Pentagon Vaccination Mandate for U.S. Service Members & Why We Should Welcome It

MG Gale Pollock — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:17:12 -0400

As an Army nurse with 36 years of service, I enjoyed the trust and confidence of a large number of our military members and their families. So as a nurse, I wanted to offer some reasons we should welcome the announcement that vaccination against COVID is now required. I also want to offer some thoughts on the concerns that are voiced when people talk about not wanting to participate in the vaccination program.

First, the military has an incredible focus on safety--and all of us have seen or heard about tragedy or job loss when the safety of self and others is ignored. One of our most focused efforts is minimizing risk. Vaccination does that. Are there risks to vaccination--yes. There are risks in all medical interventions and treatments of disease--but the risks from COVID are higher.

Second, military members all take an oath when we enter--to protect and defend against enemies--foreign and domestic. The COVID virus is a domestic enemy--it has already killed more people than we have on active duty in the Navy and AirForce. If we don’t take the lead here to guide our Nation, we will have failed to protect those citizens who count on us. It is a foreign enemy as well--all of our allies are fighting it at the same time we are.

Third, when we are vaccinated, we are protecting one another just like we would do on other battlefields of war. When we are entering a contaminated area or expect a chemical, biological or nuclear threat, we use protective equipment and insure that all our battle buddies are correctly wearing that equipment. In the battle against COVID, vaccination is one of the key protective devices.

Even with those three important reasons to be vaccinated--some people are still concerned about the vaccine so let’s get some of that out here. First, some think the vaccination was developed too quickly. We could not predict exactly when a dangerous virus would attack, but we understood there were dangerous viruses out there. With the advantages of computers and our understanding of the structure of DNA and RNA brought to the fight, researchers worked tirelessly to identify potential vaccinations. The use of mRNA in vaccines has been studied for decades, for instance – with long trials testing its safety. This meant the technique could be quickly adapted for the pandemic: https://rly.pt/2VBpUkE. In addition, laboratories can run experiments and trials in parallel, just like we break tasks into steps and know that some can be done at the same time and then brought together to accomplish the mission. These researchers know that technique also. I am grateful they worked quickly to help protect and save lives--it is the same that we do each day as we support and defend..

Second, some say vaccination should not be required--but let’s look at other requirements that are part of a national public safety effort--driver licenses, seatbelts, speed limits, and not driving under the influence. Each of them place some limits on us, but serve to help reduce risk and save lives - the exact same outcome we are seeking with vaccinations.

Third, some groups of people think they are not at risk and therefore don’t need a vaccination. Unfortunately, this virus mutates and gets stronger. That is why hospitalization and deaths are occurring among the unvaccinated population.

Finally, it is normal to have concerns or fears when we face new demands or circumstances--it is a strength of our military to adapt and overcome. It is why the world often considers us heroes. Let’s work together, get vaccinated and protect those whom we have taken our oath to defend.

Understanding mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines

Learn more about how mRNA vaccines trigger our immune systems to produce antibodies that protect us against COVID-19.

Response by SrA John Monette made Sep 10 at 2021 10:21 AM

SrA John Monette — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:21:40 -0400

Well put General. It's too bad that so many people will listen to someone with absolutely no knowledge about disease and vaccines instead of those who are in the know.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Sep 10 at 2021 10:26 AM

LTC Eugene Chu — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:26:33 -0400

Ma'am,

Excellent opinion about the need of mandatory COVID vaccination for military service members. It is also part of our history based on George Washington mandating smallpox inoculation for Continental Army members during a pandemic in Revolutionary War times.

https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/smallpox/

Smallpox

In the early years of the American Revolution, George Washington faced an invisible killer that he had?

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Sep 10 at 2021 10:27 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:27:50 -0400

Thank you for the informative share ma'am, also thank you for your dedicated service to our great country MG Gale Pollock

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2021 10:45 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:45:46 -0400

This is by far one of the most well put an well thought out posts I've read in regards to one personal opinion. Strictly medical, not political nor conspirious.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Sep 10 at 2021 2:27 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 14:27:01 -0400

Ma'am clicking a seatbelt across my chest isn't the same as somone injecting an unknown medicine or other liquid into my arm and telling me there are some bad side effects that I should be aware of.

They don't know what they are just yet because you are currently our lab rats and we'll watch you first. If you develope a nasty disease or symptom it will be dually noted.

Then we will gather your children and grand children and inject them even though the death rate of a child is currently at .10 of 1 % and they shouldn't need a vaccination. But we are going to do it anyway and see what happens?

No vaccine is 100 percent effective all the time, and certain people could have a higher chance of developing a serious COVID-19 case even if they're vaccinated.

So you are saying I could get very sick, it won't stop me from spreading it to others and it may not even protect me? I have had the virus twice and I know my body is protected by the Anti-bodies my own body produced and this was verified by the Red Cross.

So keep your un-tested shot because that's what it is. A vaccine is medicine that is proven to work which this is not and the tests aren't in yet on this rush to production, rush to use. This is my humble opinion and others may arrive at the same or similiar conclusions.

Response by LT Charles Baird made Sep 11 at 2021 1:03 AM

LT Charles Baird — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 01:03:53 -0400

Let me just touch the first three points:

First…There are risks in all medical interventions and treatments of disease--but the risks from COVID are higher.
According to the CDCs website the numbers in the United States as of September 10, 2021 are as follows:
Confirmed Cases: 41,387,625
Deaths: 669,184
Percentage of people who die = 0.0161%
Equating to a survival rate of 99.984%

Influenza Numbers according to the CDC’s Website:

The CDC estimates that influenza has resulted in between 9 million and 45 million illnesses and between 12,000 and 61,000 deaths ANNUALLY since 2010.
So taking the high numbers of 45 million Confirmed Illnesses and 61,100 deaths ANNUALLY you end up with:
Confirmed Cases 45 Million (45,000,000)
Deaths: 61,100
Percentage of people who die = 0.0135%
Equating to a survival rate of: 99.986%

Difference = 0.002% more deaths due to Influenza
Based on the numbers from the CDC it would seem that the risk of dying from the flu are higher.

Second, military members all take an oath when we enter--to protect and defend against enemies--foreign and domestic.
Actually the oath says to Defend the CONSTITUTION from all enemies foreign and domestic – KEY WORD here is CONSTITUTION. No where does it mention the American public (maybe it should, but it doesn't so let's keep it in context). I, ____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

Third, when we are vaccinated, we are protecting one another just like we would do on other battlefields of war.
Over 90% of those on Active Service never see a battlefield of war – most don’t even get deployed to a hostile area and those that do most of them do not see any battle and never pull a trigger. Less than 1% of all military members see actual combat. So your really not protecting one another on other battlefields of war if your not on the battlefield. Now I know people will say you don't actually have to be on the battlefield to protect one another - yeah, you do - making sure my pay goes in each pay period, or MRE's are sent forward, or sitting is a cushy pentagon office chair is not protecting me on the battlefield, being right next to me in the foxhole taking fire alongside me and providing cover fire is protecting me (this is just an example).

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2021 2:43 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 14:43:25 -0400

https://nypost.com/2021/09/07/wuhan-lab-documents-show-fauci-untruthful-about-research-critics/

If I am reading this right: The guy that made COVID has been leading us through how to survive it, and now is advising our top leaders to trust his friends in companies he has financial ties to force all of us to use their product to fight the disease he made?

Wuhan lab documents show Fauci ‘untruthful’ about gain-of-function research: critics

Richard Ebright, a molecular biologist at Rutgers University, said the documents made it clear Dr. Fauci had been “untruthful” about gain-of-function research.

Response by MSgt George Murray made Sep 15 at 2021 6:16 AM

MSgt George Murray — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 06:16:20 -0400

Thank you for bringing this to light. It's important for our service members to remember, we all signed on that dotted line and I was proud to do it. We were taught to obey and whether or not you agree with the President or not but he is our boss.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Sep 15 at 2021 7:09 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:09:24 -0400

Well, here come all the luddites to argue with a 36 year healthcare professional who performed so admirably that she ascended to Major General in her field...

