Fact-check · Nov 10, 2026 · Pete Hegseth
“We've reinstated over 600 service members who were forced out under the previous administration's COVID mandate.”
MISLEADING
What the record shows
As of July 2026, approximately 230 service members have been reinstated; more than 600 are in process or have expressed interest. The Air Force upgraded records for nearly 600 personnel, offering reinstatement opportunity.
The 600+ figure conflates those expressing interest or offered opportunities with those actually reinstated. Actual reinstatements number ~230 as of mid-2026.
Sources
- Air Force upgrades records for nearly 600 discharged over COVID-19 vaccine
- 230 troops discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccine have rejoined, Pentagon says
- 134 Airmen, Guardians Who Refused COVID Vaccine Back in Uniform
- Reinstating Service Members Unjustly Discharged Under ...
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Biden-Era COVID-19 Mandates That Broke the Ranks
From: LIVE: Pete Hegseth Holds Pentagon Press Briefing As Impeachment Effort Against Him Intensifies
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