An American Navy officer was reportedly removed from his position as second-in command of a destroyer because he refused to follow COVID-19 jab or-test rules, becoming the first officer to be dismissed under President Biden’s military mandate.

Commander Lucian Kins (number-two on the Arleigh Burke class USS Winston Churchill) had requested a religious exemption to this mandate, Fox News reported. However, both his request and subsequent appeal were denied.

Navy spokesperson LCDR Jason S. Fischer stated that Kins was relieved from duty because of “loss of confidence” in his ability perform his duties.

Fox News was told by other officials that Kins was fired for refusing to receive the vaccine or complying with coronavirus testing.

Fischer stated that the commander was reassigned from Naval Surface Squadron 14 to the staff.

In August, the Pentagon declared that all service personnel would have to receive COVID shots. The Navy gave its personnel until November to get a jab, or request an exemption.

Despite the fact that thousands of US military personnel have asked for religious exemptions to be granted, none have been granted.