Air Force Denies Trans Troops Early Retirement

The U.S. Air Force has denied early retirement requests from transgender service members with 15 to 18 years of service, opting to discharge them without retirement benefits. This policy reversal affects individuals who were previously told they could retire early, forcing them to choose between a lump-sum separation payment or involuntary removal. Air Force officials stated that all exceptions to the policy, including some that had been prematurely approved, were ultimately denied after 'careful consideration.' The decision follows the Trump administration's ban on transgender service members, which was recently upheld by the Supreme Court. Critics and advocates argue the policy is dehumanizing, eliminates a path to retirement for those close to the 20-year mark, and results in significant financial loss for affected families. Legal challenges to the ban continue, with advocacy groups representing plaintiffs contesting the policy.