Coronavirus cases continue to rise exponentially in the United States and have soared to their highest levels of the pandemic in some states with low vaccination rates. The number of confirmed U.S. cases has passed 36 million, with hospitalizations soaring and COVID-19 deaths once again on the rise. On Monday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said all U.S. military personnel would be required to get vaccinated by September 15 — or earlier, if the FDA grants final approval to the Pfizer vaccine before then. Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby urged military members to get shots immediately.

John Kirby: “This isn’t just about you. It’s about your ship. It’s about your platoon. It’s about your squadron. It’s your opportunity to contribute to the health and readiness of your teammates, and thereby the nation.”