Conservative military veterans are sounding the alarm over a new Department of Defense reinstatement form that they say whitewashes the truth about their forced separations during the COVID-19 vaccine mandate era.
Veterans who once wore the uniform with honor are now being told that if they want back in, they must lie on paper and pretend they left the military of their own free will.
The Department of Defense has released updated guidance officially inviting back thousands of service members who were involuntarily separated for refusing to comply with the now-defunct COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
The move comes under Executive Order 14184, signed by President Donald Trump on January 27, 2025, and implemented by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
The order compels the Pentagon to offer reinstatement to any military personnel—active or reserve—who were forced out solely for refusing the COVID shot.
The new policy outlines a comprehensive process for both involuntary and voluntary separations.
For those involuntarily discharged, the Military Departments are tasked with identifying and contacting eligible former service members, offering them reinstatement through the Boards for Correction of Military/Naval Records (BCM/NRs).
The process includes medical pre-screening, expedited record reviews, and potential financial benefits like back pay, restored rank, and credit for lost service time, subject to offsets such as wages earned post-separation.
Reinstatement requires a four-year service commitment, with a two-year option for those nearing retirement eligibility.
Service members who voluntarily left or allowed their service to lapse to avoid vaccination can also apply to return.
They must submit a sworn statement attesting to their decision and meet retention standards.
While re-accession restores rank and pay, it does not include back pay or other retroactive benefits unless pursued separately through standard BCM/NR processes.
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