Rep. Luna and Spouse File Lawsuit Against DOD Over COVID Vaccine Mandate
![Rep. Luna and Spouse File Lawsuit Against DOD Over COVID Vaccine Mandate](/content/images/size/w1200/2024/01/a9f962ff-954f-49e9-8a3e-8e3e0f039c79.png)
Andrew Gamberzky, former technical sergeant with the Oregon Air National Guard, and his wife, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Florida), have initiated legal action against the Department of Defense. The lawsuit contends that Gamberzky was compelled to leave the military due to his refusal to comply with a COVID-19 vaccine mandate, which he opposed on religious grounds and due to his objections to abortion. Despite applying for religious and medical exemptions, these were not granted.
The legal complaint asserts that Gamberzky's First Amendment rights were violated when he was effectively "fired" from the military for his stance on the vaccine. The mandate in question, implemented in a memo by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, has since been rescinded by the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. However, the couple claim they have suffered significant financial harm as a result of Gamberzky's departure from the service, including the loss of healthcare, spousal benefits, and survivor benefits that come with military employment. The lawsuit seeks monetary compensation and equitable relief for these alleged injuries.