Archbishop: Catholic troops can refuse COVID-19 vaccine

Catholic troops should be allowed to refuse COVID-19 vaccines for conscientious reasons, the Archbishop for the Military Services USA wrote in a statement Tuesday.

“No one should be forced to receive a COVID-19 vaccine if it would violate the sanctity of his or her conscience,” wrote Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio.

In the statement, Broglio pointed to concerns surrounding the moral permissibility of the vaccines, citing abortion-related tissues used in development or testing. As reported by Defense One, this is the second time Broglio released a statement providing moral guidance for vaccines. Previously, he wrote, “being vaccinated is also an act of charity to our sisters and brothers.”

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced in late August that vaccines would be mandatory for troops. Only the Pfizer vaccine will be required, as it is the only fully FDA-licensed vaccine.

Active-duty airmen have until Nov. 2, while reservists have until Dec. 2. The Navy and Marine Corps set a Nov. 28 deadline for active-duty and Dec. 28 for reservists. The Army deadline is Dec.15 for active-duty members, but Reserve and National Guard forces have until June 30.

Three troops die on the same day as military COVID-19 deaths continue to spike

Deaths now total 62, half of which occurred since August.

By Meghann Myers

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for everyone over 12 years old — including people that have already had the disease.

Broglio wrote that those who choose not to get vaccinated should still take precautions to protect others.

“Those who refuse the COVID-19 vaccine must continue to act in charity for their neighbors and for the common good by undertaking means to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 through wearing face coverings, social distancing, undergoing routine testing, quarantining, and remaining open to receiving a treatment should one become available that is not derived from, or tested with abortion-derived cell lines.”

The Archdiocese for the Military Services provides services on installations across the globe, claiming responsibility for more than 1.8 million people.

More In News

Pentagon tech chief wants an ‘all in one’ sensor

It is one of several critical technologies that Heidi Shyu, the undersecretary of defense for research and engineering, included in remarks at SOFIC.

Ukraine getting battalion’s worth of artillery in new $100 million aid package

The U.S. is sending Ukraine another $100 million in military assistance, including heavy artillery and counter-artillery radars, the Biden administration announced Thursday.

Lasers, water landings, crewless ops: Upgrades are coming for the C-130 family

The 1960s-era design continues to transform.

SERE school commander debunks myths, wants more volunteers

“In the last 60 years, we’ve really focuses on isolated individuals,” but during large-scale maneuver warfare, units can become isolated just “by battlefield geometry," the Army's SERE school commander said.

Watchdog could subpoena former VA workers under plan approved by Congress

Currently the VA inspector general cannot force former employees to detail problems or crimes they saw during their tenure at the department.

In Other News

Javelin missile: Made by the US, wielded by Ukraine, feared by Russia

The American-made FGM-148 Javelin has been making mincemeat of T-72s and T-90s in Ukraine, according to reports.

The Neptune anti-ship missile: The weapon that may have sunk the Russian flagship Moskva

The sinking of the Moskva is arguably Russia's lowest point in its invasion of Ukraine — so far. Here's the weapon that may have killed it.

Panzerfaust 3: The Cold War weapon wrecking Russian tanks in Ukraine

Though it has its roots in fighting Soviets in World War II, the Panzerfaust 3 antitank rocket is now being used against the Russians again — in Ukraine.

Army drafting abortion policy in case Roe v. Wade is overturned

Policies have been drafted, though they have not been signed.

Pentagon’s top general pledges ‘a hard look’ at troops’ current housing allowance levels

Senior defense officials are paying attention to the adverse effects the high costs of housing are having on troops.

‘I Married the War’: Wives of combat veterans speak out

A new documentary highlights military and veteran spouses’ experiences with caregiving, vicarious trauma, dramatic life changes and loving someone with PTSD.

Military stores scrambling to get baby formula — what new parents need to know

For now, there's baby formula available at commissaries overseas and in remote areas. But elsewhere, military stores — like their civilian counterparts — are experiencing shortages.

Errors in DoD’s new electronic health care records system raise concerns among providers

Health care providers say mistakes and incomplete information affect patient health care.

We’re making strides, but Arctic soldiers still need help from big Army

With the service’s new Arctic strategy and the anticipated re-designation of Army Alaska as the 11th Airborne Division, the Army should also bring in more funding.

Bond formed in the Marine Corps continues to college — and beyond

A group of nine former Marines has maintained their bond through college life at Arizona State University.