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The U.S. military has begun enforcing a controversial policy that will remove up to 1,000 transgender troops from active service.

The directive follows a recent Supreme Court ruling and an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in January, which bans individuals from serving in the military if their gender identity differs from their biological sex at birth.

According to an internal Pentagon memo, active-duty personnel have until June 6 to voluntarily identify for discharge, while reserve members face a deadline of July 7. After that, involuntary separations will begin.

Critics say the move undermines the service of qualified individuals who have risked their lives for the country. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have condemned the policy as discriminatory and dangerous, calling it a rollback of hard-won rights under prior administrations. Supporters of the policy argue that it is necessary to maintain unit cohesion and reduce medical costs.

The new directive stems from Executive Order 14183, which Trump signed shortly after taking office in his second term. It revives and expands a similar ban issued during his first presidency — one that was later reversed under President Biden.

Public opinion on the issue has shifted. A recent Gallup poll shows support for transgender military service has dropped from 71% in 2019 to 58% in 2025, highlighting growing polarization on social policy under the current administration.

For the affected troops, however, the decision is more than political — it’s personal. Many now face abrupt career changes, loss of benefits, and the emotional toll of being pushed out of service simply for who they are.

The Department of Defense has not indicated whether it will provide transition support or legal resources for those impacted.