In a sweeping move, former President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders on Monday aimed at reshaping the US military. The orders eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, reinstate thousands of troops discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccines, and address policies related to transgender service members.
The orders were signed as Trump flew back to Washington from Miami, marking a significant shift in military policy. One of the orders, titled Eliminating Gender Radicalism in the Military, appears to target transgender troops, though the full text was not immediately available. This move echoes Trump’s 2017 announcement to ban transgender individuals from serving, a policy that was partially implemented but later overturned by President Biden in 2021.
Another key order focuses on reinstating service members who were dismissed for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. During the pandemic, the Pentagon mandated vaccinations, leading to the removal of thousands of troops. Trump’s order seeks to bring these individuals back into active duty, fulfilling a promise made during his campaign.
Pl watch the video and subscribe to the YouTube channel of republicpolicy.com for quality podcasts:
Trump’s anti-DEI order has already impacted military training programs. The US Air Force announced it would resume using a video about the Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military aviators, after ensuring it complies with the new restrictions. Pete Hegseth, the newly confirmed Defense Secretary, has made eliminating DEI programs a top priority, signaling a broader cultural shift within the Pentagon.
The order targeting “gender radicalism” has sparked concerns among LGBTQ+ advocates. While the exact details remain unclear, it is seen as a continuation of Trump’s earlier efforts to restrict transgender individuals from serving. Approximately 1.3 million active personnel serve in the military, with estimates of transgender service members ranging from a few thousand to 15,000.
In addition to personnel policies, Trump signed an order mandating the development of an “American Iron Dome.” Inspired by Israel’s short-range air defense system, the Iron Dome intercepts rockets, mortars, and drones. The US-backed system has been highly effective in protecting Israeli cities from attacks. Implementing a similar system in the US would likely take years but reflects Trump’s focus on bolstering national defense.
These executive orders mark a significant departure from the Biden administration’s policies, emphasizing a return to Trump’s vision for the military. By reinstating discharged troops, rolling back DEI initiatives, and addressing transgender service policies, Trump aims to reshape the armed forces in line with his broader agenda.
As these changes take effect, they are expected to spark debate over the role of diversity and inclusion in the military and the balance between personal freedoms and national security.
