Tue Jan 28 01:30:26 UTC 2025: ## Trump Issues Executive Orders Reinstating Vaccine-Refusing Troops, Rolling Back Diversity Programs

**Washington, D.C. —** President Donald Trump initiated a series of executive orders on Monday, January 27, 2025, reinstating military personnel discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccines and further rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the armed forces. The actions come as newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth begins his term.

Trump announced the reinstatement of troops, stating they would be restored to their former rank and receive back pay. While the number of affected personnel is small (only 113 of approximately 8,200 discharged service members have re-enlisted since the option was made available in 2023), the financial implications for back pay remain to be seen. The reinstatement is conditional upon meeting current military entry standards.

The orders also include a directive to the Pentagon to develop a new policy regarding transgender troops’ service, based on military readiness. This follows Trump’s earlier removal of protections for transgender service members. The president also aims to further curtail DEI programs, a move that has already led to confusion and controversy, including the temporary removal and subsequent reinstatement of training materials featuring the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs).

Secretary Hegseth confirmed the orders, emphasizing a focus on military readiness and border security. He stated that the military would provide whatever resources are necessary to address the situation at the border. His confirmation was a close vote in the Senate, requiring a tie-breaking vote by Vice President J.D. Vance. Further executive orders are anticipated, including the development of an “Iron Dome” style air defense system for the U.S.

The Pentagon mandated COVID-19 vaccination for all service members in August 2021, a policy later rescinded in January 2023. Defense officials have indicated that many discharged personnel have since found new employment and are not interested in re-enlisting. The controversy surrounding the DEI initiatives and resulting actions highlight the ongoing struggle within the Defense Department to implement the president’s directives.

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