Defense Department officials are making it very clear that no matter the status, if you wear the uniform, you must be vaccinated against COVID-19. Some 98 percent of active-duty forces have received the vaccine. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III mandated that all service members receive the shots, including all reserve component members. "It is a lawful order," Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby said Dec. 21. "It is a valid military requirement” and applies to members of the National Guard. Unless there is an approved exemption, Guardsmen who refuse face repercussions and consequences, including loss of pay or ability to train, he said. Those who persist in failing to obey the order face discharge. Air National Guard personnel have until the end of 2021 to get the vaccinations. Army Guardsmen have until June 2022. (Source: DoD 12/21/21)
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