Response by CMSgt Randy Beck made Sep 15 at 2021 9:35 AM

CMSgt Randy Beck — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 09:35:31 -0400

Ma'am, you did a great job explaining why we should all be vaccinated, very positive indeed. What you failed to address though is the side effects and how many people have already died from the injection. It is not a vaccine, how many people are now dealing with crippling side effects because of this world wide experiment? Also you did not explain why more people who are "vaccinated" are getting the variants than those who are not vaccinated. I do not feel it (COVID 19) is a domestic enemy, it came from China. If there is a domestic enemy here, it Dr. Fauci and his funding of the projects that lead to this pandemic. After my 30 plus years of mandatory injections, I think I should be able to decide on my own what should and should not go into my body for the rest of my God given days.

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Sep 15 at 2021 4:37 PM

SFC Randy Hellenbrand — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 16:37:18 -0400

You rock Ma'am. There are a lot of liars on here who are trying to destroy us from within.

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made Sep 15 at 2021 7:35 PM

CPO Arthur Weinberger — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 19:35:21 -0400

Thank you for highly informative pro0safety article.

Response by SSgt Michelle Witt made Sep 16 at 2021 8:23 AM

SSgt Michelle Witt — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:23:13 -0400

No one has the right to tell another human being what to put into their body. Period. I'm not anti-vax, but it is the decision of the individual to take the jab. If these vaccines were truly preventive, like the polio, smallpox or MMR vaccines it would be a different story. This vaccine is essentially like the flu vaccine in the way it protects against specific strains of the virus. As the virus mutates, as all viruses do, the efficacy of the vaccine decreases. The vaccines that are currently available are for the original strain of covid. Not the mutated variants that have occurred since. Do they still offer a level of protection? Yes, but the level and duration are unknown. In contrast, those who've had covid gain robust antibodies against all strains of the virus. Am I advocating for everyone to get Covid? Of course not. But early treatment (upon exposure to a covid positive person or upon onset of symptoms) with doctor approved protocols reduces hospitalizations and deaths by over 78%. Additionally, it is important to note that the Pfizer brand vaccine is NOT FDA approved. The EUA for the Pfizer vaccine was extended by the FDA in order to indemnify Pfizer. There are two distinct Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines. The second, which received full FDA approval, is Comirnaty and is NOT currently available in the US. To my limited knowledge, the only difference between the two is that one is approved and one is under EUA, but that's a major difference as Pfizer/Biontech can be held legally responsible for vaccine injuries for Comirnaty, but not for the Pfizer branded vaccine. Last time I checked, Comirnaty was not expected to be available in the US before the end of October, if then. That makes all vaccine mandates technically illegal without even considering the infringement upon an individual's civil liberties.

Bottom line, everyone should do their research (thorough research and NOT using Google that blocks any info outside of the party line) and come to their own conclusions.

Response by PFC Ray Gibb made Sep 16 at 2021 11:08 AM

PFC Ray Gibb — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 11:08:02 -0400

I really do not understand the Contraversy. When I was in, we were told to line up remove our shirts roll up our sleeves and walk through the line getting whatever shot was needed.

We were not told what it was for, but given warnings of after effects.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Sep 16 at 2021 12:51 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 12:51:55 -0400

Knowing that everyone you come in contact with is vaccinated can be a relief

Response by SP6 Greg Jetter made Sep 17 at 2021 3:47 PM

SP6 Greg Jetter — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 15:47:11 -0400

So , what healthy young people are dropping like flies after taking a VaXX that not really a VAXX but
is an experimental technology , so what there is a possibility that up too 20% of the entire fighting force would be combat ineffective because of side effects of the jab.... who cares , because you and the brass made their numbers on paper , the brass looks good and now when the chief of staff commits treason again with his next phone call to China , he can report that he and his fellow officers have effectively eliminated the American armed forces as an obstacle to their take over .... yep who gives a shit you will still get your pension and so will the traitors who are now running the show .
yea that something you can be proud of and tell your grand kids if any of them are left alive .....

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2021 4:00 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:00:16 -0400

Thanks General. It's a mixed bag on RP re: vax and COVID.

Response by SFC Will Hallstead made Sep 18 at 2021 6:39 PM

SFC Will Hallstead — Sat, 18 Sep 2021 18:39:06 -0400

Wow! I can’t believe you are comparing this to seatbelts, driver’s licenses etc. It should my right to decide what is injected into my body. I’m not in the military anymore. My uncle just died after getting the vaccine and then got COVID. Or doesn’t work!!!!!!

Response by SFC Richard Baerlocher made Sep 18 at 2021 6:56 PM

SFC Richard Baerlocher — Sat, 18 Sep 2021 18:56:59 -0400

What happened to being marched to the medics to get shots as a complete unit. In 1976 when we had the Swine Flu scare, we were marched through the shotv line to get the vaccinations. After we had recieved the vaccinations we were told that we were the test subject because there wasn't enough time to test the vaccine otherwise because of the approaching flu season, and as we were in Hawaii we were closer to the origin of the Swine Flu. The majority of us agreed that it needed to be done to protect the nation.

Response by SrA Hal Nelson made Sep 20 at 2021 7:17 PM

SrA Hal Nelson — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 19:17:43 -0400

My attitude toward this unproven, untested vaccine and those that would force it on us is the same as my feelings about abortion: I am pro-choice.

Response by MSgt George Murray made Sep 21 at 2021 10:51 AM

MSgt George Murray — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 10:51:28 -0400

I have two friends that are nurses, one works for a major hospital here in Florida and the other at a major VA hospital in New England. Both of them have told me that 90% of the people they are seeing in the ER are folks that haven't received the vaccine at all. They both went on to explain that there are many other, other underlining conditions and they are seeing people who smoke, over weight, heart conditions and other conditions that the person didn't know they had until they were in the ER. I don't think we can assume anything, we are all different. Another thing they told me is that those who are way over weight and not the ones that are just 10 or 15 lbs over but those that are obese, the ones that can't touch their toes etc etc. My friend that works at the VA hospital said that the service guys and gals that have done a good job of watching their weight have tried to keep in shape have faired much much better than those who haven't. She said it's a terrible thing to see someone come into the ER that can't breath. Watching someone gasping for breath is an awful thing to witness.

The one thing they both agree on also is that the vaccine is important, very important along with the masks. The nurse that works for a major hospital here in Florida, him and I were stationed together in Panama. Both of these people I would trust with my life.

There is no doubt that this subject will be the talk of the town for many years, we need to make the best of it. My wife and I love to cruise but until this is all wrapped up, our cruising days are done. We all have to make sacrifices.

Response by 1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel made Sep 23 at 2021 1:29 PM

1st Lt Padre Dave Poedel — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 13:29:25 -0400

Please indulge me as I step out of my former medical role and into my current role as a Pastor. In a time in our history, Americans have a great deal of autonomy, and at the same time are concerned about the “other” (meaning not “me”).

When we enter the military, whether by enlistment or by commissioning, we voluntarily offer to our fellow Americans that we will forego some of the constitutional rights that we paradoxically join in order to protect them. We swear that we will obey the orders of those placed over us, and yet because we are Americans, we are always testing the boundaries of those orders.

Lately it is obvious that more and more things are being made political; there is less trust in those who we place in authority; America appears to have turned her back on God, even as we formerly defined Him. We feel a need to assert our independence while remaining under orders of those over us. The general destruction of trust between the government and the citizens is placing us in a more extreme situation than I have observed in my 68 years of life.

This vaccine mandate is the “eye of the perfect storm” for many of us right now. When President Trump assured us that he “has our back”, many of us believed him and trusted him. It is apparent now that he lacked the patience and experience to ride out shifts in political thinking, and he certainly contributed to some of the tribalism we see now. Following the tumultuous term of President Trump, we have what many (most?_of us feel was a less than transparent election of President Joe Biden. I do not think I am being combative when I say that our current president is cognitively challenged, and truthfully is as deep a thinker as President Trump was. 330 million Americans, and these two guys are the best we can present for election?

The COVID vaccine was developed and produced by the Trump Administration is mind-blowingly fast time, using a vaccine technology that was new and untested over the long term, using a very novel and quite clever mRNA as a surface antigen. The vaccine appears to be quite effective in stimulating our body to produce antibodies and memory T-cellls, though there is some doubt about that now. President Trump deserves all of the praise for this innovation in record time….of course we don’t know all of the “sausage making” that went into the issue, but let’s give credit where it is due.

