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Interview: Vietnam Veteran Gary Steffey Reflects on Grandson’s COVID-19 Reinstatement
U.S. Army Col. William Zielinski, a military intelligence officer, reinstates and promotes Austin Waring from specialist to staff sergeant during a ceremony at Sabre Airfield, Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Aug. 7, 2026. Zielinski and Waring connected through the Department of War COVID-19 Reinstatement a
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U.S. Army Col. William Zielinski, a military intelligence officer, reinstates and promotes Austin Waring from specialist to staff sergeant during a ceremony at Sabre Airfield, Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Aug. 7, 2026. Zielinski and Waring connected through the Department of War COVID-19 Reinstatement and Reconciliation Task Force after both left the Army following their refusal of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Waring’s grandfather, Vietnam veteran Gary Steffey, attended the ceremony and reflected on his grandson’s return to service. Steffey served as an infantry platoon leader in Vietnam before later serving as an assistant brigade intelligence officer.
"He didn’t want to come out. He always wanted to serve," Steffey said. "It was his dream. He’s getting what he has due, and I couldn’t be prouder."
Waring is a fourth-generation Soldier, continuing a family tradition of military service that includes his great-grandfather, grandfather and father.
(U.S. Army video by Capt. Jennifer French)
Attribution: Source: DVIDS Hub — U.S. Department of Defense public-affairs media
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