Former U.S. Army bomb disposal expert and current Florida Congressman Brian Mast commended President Trump's decision to reinstate service members dismissed for declining the COVID-19 vaccine. Mast expressed his support on Fox & Friends, calling it a victory for patriots and service members.
Mast criticized the broader trend during the pandemic of what he perceived as the removal of conservatives from government positions, including military academies and promotion boards, for their stance on the vaccine.
A White House fact sheet revealed that only a small fraction of the over 8,000 service members discharged under the Biden administration's vaccine mandate were later reinstated. Trump's order ensures that those returning to service will regain their previous rank, back pay, and benefits.
Mast previously introduced legislation aiming to reinstate service members who refused the vaccine. He expressed his anticipation for their return to duty and the sense of pride it would bring to them and their families.
Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) also praised Trump's decision, suggesting that many young people were hesitant about the government-backed vaccine and that Dr. Fauci's push for mandates was driven by a desire to avoid blame for the pandemic's origins.
This executive order fulfills a promise Trump made during his inaugural address. Newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also supported the reinstatement plan during his confirmation hearings.