The Biden Administration is a continuation of the Obama Administration in that the same people are running the government in front and behind the scenes. These are “deep State” folks who are quite adept as using the bureaucracy to their advantage, and to the advantage of their friends. The deep-State was so grossly insulted by the fact that the American people elected an outsider like Donald Trump and displayed their disgust in public and throughout the deep State bureaucracies to make him look ridiculously out of touch (and he played along very convincingly at times).

This administration made some very inflammatory statements about the COVID vaccine process and are now having to find a way to eat their words as they ask citizens (including those under military orders) to disregard everything they said about the vaccine and now receive it without question.

OK, that is enough for today……God bless all y’all!

Response by GySgt David Weihausen made Sep 23 at 2021 1:35 PM

GySgt David Weihausen — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 13:35:49 -0400

This is not a vaccine. It does NOT prevent the recipient from getting the virus. It does not prevent said person from spreading the virus if they do catch it. By definition, then, it cannot be called a vaccine, just as the flu shot is not a vaccine. All that it can do is hopefully reduce the severity so that you have a better chance of recovery. That being said, there are many cases where recipients of the "vaccine" have had or are continuing to have, severe complications from taking "the vaccine." This should be an individual choice. Seatbelts, speed limits, and sobriety are requirements involving a privilege (driving a vehicle is a privilege, not a right) whereas, living your life is a right and should not be infringed upon by a dictatorial decree by a tyrannical government. You are not protecting others by taking "the vaccine;" it is an attempt to lessen the severity of the virus should you get it. Just as you expect to take the consequence when you choose to put yourself in danger, each individual should be responsible to expect the consequences of their decision to receive or not receive "the vaccine."

Response by MSgt Phil "PIMP" Freeman made Sep 23 at 2021 2:28 PM

MSgt Phil "PIMP" Freeman — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:28:51 -0400

We should NOT welcome it. We are weakening our military. Soon it will be all left leaning trans people. Poop show

Response by MSgt Phil "PIMP" Freeman made Sep 23 at 2021 2:29 PM

MSgt Phil "PIMP" Freeman — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:29:38 -0400

We shouldn’t welcome it.
Next question

Response by Cpl Reginald Whitcomb Jr. made Sep 23 at 2021 3:58 PM

Cpl Reginald Whitcomb Jr. — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 15:58:32 -0400

Less deadly than the flu...

Stop saying vaccine... vaccines provide immunity, none of these covid shots has proven to be effective.

Response by Lt Col John Plaza made Sep 23 at 2021 5:41 PM

Lt Col John Plaza — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 17:41:13 -0400

The reason service members are required to get vaccinations is to maintain combat readiness. There is, or should not be, any other reason. The article doesn't even mention this. If Covid has caused a serious drop in combat readiness that puts our nation at greater risk then the chain of command should mandate it. It should only be mandated by the Commander in Chief if his senior military advisors have asked for such a mandate. Military readiness is of course classified data so I do not know how great the impact Covid has had on the military as I have been retired for 13 years and no longer have a clearance or need to know. If the decision was made due to readiness then I'm all for it. If it was made for purely political reasons, then that is disappointing.

The article was written by a O-8 in the medical career field but she makes no mention of combat readiness or impact on the military health care system? That implies that combat readiness has not been impacted significantly or that there have been significant number of cases involving hospitalization or she would have addressed it. Combine this with the fact that this is a disease of the old and infirm that has minimal impact on young healthy bodies and my suspicion is aroused.

Response by Capt Edward Egan made Sep 23 at 2021 9:39 PM

Capt Edward Egan — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 21:39:47 -0400

When George III issued mandates to us colonists through his British enforcers, we started shooting them, and created a new country with an emphasis on individual freedom and self-determination, known as endowed rights.

A "mandate" from this illegitimate Administration should be considered in the same fashion as 2 males holding hands as they venture out together for dinner and a movie. That's the kind of man-date that liberals like.

The vaccine is of dubious efficacy, the pathogen itself is not very effective against the fit and younger population (which should describe our Armed Forces members), and natural and acquired immunity through our immune systems is not only a stronger defense but is more adaptive in its defensive ability, and on a permanent basis. In every respect, the vaccines presented so far are of an experimental nature, as there is not a single long-term study of either effectiveness or of long-term deleterious side effects. Remember thalidomide, for instance?

The mandate itself is of very dubious legitimacy and has yet to pass Constitutional review (which it would fail) being an involuntary invasion of the very nature of one's physical self. Shall we next look at forced sterilizations and castrations (hormone therapy included) to prevent pregnancies, sexual diseases, sexual attractions, compulsions and assaults? Certainly those issues are destructive of our abilities to construct and conduct a strong national defense. Perhaps we can discover a surgery or a drug that will eliminate fear; that would be a boon on the battlefield.

Refusal should have the same strength and validity as the 1st, 4th, and 5th Amendments

I did not raise my hand for this, nor did any veteran or serving member. Should some voluntarily choose after full disclosure, without coercion or duress, to be perhaps a guinea pig, then that's their freedom. Unwise perhaps, but that's their freedom to be reckless, ill-advised or stupid. And make no mistake, this "legal order" policy is reckless.

As constituted under this "lawful order", there is no undo, reset or do-over should it be discovered in the future that we've implanted a time bomb. "Ooops, I'm sorry" won't cut it. A Nuremberg Defense is invalid.

Nope, I respectfully decline, thank you.

Response by SP5 Derick Johnsohne made Sep 23 at 2021 9:54 PM

SP5 Derick Johnsohne — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 21:54:47 -0400

all for it . we didnt have any choice when walking between the two rows of medics with their guns loaded when we joined . end of subject . did we have any choice during the polio epidemic ? i am thankful we didnt .

Response by SGT Aaron Atwood made Sep 24 at 2021 11:38 AM

SGT Aaron Atwood — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 11:38:45 -0400

I'm concerned over how much political bias is behind this vaccine. I'm even more concerned with how its creation and production were rushed. My Swiss penpal said everyone over there was super concerned about its effectiveness and potential side effects for that very reason. I also feel that those who're concerned about long term side effects have valid concerns. This is way too new a vaccine to know what the long term effects are.

I don't like the idea that those of us vaccinated are still required to wear masks. To me that's admitting the vaccine isn't as effective as they'd like us to think. It also shows a level of distrust between the government and the people they're supposed to serve. If they said to wear a mask when you're sick, like they do in a lot of Asian countries, and then leave it on the honor system I wouldn't be as concerned. I also agree with Mike Rowe when he mentioned that the very sources of information, whether a person or organization, that we used to take seriously have by and large lost their credibility with the American people by this point in time; so lots of citizens have valid concerns behind the legitimacy of taking the vaccine just because we were told to.

I also wonder how many good servicemembers we're going to lose by next year because they were discharged simply because the government didn't want to respect their choice not to get the vaccine.

Response by CPT Brad Wilson made Sep 24 at 2021 11:51 PM

CPT Brad Wilson — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 23:51:38 -0400

Why the complaining about this vacine??? In my 22 years I have had probably close to 100 shots including Plague Anthrax and Smallpox even though I had that as a child. Most were boosters others were for diseases present in an area I deployed to or were mandatory to enter the country I was going to. They were all “mandatory” unless you had an allergy or other medical condition that made it unsafe for you to have a certain vaccine it’s part of the job and it’s to keep you as healthy as possible

Response by FN Steve Heglmeier made Sep 25 at 2021 2:14 PM

FN Steve Heglmeier — Sat, 25 Sep 2021 14:14:00 -0400

I would like to add I'm familiar with and have invested in mRNA technology for over a decade. I'm speaking from the quarterly and annual reports. The mRNA vaccines have been in human trials for over a decade. We have been experimenting with leukemia, other cancers, dementia, and alzheimer's,(the last two are my main concerns with them running in my family) but when Covid came along Covid was adapted to the mRNA technology. That's why I believe it was delivered so fast. No success really happens overnight, we just don't see the decade of work that went in before the "overnight success."

