In an emotionally charged video statement, Under Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao publicly apologized to the sailors and Marines who were discharged from service for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine mandate imposed during the previous administration. Cao, a decorated veteran and the 35th Under Secretary, acknowledged the mandate as unlawful and unjust, labeling it a failure of leadership that upended the lives of dedicated service members. He signed a formal apology letter on behalf of the Department of the Navy, emphasizing that these individuals were “warriors of conscience” who deserved better from their country. This moment, captured on camera and shared across social media platforms, marked a significant reversal of policy under the new administration, highlighting a commitment to rectifying past wrongs.

Cao’s apology extended beyond words, as he vowed to reinstate those affected and ensure such mandates never recur. Referencing Executive Order 14184, which deemed the original August 2021 mandate “unfair, overbroad, and completely unnecessary,” he outlined efforts to welcome back discharged personnel and correct their military records. This includes pathways for re-enlistment and addressing any lingering administrative barriers, aiming to restore careers disrupted by the policy. Cao’s firm stance—“We will never allow this to happen again”—resonated with many, positioning the Navy’s actions as a broader push for accountability and trust restoration within the ranks.

The apology comes amid a Pentagon-wide review of COVID-era separations, affecting not just the Navy and Marines but other branches like the Army and Air Force. While praised by supporters as “righting a wrong,” it has sparked debate over military discipline, vaccine policies, and the implications for future mandates on other vaccines. Critics question the precedent it sets for insubordination, but proponents argue it upholds individual rights and rebuilds morale in a post-pandemic era. Cao’s initiative underscores a shift in priorities, focusing on supporting warfighters and preventing overreach in health directives.

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