Trump Signs Order to Reinstate Troops Discharged Over COVID-19 Vaccine Refusal

The order directs the military to reinstate troops who were removed because they did not comply with the government’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

President Donald Trump speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Jan. 21, 2025. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

President Donald Trump on Jan. 27 signed an order that paves the way for troops discharged for refusing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to rejoin the U.S. military, with full back pay.

Those former military members can request to be reinstated and will revert to their former rank and receive full back pay, benefits, bonus payments, or compensation, according to the order.