I also like the Moderna, not just because I'm invested in it, but I know a Dr that ran a trial on the Moderna vaccine here in the US, and he told me it's one of the most successful trials he's conducted, and he's closer to retirement than the prime of his career. So back in February 2021 I had my second shot. Not only have I not had any problems, but I've carried my anti-vax friends to the hospital for a several hour visit to get a 20 minute injection followed by a 1 hour observation, they had no beds so they wouldn't admit them.
I didn't get the virus. I was concerned, but had no issues, the last trip was over 2 weeks ago and still Covid free. Funny how it's their vaccinated friends who will give them a ride to the ER.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2021 10:21 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 10:21:00 -0400

After reading a number of the comments here, I can and will address some of the questions and thoughts. First, as the General notes this vaccine was not developed “quickly”. What the world saw for the first time on stage was the scientific process at work. We also saw what dumping billions of dollars and man hours into something can actually do. There were no short cuts taken. There is more research that has been done into this vaccine than most of the medications you put in your body everyday. (I.e. viagra or the anthrax vaccine)

People have a problem with the tests that were done saying they were too quick. So for that the randomized tests that were completed had more patients than almost any other test in history. Reason being, this was world wide. A researcher could go anywhere and enroll subjects. For a normal drug trial there has to be money, and a suitable amount of patients. This trial had both. So it was able to move very quickly. Often the hard part is finding funding to run the trials and then getting enough patients. That can take years. In this case it was done in a few weeks.

The vaccine is so new. In reality this type of vaccine has been around for decades. It has been fully tested. The delivery system has been fully tested. So the test was merely on the payload it was delivering. No different than firing a different round from your weapon. It has never been mainstream because in reality there is very little money in vaccines for the drug companies. So they don’t spend a lot of time or money making them. This time it is a totally different scenario.

We don’t know what the side effects are. For vaccines any side effects show up in 8-12 weeks max. The actual part if this vaccine, the mRNA is actually out of your body in about 24 hrs. Your body does the rest of the work. The reason there are no side effects that take years is that this is not like medication that you take every day. It is a single or two dose vaccine and you are done. The side effects are actually minimal. People will go on about some of the bad things that have happened such as GB. But, when you compare that percent to the normal percent you see they are equal or less. So the biggest side effect is feeling crappy for a day or 2.

As for force readiness, the vaccine absolutely impacts force readiness. Between the mandatory quarantine periods for travel and deployment and down time for an exposure we lose a lot of readiness. Not to mention the time someone is down that gets the virus. Many other 1st world militaries already have been fully vaccinated. So we are behind the power curve there.

If I had COVID why do I need a vaccine? So there is new research that shows while you do have some protection from natural immunity the vaccines actually do better against the variants. Especially the moderna one. Just food for thought.

Well I only have a .01-.02 chance of dying just like the flu. While you are correct on the surface you are missing the big picture. How many are permanently disabled by the flu, or have long lasting effects. Virtually none. This virus is way more problematic for the ones that survive. There are mid 20s soldiers that could run a 13 min 2 mile prior to having the virus. 9 months post virus they still can’t finish a 2 mile run. And don’t know if they ever will be able too again. While this is not everyone’s experience this is all too common. It can have long lasting cardiac, respiratory, and neurological damage. I don’t know about you but being my age and going through the rest of my life not being able to play with my kids or having symptoms of a stroke is a good enough reason for me. So as to force readiness it is a huge deal.

I don’t care if you are Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, or something else it makes no difference. The virus is not political. We as a country made it that way. Read the actual studies, read the real research, not facebook or the news. Are there things we still don’t know? Of course, this is very new, but the science behind the vaccine is better science than many other drugs and is the most widely studied vaccine in history.

One last thought. My wife is an ICU nurse, so she has been there from the beginning. Everyone says it affects the elderly much more. Not the case in her ICU. Almost equal to the number of elderly were the number of 20, 30, and 40 year olds that died. Not to mention a very high number of pregnant patients. You want to know what it really looks like talk to an ICU or ER nurse in an area that was affected bad as not all areas were affected equally.

I hate taking medication if I don’t have too. I do my research before taking anything. This is something I took long before the mandate based on science.

Response by Sgt C S made Nov 3 at 2021 9:35 PM

Sgt C S — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 21:35:46 -0400

I don't even know why this is an issue in the military. If you're assigned to a particular theater, there are vaccines you have to get. While too many people I know had the vaccine still got Covid, it was mild if any symptoms. I just don't get it.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2021 10:04 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 22:04:37 -0500

If my memory serves me right, the Anthrax vaccine, mandated by the military, was removed as a result of adverse effects and reactions. So, the argument that the military mandates vaccines that are tested and safe is not accurate.

However, the point being made is 'follow orders or get out.' When we enlist or are commissioned to voluntarily serve in the military, we take an oath to protect and defend the Constitution against enemies, foreign and domestic. We also commit to following the orders of those appointed over us. So, despite over 16,000 COVID vax deaths reported in VAERS, a surge in post vax myocarditis, blood clotting and other life shortening adverse reactions, government and military leaders are pushing mandatory COVID vaccination. They are doing so as a result of politics not science. Anthrax vax was pulled from the market with far fewer adverse effect reports than have been reported for COVID vax. Yet, it appears that Big Pharma and corrupt politicians, civil servants and possibly military leaders are pushing the vax.

There are serious doubts about the 'COVID deaths' being reported because the CDC unlawfully changed the Certificate of Death data collection, making a comparison pre-COVID and post-COVID impossible. The change enabled the elimination of 'primary cause of death' for classification reasons while allowing the inference that COVID influenced the death. As a result, nearly every death in 2020 is identified as a COVID death, even those marked as 'Homicide, Suicide and accidental overdose.' Worse, influenza almost disappeared from existence with less than 1,000 influenza only deaths, despite an annual influenza mortality rate of between 40,000-60,000 deaths in the US.

This corrupt process of identifying over 700K killed by COVID, despite a PCR test that has a 94% false positive rate (resulting in removal from the market in Dec 2021), creates and feeds the fear porn used to change election processes to win the Presidential election. Even the CDC has included a footnote on Table 3. Comorbidity table to acknowledge that 5% of the reported deaths were caused by COVID only while the remaining 95% were caused by at least 4 comorbidities. More interesting is that in a country with an average life expectance of 78 for men and 81 for women, the predominate number of COVID deaths are in age 70 and over! 40% of all COVID deaths are people in long-term care and over the age of 70. Even the push to vax children goes against science. 25% of the US population, nearly 83 million people, are in the age 25 and younger group. This group accounts for less than 5,000 COVID deaths. Based on this fact and the VAERS reporting, this group of people, in addition to everyone under the age of 65, are more likely to die or have a shorter lifespan as a result of the vax than COVID, which has a 99.984 survival rate.

The one result mandating COVID will do is force service members to decide between blindly following orders or leaving the military. My expectation is that we will see a 250k reduction in all branches in the coming months. Because the far left socialists in our government have pursued a reallocation of military and police funding on 'Green New Deal' socialism for a couple of years. By persuading members to voluntarily leave the military, police, fire fighters, nursing and other professions, the socialists can claim it was a 'personal choice.' The truth is, socialist do not believe in individual rights but sacrifice for society's sake.

100 years ago, socialism reached our shores and we have pushed back against this failed ideology in every generation, until this generation. Now, we have a generation indoctrinated against individual freedom, capitalism, and for big government, socialism and 'the greater good.' If they succeed, then mandates and governing through fiat will become the norm, the Constitution will become toilet paper and the oath military members take will be worthless. So, this is more than a simple vax.

Response by CPL Raeanne Mitchell made Nov 28 at 2021 11:38 PM

CPL Raeanne Mitchell — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 23:38:41 -0500

I am not sure what changed since I separated, but I don't remember being given a choice on the armful I was given before going overseas. Most soldiers are healthy and not likely to be allergic or otherwise have a bad reaction. Who knows what bugs you might encounter while being deployed?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2021 4:22 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 16:22:47 -0500

https://phmpt.org/pfizers-documents/

Here is the safety data from the Pfizer trials. Look through it yourself.

Pfizer's Documents - Public Health and Medical Professionals for Transparency

Public Health and Medical Professionals for Transparency Documents Pfizer's Documents

Response by TSgt John Brody made Dec 13 at 2021 11:01 AM

TSgt John Brody — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 11:01:35 -0500

to MG Pollock: Why have not addressed the multitudes that have fallen ill or even died due to the chinese virus 'vaccination'?
This shot is too risky.

Response by SPC Tarrence Molendyk made Dec 16 at 2021 7:16 PM

SPC Tarrence Molendyk — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 19:16:15 -0500

Ma'am coming from my Uncle who has been a pharmacist for almost 50 years. Lab trials of new medicines at the minimum are supposed to be three years, the best time for new medicines 7-10 years. How is 9 Mos. or shorter best for the public? More people have died from the shot because of lost or intentionally held back results. Where is it Constitutional to demand everyone get vaccinated or lose their job? This is a blatant violation of rights and freedom.

