Ocean County Marine would be among hundreds to be reinstated

Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a staunch advocate for those who serve in uniform, this week introduced new legislation—H.R. 7570—that would require top-ranking military officials to reinstate U.S. service members seeking to return to service after being forcibly discharged from duty as a result of President Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate.

            Smith, who has authored more than a dozen laws to help veterans and their families, said his legislation comes in response to meetings with constituents—including a Marine from Ocean County—who want to rejoin the military after being discharged earlier this year for deciding to not take the COVID vaccine.

            “My legislation will ensure that our brave men and women in uniform who were unjustly punished because of their personal medical or moral decisions receive the benefits they deserve and have the opportunity to continue serving our great Nation,” said Rep. Smith, who has served as chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee.

            “These forced discharges are no way to treat American heroes who sacrifice so much and put their lives on the line to preserve and defend our safety,” said Smith.

            Hundreds of service members have reportedly been discharged already over Biden’s vaccine mandate, including Marine Bill Borowsky Jr. from Point Pleasant Borough. That number is likely to grow as tens of thousands of service members remain unvaccinated.

            “I would like to thank Congressman Smith for hearing the voices that no one else would listen to,” said Bill Borowsky Jr. “Not only is he listening, he’s taking action. Thank you Congressman Chris Smith.”

            “As the dad of a Marine who was separated from his unit because of the Biden vaccination mandate, words cannot describe how grateful I am to Congressman Chris Smith,” said Bill’s father, Bill Borowsky Sr. “Congressman Smith’s track record on helping our veterans over his many years in office is unmatched. Knowing that he is fighting for my son and all of those in the same situation is both encouraging and comforting.”

            Smith’s legislation would ensure that those who want to voluntarily return to the military after being wrongfully discharged solely on the basis of refusing to take the COVID vaccine are re-enlisted at their same rank and grade.