United States Air Force Offers Reinstatement for Members Discharged Over COVID-19 Vaccine Refusal
In a significant move to correct the record and restore the careers of those affected by the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, the Department of the Air Force has announced that service members who were involuntarily separated solely for refusing the vaccine will now have a pathway to reinstatement. The Army, Marines, Coast Guard, Navy, National Guard are each developing their own guidance. And we have been proudly representing all branches over the course of CitizenSoldierLaw’s 12 years of existence.
This policy, published by the Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs on April 7, 2025, outlines a standardized review process by which the military departments will evaluate discharge records. The goal is to identify those whose separations were based solely on vaccine refusal. If that is clearly indicated in the member’s records, they will be deemed eligible for reinstatement. Where records are unclear, the military will contact former service members directly for clarification.
Direct Outreach and Streamlined Application Process
Eligible individuals will be contacted through mail, email (if available) and phone by uniformed representatives. They will be invited to apply for reinstatement and guided through a streamlined process designed to reduce red tape. The offer includes a detailed explanation of the potential financial benefits and requires a four-year service commitment upon reinstatement. A two-year option may be available for those who were within two years of retirement eligibility at the time of separation.
Physical and Medical Screening with Waiver Flexibility
Applicants will undergo pre-screening at Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS). While the screening will follow standard military accession requirements, the ultimate eligibility determination will be based on retention standards. Waivers will be applied liberally, and only a presidentially appointed, Senate-confirmed official can deny a waiver.
Correction Boards Prioritized for Vaccine-Related Cases
The Boards for Correction of Military and Naval Records (BCM/NRs) have been instructed to prioritize these reinstatement requests. If the boards find that an error or injustice occurred, they may order a full reinstatement without a break in service. This could include restoration of rank, credit for lost service time, and back pay. Final disapproval authority lies with each service secretary.
Retirement Credit and Compensation Estimates
The reinstatement process includes assistance in estimating pay and benefits. For those who were serving full-time, the gap in service will be credited toward active-duty retirement. Reserve members may receive points toward retirement under 10 U.S.C. § 12732(a)(2), with a minimum of 50 points annually.
A Window to Return—Or Seek Other Relief
Once a former service member receives their compensation estimate, they will have 60 days to formally accept reinstatement. Those who decline may still petition the BCM/NR for relief, such as discharge upgrades or record corrections. It is important to note that this policy does not apply to individuals discharged for misconduct unrelated to the vaccine refusal.
At Citizen Soldier Law, we are closely monitoring these developments. If you or someone you know was discharged due to the vaccine mandate and are considering reinstatement or petitioning the BCM/NR for other relief, we are here to assist.