Response by SPC Jonathan Lee made Dec 17 at 2021 7:33 AM

SPC Jonathan Lee — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 07:33:20 -0500

I still remember my first few days at boot camp.
They gave me a buzz cut for about a minute.. crappy hair cut done!
Went some building with about a dozen soldiers dressed in white lined up with hog injection guns on their hands standing on either side on hall.
You started marching on without stopping then Bam, Bam .. All the required vaccine shots are done!
So, add one more vaccine shot? Come on suck it up and march on soldiers...

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2021 9:22 PM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 21:22:51 -0500

She lost me at the trivialization of our oath such that it includes Covid as an enemy I am swore to defend against. A virus isn’t such an enemy and she should know better. I’m also quite tired of the “safe and effective” assurances. Really? The J&J version is so safe and effective that the CDC is advising people not to take it because of proven health risks.

Response by SFC Benjamin Varlese made Dec 24 at 2021 4:03 PM

SFC Benjamin Varlese — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 16:03:03 -0500

There’s a lot to unpack from the dubiously necessity of a Covid vaccination. As opposed to religious or medical waivers, those who don’t want the vaccine should seek a waiver for immunity. The DoD regularly approves waivers for natural immunity from Varicella (chicken pox) and MMR (https://www.health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Health-Readiness/Immunization-Healthcare/Clinical-Consultation-Services/Exemption-Guidance). There’s a better link I can’t find because it’s Google, but there’s stare decicis for these kinds of exemptions. I could argue a whole lot more on the subject but based on the comments, it’d be lost on the institutionalized bobble-heads that make up a majority of the leadership (read toxic) in the DoD.

Page Not Found

Response by MSgt Eric Amidon made Dec 28 at 2021 8:36 AM

MSgt Eric Amidon — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 08:36:03 -0500

It is a scientific fact that all respiratory viruses get weaker as they mutate. You must have failed that question in virology.

Response by Frank Leverett made Dec 28 at 2021 5:38 PM

Frank Leverett — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 17:38:53 -0500

Let's change the topic slightly and see if you agree that a mandate is good and legal. "US to mandate all adult citizens purchase, train with, and carry a firearm daily, to ensure crime can be fought as quickly as possible." It's well known that criminals are cowards at heart, and if they think someone may be armed in their chosen target, they often change. Kennesaw GA has a VERY low crime rate as there is a rarely enforced city mandate for all adults to own firearms. Now, were this to happen (it won't, I know) would you say "well, it's to keep people safe" or would you support those who say "I don't feel safe doing that, you can if you want but I won't?" A vaccine is created to induce an artificial immune response, ostensibly to boost immunity to a virus. Many today are immunocompromised or otherwise have chosen to not take this one, why should they be forced when their choice does not in any way change the efficacy of what someone else did take?

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2021 9:38 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 09:38:15 -0500

Did Edward Jenner completely understand the first antibiotic. Wonder how many lives he saved

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2021 6:04 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 18:04:34 -0500

The vaccine should not be required as it has proven to b ineffective due to the requirement that you need another booster less than6 months of recieving the toxic potion along with the fact that the CDC has stated thar current covid hospitalizations are running at 80% supposidly fully vacinated individuals.. It wioud be much more benificial and less costly to provide propper nutrition to build a strong immune system and maintain what God has provided us with. modern sick care has killed mor e people than it has saved.

cdc

Response by Sgt Terry Rizzuti made Jan 11 at 2022 6:08 PM

Sgt Terry Rizzuti — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 18:08:14 -0500

When I joined the Marine Corps in 1966, they stuck me full of needles and sent me to boot camp. I survived. Then they stuck me full of more needles and sent me for infantry training. I survived. Then they stuck me full of more needles, put me on a ship and sent me to Vietnam. I survived. Then they repeatedly stuck me on trucks and helicopters and stuck me in the middle of firefights where people shot at me with bullets and artillery. I survived. Then a boobytrap punched me full of 14 holes and they stuck me full of more needles and scalpels. I survived. Then they sent me back out on trucks and helicopters so more people could shoot at me with bullets and artillery. I survived. Then they stuck me with more needles and brought me home. I survived. Then they stuck me with more needles and sent me to the Caribbean. I survived. Then they stuck me with more needles and mustered me out. I survived. All you so called Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines too scared of a little ol Covid shot or two make me laugh my you-know-what off.

Response by SGT Joanie MacConnell-Rozek made Jan 12 at 2022 2:56 PM

SGT Joanie MacConnell-Rozek — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 14:56:40 -0500

You signed that right away.. We all got shots in basic and before we were deployed overseas. Please don't tell me you were 100% sure about what you were given (may have been told it was ABC, but do you REALLY know that's what you received??). So yes, take the vaccine. It's NOT political and if you make it that way? That's on you. Leave the service if you don't want it (unless there is a medical reason you can't take it). It's that simple.

Response by PV2 Raymond Dozois made Jan 15 at 2022 7:02 PM

PV2 Raymond Dozois — Sat, 15 Jan 2022 19:02:29 -0500

Forcing military to take a vaccine that is still not fda approved isn't right, and forcing anyone to take a vaccine is against our principles. I don't agree with a mandate

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2022 7:48 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 19:48:15 -0500

Thank you... maybe someone will listen to you.

Response by D R made Feb 3 at 2022 10:13 PM

D R — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 22:13:03 -0500

This is a real piece of liberal garbage. If there’s risk, then there should be choice. Especially now that everyone knows the vaccines don’t prevent infection, spread, or minimize symptoms.

Response by CW5 Mark Smith made Feb 4 at 2022 1:28 PM

CW5 Mark Smith — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 13:28:58 -0500

I've had two Pfizer shots and a booster yet I can still contract Covid, pass it on to others, and die from it. Not exactly a strong argument to present to those who are refusing to be vaccinated.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Feb 5 at 2022 4:15 PM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Sat, 05 Feb 2022 16:15:14 -0500

Where was all this protest when there was a mandate for the Anthrax vaccine? That program is a 6 shot series plus an annual booster, yet troops are protesting this vaccine?

Response by LCDR Stephen Kay made Feb 26 at 2022 2:05 PM

LCDR Stephen Kay — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 14:05:04 -0500

A well articulated article does not mean that all the points are correct or factual.
Having raised two vaccine injured children for over twenty years, I can with a 100% confidence tell you that vaccines are not as safe as medical professionals who wholeheartedly endorse vaccines will lead you to believe.
There are so many factors that play into the ‘safety and efficacy’ aspect of the story, and there is no ‘one size fits all’ that is 100% safe for everyone.
In addition, try to remember that a majority of the medical professionals that endorse vaccines probably did not specialize in epidemiology or toxicology.
And before someone asks, ‘oh, and you have?’
Actually yes, I have been studying since my children were injured.
One must also realize that taking and oath to support and defend the constitution does not not mean we blindly follow the recommendations of those who stand to profit from these decisions.
And when individuals attempt to lean on CDC statistics, we’ll one has to remember that statistics is a subject in which the numbers can be very easily manipulated.
There are those who have allegedly died from Covid, and those who have died with Covid.
I my personal experience I have known more people that have died from Covid related vaccine injuries than people who have died with (or from) Covid.
Informed consent should be the mantra, especially when there is no recourse for injury compensation.
This mRNA shot never went through the standard testing and safety protocols, it came out even quicker than CDC Fast Tracking.
In other words, we are in one of the largest clinical trials to have ever occurred.
Will some people not be effected?
Of course, but we will also have to monitor the long term side effects.
But, there is also those who will be effected immediately.
Therefore, it should not be mandated, it should be a personal choice.

Response by Maj James Tippins made Mar 14 at 2022 5:40 PM

Maj James Tippins — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 17:40:23 -0400

I have not yet read the other comments below, but there is SO much wrong with your statements. I don't have the time to educate another wrong person.

Not my circus, not my monkeys.

Response by SPC Jeff Daley, PhD made Mar 15 at 2022 1:35 PM

SPC Jeff Daley, PhD — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 13:35:28 -0400

The article by MG Gale Pollock is already 6 months old. This is an update that relates to many of the posts on COVID-19. The information is provided by the pre-eminent experts in this field for your review.

