistment Instructions Sent to Discharged Soldiers

So far, only the Army has seen reenlistments. The Marine Corps, Air Force, and Navy have launched informational websites but have not reported any discharged members returning to service. Tim Dill, currently performing the duties of Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, told reporters during a recent briefing that the Department plans to send “letters of apology” to those discharged under the mandate. Instructions for reenlistment will also be provided via email, phone calls, online portals, and social media.³

“The department is eager to welcome back those who were impacted by that vaccine mandate,” Hill said. “They never should’ve had to leave military service and the department is committed to assisting them in their return.”³

Longer Service Terms and Reduced Back Pay for Returning Soldiers

The Pentagon’s reinstatement offer, however, comes with new terms. While a Feb. 7, 2025 memo stated that those returning would be required to serve two years, an updated April 1 memo, signed by Jules Hurst III, Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel, significantly increased the requirement. “Reinstatement will not be afforded to those who are unwilling or unable to return to active service or active status, as applicable, for four years,” the memo reads. There are limited exceptions: servicemembers who were within two years of retirement at the time of their discharge can reenlist under the original two-year commitment.¹

Additionally, those drawn to the offer by the promise of back pay may receive far less than expected. The Pentagon has clarified that any wages earned during civilian employment—along with other compensation received—will be deducted from the back pay total. This adjustment could significantly lower final payouts, adding another wrench to stalled recruitment efforts. ¹

Recruitment Challenges and Public Skepticism Persist

The muted response to the reenlistment offer echoes concerns raised by military leaders in recent years, where some have suggested that for many discharged troops, the COVID shot mandate simply accelerated their departure from a career they were already ready to leave.¹

In 2023, Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth noted that only about 23 percent of young Americans between the ages of 18 and 24 are qualified for military service due to the inability to meet physical and mental health standards.⁴ She also acknowledged the growing institutional skepticism among younger generations, stating: “When you look at Generation Z, you see a lot of the declining trust in institutions.”⁵

As of now, the Army has reported that approximately 400 former soldiers have expressed interest in reenlisting, with around 100 actively undergoing the application process. Those seeking reinstatement must meet all current military health, fitness, and conduct standards. The deadline to reenlist is Feb. 28, 2026.¹

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