War secretary announces benefits reversal for vaccine mandate troops

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War Secretary Pete Hegseth said Friday he will restore payments and benefits for service members discharged over the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The move covers those who want to return to duty and those who do not.

Hegseth posted a video on X outlining the plan. He directed the creation of a Department of War COVID-19 reinstatement and Reconciliation Task Force to help troops rejoin the military if they choose. The task force will also address cases for former service members who prefer to stay out of uniform.

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