How do the COVID-19 vaccines work?
Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccines use genetically engineered messenger RNA (mRNA). Coronaviruses have a spikelike structure on their surface called an S protein. COVID-19 mRNA vaccines give your cells instructions for how to make a harmless piece of an S protein. After vaccination, your muscle cells begin making the S protein pieces and displaying them on cell surfaces. The immune system recognizes the protein and begins building an immune response and making antibodies. After delivering instructions, the mRNA is immediately broken down. It never enters the nucleus of your cells, where your DNA is kept.

The Janssen/Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is a vector vaccine. In this type of vaccine, genetic material from the COVID-19 virus is placed in a different kind of weakened live virus, such as an adenovirus. When the weakened virus (viral vector) gets into your cells, it delivers genetic material from the COVID-19 virus that gives your cells instructions to make copies of the S protein. Once your cells display the S proteins on their surfaces, your immune system responds by creating antibodies and defensive white blood cells. If you become infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, the antibodies will fight the virus.

Viral vector vaccines can't cause you to become infected with the COVID-19 virus or the viral vector virus. Also, the genetic material that's delivered doesn't become part of your DNA.

Because COVID-19 vaccines clinical trials only started in the summer of 2020, it's not yet clear if these vaccines will have long-term side effects. However, vaccines rarely cause long-term side effects.

If you're concerned, in the U.S., safety data on COVID-19 vaccines will be reported to a national program called the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System. This data is available to the public. The CDC has also created v-safe, a smartphone-based tool that allows users to report COVID-19 vaccine side effects.
[Sources - Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, March 3, 2022]

Can COVID-19 cause long-term nerve damage?
Experts warned that the study, led by researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital and the National Institutes of Health, was very small and had "biased data." Regardless, the results suggested that long covid might be driven by long-term nerve damage. [Source - NBC News reported. Mar 2, 2022] (The expert mentioned by NBC News was Anne Louise Oaklander, associate professor of neurology at Harvard University that led the study)

Response by LTC Ray Buenteo made Mar 15 at 2022 6:25 PM

LTC Ray Buenteo — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 18:25:56 -0400

When you separate deaths of people with covid but not due to covid vs death due to existing health issues exasperated by covid versus death of elderly with covid due to existing health issues versus death due to covid I have no confidence in your medical argument MG Pollock. But, I do agree if you join you follow lawful orders or leave. On the civilian side no government agency has the right to force a medical treatment on a civilian. I got my vax because I chose to get it. But if my neighbor decide not to get the vax why should I fear them unless the CDC and the government are lying about the vax being a protection.

Response by CWO3 Perry Robert made Apr 7 at 2022 10:04 AM

CWO3 Perry Robert — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 10:04:41 -0400

After all the different shots / pills that I got in my time in the Marine Corps, I wonder these days if some of them are affecting my health these days, plus some of the bases / countries that I got to visit and stationed at...they are still delaying treatment from the Camp Lejeune water contamination from the 1980's.

Why can't our country find out where this COVID came from??? It makes you wonder....we probably paid for the development of it and someone released it into our environment......I am betting on cruise ships and the passengers take it back to their countries and spread it......

Just think of all the folks coming across our southern border....guess who is going to pay for theirs? Don't forget their smart phones too.....sorry, it's a hot topic for me....

Response by SPC James Randall made Apr 7 at 2022 7:41 PM

SPC James Randall — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 19:41:03 -0400

Tell that to the thousands to troops who have heart damage now.

Response by SPC James Randall made Apr 7 at 2022 7:46 PM

SPC James Randall — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 19:46:52 -0400

Perhaps the veterans and those outside of the active duty status have a different view. I see numerous reports from many different sources regarding the dangerous side effects of the vaccine. This letter sounds like a complete propaganda piece. There is a significant cover up happening regarding the dangers of the vaccine. Common sense should make people ask some hard questions. Why so many shots for a vaccine that is marginally effective at best? The latest booster data only shows marginal additional protection for a couple of months at best. There has been a huge spike in mortality rates. If you want it then get it....but forcing it upon someone else is a huge NO. My body..my choice.

Response by MSgt Bobby Gene made Apr 14 at 2022 10:19 AM

MSgt Bobby Gene — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 10:19:23 -0400

I don't think we should be forcing any experimental drug on anyone-for any reason. Especially not the Military. Especially since we have gone from a "will" protect to "might" protect; and "Might" lesson the symptoms, should you get the Chinese virus.

So, in short, the powers that be, DON'T KNOW what it will do long term, as there have been no testing. Just like they don't know how well it may work in the near term...because there has been little testing-and the real-time testing that has been done, doesn't look real promising-what, there is a need for booster#6 now?

In short, if you want the shot take it. But don't force those that don't want or even need it to take it. Don't strong arm or bully people into "compliance".

On a side note, none of the generals anecdotal examples provided are not reversible, nor have long term or potential unknown side effects. The shot, on the other hand is a wild card. NO ONE knows the potential for future harm...or at least if they claim too, they are not saying.

Regarding the Generals statement, yes the virus does mutate, (as all tend to do). But it HAS NOT gotten "stronger" only more "infectious"-not the same thing. This last strain has widely declared to be milder in symptoms, as each succeeding strain will generally do.

Please stop the fear mongering.

Response by SrA Hal Nelson made Apr 14 at 2022 11:56 AM

SrA Hal Nelson — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 11:56:32 -0400

Still feel that way, General. Or are you allowed to say?

Response by CN Timothy Burk made Apr 14 at 2022 1:00 PM

CN Timothy Burk — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 13:00:18 -0400

Ivermectin, or Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine I would take.
Remdesivir has a 50% mortality rate, and does nothing against covid. You can also get reinfected.
Since I have already had covid, I have natural immunity, so no shot is needed.
Masks are a big joke, and a means to gain control. Tools of the "One World Order"
We need Trump back, and others like him.

Response by CN Timothy Burk made Apr 14 at 2022 1:21 PM

CN Timothy Burk — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 13:21:40 -0400

Deaths are higher in the vaccinated.

Response by SrA Janice Heebsh made Apr 19 at 2022 2:50 PM

SrA Janice Heebsh — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:50:58 -0400

Agreed. TLDR If all of us have to run the gauntlet in BMT, with no knowledge of what exactly we're being immunized for or who makes our injections, and can agree its necessary for our service, then a Covid Vaccination is no different.
Historically, disease is a killer in all encampments, and so modern militaries have adopted a strict inoculation policy against any communicable disease contagious and deadly enough to debilitate its effectiveness. Covid ticks these boxes, and therefore the military needs to be vaccinated.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2022 2:23 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 14:23:45 -0400

You probably eat more wierd chemicals every time you eat some strawberries than you get from the vaccination. Stop being a chicken. I got FOUR covid vaccines and will probably get another one soon.

Response by SSgt Mathew Cummings made Apr 23 at 2022 10:43 AM

SSgt Mathew Cummings — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 10:43:05 -0400

I offer some contrast here, the Anthrax vaccine? If Driving While Ability Impaired was truly a concern, why is every idiot on their phone texting, video calling, talking or all over social media all the time? For the greater good seems to be the most common approach to this topic. If that's the point, your scope is not only out of view, it's blindfolded. With this application no alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, tattoos, no military service, no electricity, you should have nothing that could possibly do you or anyone else harm. The reason so many are against this vaccine is because it has harmed and or killed more people than it has helped. It has no proof, it is still not certified( the FDA says it will take over 20 years to say what it's side effects are). There are so many issues and so many lies around this whole thing, there is absolutely 0 trust. To those that reference the oath, you are still limiting your scope to seeing who can still be the enemy. This whole situation is a lot more complicated than most are giving credit.

Response by MSgt Joshua Jobe made Apr 25 at 2022 9:09 PM

MSgt Joshua Jobe — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 21:09:43 -0400

The vaccine doesn't protect you or others from getting the disease. Since when do we start calling viruses a "domestic enemy". If you want to label it an enemy, don't sugar coat it and call it what it is: a foreign enemy that was derived out of a Chinese lab, that happened to be funded by American dollars. I guess because it was funded using American tax payer dollars, it can kind of be considered "domestic".

Since it's considered an "enemy", when is the source of this enemy going to be taken out swiftly?

