Military has vaccinated less than one-third of the force as many troops refuse COVID jab

The Department of Defense confirmed Monday it will open COVID-19 vaccination appointments to all members of the military, even though some of the highest-priority soldiers deploying to war zones and in other critical roles continue to refuse the inoculation.

For months, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has encouraged service members to get vaccinated, speaking to troops and recording a public service announcement that has run in tandem with incentives offered by lower-level commanders. Still, some are refusing to take the vaccine, and the department is now opening up vaccination appointments to military members in lower levels of priority in accordance with a Monday goal set by President Joe Biden to have all adults eligible for their jabs.