Two veterans groups have sent a letter to President Bush, criticizing the Administration for its plans to reinstate mandatory anthrax shots for military personnel. The move came shortly after the FDA issued its final rule, saying the vaccine will prevent anthrax by inhalation. So far, the Pentagon has not said it will reinstate mandatory shots, but it does plan to urge personnel to voluntarily get vaccinated.
The Air Force is requesting about $141 million for initial enlistment bonuses in its fiscal 2026 budget, while Space Force wants $13 million.