Response by CPT Endre Barath made May 5 at 2022 12:17 AM

CPT Endre Barath — Thu, 05 May 2022 00:17:44 -0400

I am appalled at this statement, for someone to reach your rank, clearly you sold out your soul MG. Most people in the Officer Corps do not get past Full Colonel unless they played politics to get to the first not alone second level as a General. Let me ask you this how do you feel about Abortion are you for or against that.... My point is my body my choice is what women say.... so where does it differ when it comes to an untested vaccine.... let's be clear if you look at the statistics it seems like this has become the pandemic of the vaccinated.... Feel free to delete my comment if it does not meet your political stance. RLTW in case you did not know it means Rangers Lead the Way that is from an Airborne Ranger Infantry CPT...

Response by SPC James Drury made May 8 at 2022 3:30 PM

SPC James Drury — Sun, 08 May 2022 15:30:50 -0400

Time for an update of "Disinformation;" we now find out the Pfizer vaccine causes blood clots, a serious side effect from the drug. Oh and surprise, details are hard to come by from the CDC about side effects from the Covid vaccines. Wonder why?

Therefore, we just keep inoculating kids 12 and under and keep watching folks who've received ALL the vaccinations and boosters continue to get diagnosed with Covid; while claiming they would have gotten it so much worse if they hadn't been vaccinated. Oh really! Wonder how they know this?

Funny how some folks who obediently took the shots, like lemmings, and demonized anyone who questioned the vaccines, are now screaming about abortions and how the gov't has no business meddling with their health decisions about their bodies or health care.

Have they've seen the light? Do they understand the irony in their stand or is it just more gov't control spread by fear and disinformation?

Response by CPT Dale Trompler made May 14 at 2022 1:49 PM

CPT Dale Trompler — Sat, 14 May 2022 13:49:18 -0400

Nope. Typical bureaucratic line, too one-sided. Too many omissions of additional facts that counter what you've said.

Response by CPT Endre Barath made May 21 at 2022 2:21 AM

CPT Endre Barath — Sat, 21 May 2022 02:21:49 -0400

Looks like my original comment went into cyber trash so let me repeat it here :
I am appalled at this statement, for someone to reach your rank, clearly you sold out your soul MG. Most people in the Officer Corps do not get past Full Colonel unless they played politics to get to the first not alone second level as a General. Let me ask you this how do you feel about Abortion are you for or against that.... My point is my body my choice is what women say.... so where does it differ when it comes to an untested vaccine.... let's be clear if you look at the statistics it seems like this has become the pandemic of the vaccinated.... Feel free to delete my comment if it does not meet your political stance. RLTW in case you did not know it means Rangers Lead the Way that is from an Airborne Ranger Infantry CPT...

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2023 6:08 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 18:08:56 -0400

Nobody should ever welcome someone else forcing you to be a guinea pig, without giving you all of the proper medical information first. It's tough to be able to make a well informed decision when politics is pushing mandates, and people are being manipulated and controlled or disciplined in the event they refuse.

If you're leading from a place of fear instead of sharing information - you're not actually leading but fear mongering.

Response by SP5 Richard Barton made Sep 18 at 2023 7:55 AM

SP5 Richard Barton — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:55:44 -0400

I will avoid government sanctioned vaccines with great commitment. I no longer trust the goober-mint nor the medical profession.

Response by LTC Lance Headrick made Sep 19 at 2023 5:28 AM

LTC Lance Headrick — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 05:28:35 -0400

Saying that getting the vaccination will protect others is patently false. Shot or no shot you can still get it. We did not do good testing and as LT Baird points out....mortality is very low. Lower still if you take out people too old to serve or with higher potential comorbidity (to model the military population)(being over weight Is a leading comorbidity.) I won't get another shot.

Response by Sgt James S. made Sep 23 at 2023 11:14 PM

Sgt James S. — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 23:14:00 -0400

Experimental shots that neither stop the spread nor prevent catching the disease are NOT a vaccine. Furthermore, the risks of getting these shots appears to far outweigh the risks of simply getting COVID for any healthy individual (as military members generally are)--the discharges of service members for damages caused to them by getting these ordered shots are evidence of this.

It is APPALLING that you are encouraging and ORDERING active duty members to comply with being guinea pigs just to line the pockets of big pharma companies. You should be named as an individual defendant for lawsuits over damages from these shots and held criminally liable.

Response by SPC W. Neil Cantor made Oct 9 at 2023 5:41 AM

SPC W. Neil Cantor — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 05:41:15 -0400

When I enlisted in the Army way back in 1972, I remember eating chow early one morning and the DI ordered us to march onto the tarmac and ready ourselves for shots! Well the corpman had airguns on the left and right of the line, and started shooting unknown liquids into our upper arms! If the government provides it why not have access to it and be thankful! I've had five shots of the COVID-19 vaccine. I had the first 2 then 3 boosters and ready for another booster when told to receive! Since I was a young boy I have gone to the local health department for various injections to hopefully stop any diseases! I am now 70 years old and anything that will help keep me healthy and disease free I will accept with open arms!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2023 4:05 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 16:05:42 -0400

General Pollock,
I have been vaccinated by the military and various OGAs for everything you can think of and some you couldn't. Some inoculation's / vaccines are great. Smallpox, DPT, Measles, HPV, Chicken pox, Polio and Pneumovax, are just a few of truly great ones. Now speaking as a medical professional, the most recent research on COVID-19 and all of it's variations has appeared to be slipshod at best and criminally negligent at worst. The mRNA vaccines are a real advance in vaccine technology, but at this time they are "Not Ready For Prime Time" Vaccines.
V/R

Response by CPO Melvin Miller made Oct 9 at 2023 10:11 PM

CPO Melvin Miller — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 22:11:56 -0400

I went along with any and all vaccinations while on active duty. Serving on amphibious ships most of my career. We carried Marines to many different countries. We got the same vaccinations and boosters as they did. Yes there are some people who have adverse effects. Risks just like any surgery. Unit cohesion. Safety of all. Years ago not questions asked. Mandatory shots. Bootcamp on. I have gotten the Covid shots, boosters, flu shots, going to be getting the newest Covid vaccination along with the RSV. Two weeks ago got the high dose flu shot. I am one of the lucky ones no adverse effects.

Response by Sgt Gregg Stavros made Oct 11 at 2023 2:27 PM

Sgt Gregg Stavros — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 14:27:47 -0400

How Fing absorb, another woke dumbass in the biden regime.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Oct 12 at 2023 1:06 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 13:06:13 -0400

Ma'am, As someone who has worked in the civilian field as a Paramedic, and as an Emergency Manager I see the benefit of vaccines. You bring up a great point, but there is something in there that is missing, and it goes back to Anthrax Vaccinations. No service member should be an experiment for a company that cannot pass basic inspections, not once but three times. Forcing service people to get vaccines from that company opened the door for people to loath military mandated vaccines. That is something that the services have never recovered from.

Response by SGM Ronald Cheatom made Oct 28 at 2023 3:15 PM

SGM Ronald Cheatom — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 15:15:55 -0400

Not a single serving service member, past or present, to thw best of my knowledge, ever questioned the shots given upon entry, or supplemental shots given before deployment to parts unknown. Because this particular vaccine has been politicized to the point of near rebellion, repeat near rebellion, we now have service members putting it to question. Had the circumstances been different, we would not be ha ing this discussion. Take your shot like a GOOD troop should, or go home.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2023 10:17 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 22:17:57 -0400

Plainly, not going to accept anything that hasn't been properly studied. I've heard too many bad stories sitting at the V.A. hospital talking to other vets who have serious health problems after that crap was injected into them.

Take ur mandates out of this country.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Nov 2 at 2023 6:23 AM

SGT Erick Holmes — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 06:23:09 -0400

Certain vaccatinations should be mandated as in the FLU vaccine. Others should be on the person if they want to put more stuff in there body when there isn't enough research. Every one is different and we all have different reactions. For those that are high risk then they may need to reconsider. It's a tough call. We all ready get a bunch of shots before we go overseas etc and lord only knows what reaction we will have or if the vaccine will work. It's a tough call in general but I think depends on what it is and where your going and what it's for will have an inpact

Response by PO3 Rob Laity made Nov 3 at 2023 1:48 AM

PO3 Rob Laity — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 01:48:56 -0400

Why should anyone "welcome" the use of a so called "Vaccine" that isn't an actual vaccine especially whiles being forced against one's will and one's right to "informed consent" to be injected with an experimental and dangerous substance. The mRNA "vaccines" are NOT safe. They have been implicated in all kinds of very serious manifestations including heart attacks, blood clots and death. You do a grave disservice to our military by downplaying the current ubiquitous evidence of grave medical ramifications caused BY the "Vaccines". There has been many attempts by the deep States to squelch these adverse reaction reports. It is against the tenets of civilized society to forcefully subject our military and our civilian personnel to take into their bodies a known inflictor of death, the experimental Covid "Vaccine".

