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Pentagon Begins Removing Transgender Troops Following Supreme Court Ruling

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sets deadlines for voluntary separations and initiates medical reviews to enforce the transgender military ban reinstated by President Trump.

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The Pentagon building is seen in Arlington, Virginia, U.S. October 9, 2020. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File Photo
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth arrives before President Donald Trump speaks on his first 100 days at Macomb County Community College Sports Expo Center, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Warren, Mich. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Overview

  • The Supreme Court's May 6 decision allowed the Trump administration to enforce a ban on transgender individuals serving in the U.S. military while legal challenges proceed.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's May 8 memo sets deadlines of June 6 for active-duty troops and July 7 for reservists to voluntarily separate from service.
  • Approximately 1,000 transgender service members who have self-identified will begin the voluntary separation process immediately, according to Pentagon officials.
  • The Department of Defense will review medical records to identify additional service members with gender dysphoria for involuntary separation starting after the deadlines.
  • Civil rights groups continue to challenge the ban in lower courts, arguing it violates equal protection guarantees and undermines military readiness.