The Navy discharged 23 active-duty sailors over their refusal to get the COVID-19 vaccine, according to a Wednesday announcement.
The 23 sailors were all discharged with an “honorable characterization of service” following the branch’s November 28th vaccine deadline, The Hill reports.
The move brings the total number of vaccine removals to 45, after the branch discharged 22 sailors earlier this month.
As previously reported by Human Events News, the Pentagon announced in August that all service members must receive the COVID-19 vaccine. However, there are still 5,035 Navy sailors who remain unvaccinated, many of whom are awaiting religious accommodation.
Of all the military branches, only the Marine Corps has granted religious exemptions, which makes approval unlikely.