US air force denies early retirement for transgender service members

Move targets trans air force members with 15-18 years of service and forces them out of US military with no benefits

The US air force is denying early retirement to all transgender service members with 15-18 years of military service, opting instead to force them out with no retirement benefits, according to a memo seen by Reuters.

These longer-serving transgender service members will have the same choice as more junior ones: quit or be forced out, with corresponding lump-sum payments as they walk out the door, the 4 August memo says.

Focus on the benefits you do retain (GI Bill, VA benefits, experience)"

Emphasize this doesn't reflect on your service or character"

Military & Family Readiness can provide counseling resources"