WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today commended President Trump and Secretary Hegseth on their continued efforts to prioritize reinstatement and military discharge upgrades of service members who were separated as a result of the misguided COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

“As part of this year’s budget reconciliation legislation, we explicitly provided $50 million in funding for timely reinstatements and backpay for service members who were forced out and wish to serve again. Pursuant to President Trump’s executive order, Secretary Hegseth has directed a review of personnel records for these affected individuals, and we expect that backpay will be made soon.”

“Americans who stood ready to defend this nation should never have faced career-ending consequences because of this unnecessary and divisive policy. I appreciate the department's commitment to correcting these injustices, restoring honor, and helping affected individuals return to duty if they so choose. Regardless of their decision to return to service, their records should be reviewed swiftly to ensure those eligible receive appropriate discharge upgrades and full access to the benefits they rightfully earned.

“Under the Biden administration, the military departments hastily separated more than 8,000 troops for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine—during a recruiting crisis, no less. We owe these men and women the same speed and transparency in returning those to service who wish to return and reversing any harm done to their careers. The department’s effort to expedite reinstatements and restore lost compensation is a necessary and welcome step.”