While Pfizer’s vaccine is being distributed to all U.S. jurisdictions for administration, several more candidates are in development and clinical trials continue to be conducted simultaneously with pharmaceutical partners.

"This is a very important day, not just for the Department of Defense, but for our nation," Miller said before getting his vaccination.

[T]he first doses of the vaccine will be given to frontline health care workers and first responders, including emergency medical services personnel, security forces, and other essential personnel.

“We can do a thousand tests in just a couple hours,” Keller said. It was an example of ingenuity taking place all over the country, with members of the Military Health System partnering with civilian hospitals and clinics.

CCP has a one-year shelf life, so collected units will begin to expire in 2021.

The FDA announced on Dec. 8 that its review of the Pfizer vaccine found it to be safe and efficacious.

DOD is expected to receive around 44,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine in the initial phase.

The Military Health System has played an important role implementing the National Defense Strategy, Norquist said.

The Department prioritizes DOD personnel to receive the vaccine based on CDC guidance.

For Dingle, readiness is the key issue during the transition.

"The whole point of public health is to prevent any type of spread."

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the MHS had embarked on reforms and initiatives to improve its medical support to the armed services.

This memorandum provides guidance on the provision of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is the lead coordinating DOD Component for executing this guidance, in coordination with the Military Departments and other DOD Components.

During Warrior Care Month, we reflect on the strength and resilience of our nation's wounded, ill, and injured service members, and recognize the caregivers who support their recovery and rehabilitation.