Hegseth Extends ‘Return to Service’ Deadline, Allows Troops Back Until 2027

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is extending the Pentagon’s return-to-service window for troops affected by the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, giving them until April 1, 2027 to come back. The department says its reinstatement guidance is being extended by an additional year, while Hegseth’s public message called the returning members “Warriors of Conscience.”