On Monday night, President Donald Trump signed several executive orders aimed at reshaping military policies. These orders address diversity measures, transgender service members, and reinstating troops discharged over COVID-19 vaccine refusals.
Additionally, a new initiative for a homeland missile defense system, referred to as an “American Iron Dome,” was announced. The orders were signed aboard Air Force One as the president returned to Washington from Florida.
Key Changes to Military Policies
Reinstating Troops Discharged Over Vaccine Refusals
One of the executive orders reinstates service members discharged for refusing to comply with the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. According to Pentagon data, around 8,200 military personnel were discharged due to vaccine refusal.
However, the Biden administration had rescinded the vaccine mandate in January 2023. Since then, about 110 service members have rejoined the military. This order ensures that others affected can also return to service.
Policy on Transgender Service Members
President Trump directed the Pentagon to review policies regarding transgender individuals in the military. The new order calls for determining troop readiness policies within 30 days.
While it does not immediately ban transgender service members, the order highlights concerns regarding gender dysphoria and its potential impact on military readiness. It states that identifying as a gender inconsistent with one’s biological sex could conflict with the discipline required for military service.
At a House Republican retreat in Florida, Mr. Trump remarked, “To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military.”
Elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Policies
Another executive order targets DEI initiatives in the military. It bans race- or sex-based preferences across the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The order also directs a review of curriculums at service academies to eliminate DEI and “gender ideologies.”
During the GOP retreat, Mr. Trump emphasized his stance, stating, “I ordered the end to all of the lawless diversity, equity, and inclusion nonsense policies across the government and the military.”
This aligns with Mr. Trump’s broader plans to eliminate DEI initiatives across federal agencies. Federal DEI employees were reportedly placed on leave following an earlier announcement.
American Iron Dome: A Homeland Defense Shield
President Trump also signed an executive order to begin developing a missile defense shield referred to as the “American Iron Dome.” Modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome system, this initiative aims to bolster homeland security by intercepting potential missile threats.
These executive orders reflect President Trump’s vision for reshaping the U.S. military to prioritize readiness and traditional values. From reinstating troops discharged over vaccine refusals to redefining diversity and gender policies, the administration’s changes aim to streamline military operations and enhance national security. The introduction of a homeland missile defense system further highlights a focus on safeguarding U.S. territory.
These policies are expected to draw both support and criticism as they reshape the structure and philosophy of military governance. However, their impact on military readiness and inclusivity will likely be a key topic of debate in the coming months.