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2023 12:38 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:38:42 -0500

We shouldn't accept it. It's garbage. Look how many great, probably a lot of "the-best-of-the-best" soldiers that were in the military were forced out because of a flawed mandate, illegal at that. Military personnel are some of the most fit in the world, why on earth would you force them to get a vaccine that's not yet proven, has killed many, and isn't effective at resistance of the things it's supposed to help your immune system resist? Unnecessary!

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made Nov 27 at 2023 6:46 PM

MAJ Hugh Blanchard — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 18:46:05 -0500

With all due respect to your rank, MG Pollock, aren't you part of the senior medical hierarchy in the DOD? Aren't you just supporting "the party line"? And isn't it true that there have been a number of undesirable side effects among those who have been vaccinated with messenger RNA vaccines? Hasn't the infamous Dr. Fauci recently acknowledged that several of his statements promoting COVID vaccination been proven to be false? Why is the DOD now trying to "woo back" the troops they kicked out for refusing the COVID vaccination?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2023 4:15 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 16:15:53 -0500

Wow, this article didn’t age well.

Response by PO2 Jean Lentin made Dec 27 at 2023 6:36 PM

PO2 Jean Lentin — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:36:37 -0500

Can anyone mentally fit actually say this out loud anymore?
CRIMINAL.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2023 6:47 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:47:57 -0500

I'm sorry I got to your second paragraph and started to throw up in my mouth, what a load of BS. How much money did they pay you to write this garbage?

Response by CPL John Bross made Jan 8 at 2024 11:31 PM

CPL John Bross — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 23:31:46 -0500

This should be an individual choice even in military your still an American citizen.

Response by PO1 Don Mac Intyre made Jan 11 at 2024 4:42 PM

PO1 Don Mac Intyre — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:42:37 -0500

Nope. Not effective. Won't get it. Didn't get it.

Response by SPC Rebecca Cann made Jan 12 at 2024 6:11 PM

SPC Rebecca Cann — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 18:11:02 -0500

The military should NEVER welcome "Emergency Use Authorization" shots simply because VA refuses to compensate for long-term vax damage / death. I know; I've been fighting Army / VA for 33 years since pre-deployment vaxes for Desert Storm 1990. And I'm terminal with a plethora of vax-derived cardiac diagnoses.
None of the info about adverse effects was printed on CV prescription insert ("intentionally blank") or CV vial packaging. As that info has been revealed, we now know that there were more than 200 deaths during CV shot clinical trials (and I don't believe that is an accurate accounting of total post-shot deaths). We know that the placebo groups were subsequently "vaccinated" because adverse effects occurred later than CDC-recommended 15 minutes of monitoring after shots / boosters. We now know that CV packaging from the outset SHOULD have been printed or stamped with "black box warning" that CV shots cause cardiac disease / death, especially among the most physically fit (pro athletes and soldiers). Even tho the "emergency" ended in May 2023, childhood CV killer shots are being vax-u-factured thru EUA for 6 months and older. I believe EUA actually stands for "Experimental Use Authorization", especially since such a large proportion of victims receiving these CV killer shots has no voice: soldiers and infants / toddlers.
The CDC reported that 1.1 million US citizens died of CV between May 2021 and May 2022: 6 OUT OF 10 HAD RECEIVED CV SHOTS. The CDC relies on health departments of 30 states: to hell with the other 20 state health departments. It was the CDC who retroactively decided that anyone who died of auto accident or gunshot wound or anything other than CV could qualify as dying "with" CV: No testing required; just the flick of a doc's pen on a fraudulent death certificate.
CV does NOT qualify as a vax because it prevents no disease and it does not prevent the spread or transmission of anything.
Is anyone still wondering why all 4 branches of the military haven't met their recruiting quotas the past few years? Is anyone still wondering why all those service members who refused the shots and instead accepted discharge have not returned to military service upon wide-open invitation?
The next EUA shot is supposed to be Ebola for 2024 after a planned bio-weapons lab leak. Ivermectin is recommended as a preventive and effective early Ebola treatment. Ebola vaxes killed 54 people during clinical trials. And I don't believe that was the total number succumbing to Ebolas vaxes. Do you?

Response by SMSgt Guy Garfinkel made Jan 13 at 2024 10:06 AM

SMSgt Guy Garfinkel — Sat, 13 Jan 2024 10:06:00 -0500

As a retired military member AND a former military dependent, I have had a ton of shot throughout my life. I still do not totally trust the Government with some of that "stuff" that gets injected into our bodies. That includes all of those shots we received before going to South East and West Asia, to include the Anthrax injections we were forced to be given. Too much experimentation.

Response by SN Shirley Symon made Jan 13 at 2024 7:34 PM

SN Shirley Symon — Sat, 13 Jan 2024 19:34:33 -0500

Let me say that as long as I can decide what comes out of my body I should be allowed to decide what goes in my body. MY BODY MY CHOICE. Second the flu vaccine does not stop you from getting the flu or giving the flu and neither does the COVID vaccine. Third statistics can be manipulated to say what you want to say. Also more than one cause of death can be listed on the death certificate so huge percentage of the COVID related deaths were not just COVID. In the state of Michigan ALL yes EVERY. SINGLE. DEATH per the Governor had to be tested for covid before being released (including at home deaths). If the person tested positive that was listed as the primary cause of death. Even though the person had stage 4 cancer or died in a vehicle accident or had a stroke/heart attack.
Yes we are in the military and yes webwork in close quarters however the mandated vaccine WILL NOT STOP THE SPREAD OF COVID.

Response by SPC Gary Gibson made Jan 21 at 2024 12:54 AM

SPC Gary Gibson — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 00:54:10 -0500

Please find and post ONE empirical double blind study. There are none. Follow the money.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2024 8:10 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 08:10:36 -0500

Thank GOD I’m retired and don’t have to deal with policies being put forth by brainwashed senior officers like this nurse. Last I checked, the COVID mandate was rescinded because it was almost solely responsible for the completely abysmal recruiting numbers, and now the DoD is sending letters to servicemembers it kicked out because they refused an experimental treatment that has proven itself to not work, begging these people to come back in. We were LIED to about almost every single thing relating to COVID from almost every single “authority” in the world. Your article reads as one gigantic gaslighting attempt. Again, thank GOD I’m retired…

Response by SP5 Randy Magar made Feb 18 at 2024 6:48 PM

SP5 Randy Magar — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 18:48:42 -0500

COViD vaccines were experimental. We did not get a vaccine, but a vaxgene. I had three shots and a booster. I would prefer to take the Novavax based on protein rather than the MnRA. But can’t find anyone who will give them. I didn’t take a booster this year because it’s not a vaccine. Plus the military trampled over the rights of many members of the military. Now DOD wants them back. Respect our soldiers, sailors and marines.

Response by SFC Frederick Dalton made Mar 17 at 2024 4:56 PM

SFC Frederick Dalton — Sun, 17 Mar 2024 16:56:19 -0400

General, I’d like you to reread your words with the benefit of hindsight, and realize just how much you sound like a government stooge instead of a medical professional. You’re part of the reason recruiting is low and trust in Army leadership is in the toilet.

Response by SSG David Forler made Mar 27 at 2024 7:44 PM

SSG David Forler — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 19:44:54 -0400

dei , 1619,lgbt mind set is like a cancer now in the military. no 1st amendment rights for those of us that ARE PUREBLOODS and disagree 100000000% against the death vax.. leave alone a mandate. this was once a free nation... you senior leaders that put your paycheck above honor, loyalty to the Nation are a disgrace. I can not vote down this story because I do not have 15000 (Sorry, you must have an Influence Score of at least 15000 to vote down. Please build up your profile so people know more about you.) points...

Disgusting... it is obvious everything other than military history, military honor, integrity, duty etc is being pushed into our Military to destroy it by the progressive American hating left...