Do you think someone who has never been in a combat has the right to call themselves a veteran?

2015-11-16T19:16:58-05:00

Let me apologize in advance to the people who find this question insulting... I'm just wondering what other people who served viewpoint is.
I personally went many years before I broke down and got "Desert Storm" Veteran tags, and the "Veteran" identifier on my driver's license... I'm still not entirely convinced that I deserve the 101st patch on my right sleeve, for the most part all I did was fix helicopter engines in the sand.

I have a great friend that served in the Air Force, and never left CONUS.

I have a relative that served on Aircraft carriers before Vietnam.

Both proudly stand up when "Veteran's" are asked to at public gatherings, but I always feel strange standing up.

Legal definition of "veteran" aside (someone who served at least six months and received an honorable discharge). I'm wondering more about how those of us that served feel about the term.

When a civilian hears "Veteran" I get the impression that they think we all stormed the beaches at Normandy, and for the most part I was really bored, played Spades and Tetris on my Gameboy during Desert Storm.

Should someone who was in the military during the Vietnam conflict (but never in theater) be allowed "Vietnam Veteran" license plates?

SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4", TSgt Hunter Logan , CH (MAJ) William Beaver , COL Ted Mc

Response by LTC David S. Chang, ChFC®, CLU® made Nov 16 at 2015 7:19 PM

2015-11-16T19:19:03-05:00

I think that many have supported indirectly those in combat, and we can't discount them. Some just have had bad timing and have not been able to deploy, especially recent servicemen

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 7:22 PM

2015-11-16T19:22:17-05:00

You have the right to believe as you want. But, I served 14+ years on active duty and 8 1/2 years in the Army Reserve. I held 10 military ranks. I do not seem to meet your standard, but I assure you I am darned sure a veteran. I suggest you get off your serving podium.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Nov 16 at 2015 7:24 PM

2015-11-16T19:24:39-05:00

You don't get to decide what you do in the military, and no one can dictate whether there will even be conflict while one is on Oath to the Constitution.

What makes a veteran is taking on the responsibility of being under orders that may lead you into harm's way.

I call Bullsh!t on this whole idea that only combat veterans can claim to be veterans.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Nov 16 at 2015 7:25 PM

2015-11-16T19:25:24-05:00

Hell yeah they are Veterans! Look at the 99% of the fat A$$ Fu<{tards walking around our country that disqualify themselves from service and would in no way leave the comfort of sitting on their asses while squandering the benefits provided from everyone of us that busts our asses to provide them. Best thank your relatives that had the courage to stand up and serve SPC David Hannaman, and be as proud of them as I am.

edited to add:

I gotta edit this first sentence as many are not walking around, their 20 something year old lazy asses are rolling around in the rechargeable scooters parked in the front of the store while our Korean War and Vietnam Veterans that earned that Purple Heart are struggling to make it on the earnest living they are making from hard work!

In a bad way right now, really angry if you cannot tell!

Response by CMSgt Dennis Heath made Nov 16 at 2015 7:28 PM

2015-11-16T19:28:02-05:00

There are many who just didn't get sent to a combat situation. They still signed the blank check, offering to pay the ultimate price for freedom.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Nov 16 at 2015 7:34 PM

2015-11-16T19:34:36-05:00

SPC David Hannaman - All who have ever graduated from boot camp or OCS get to call themselves "Veterans." But, you seem to want to qualify that, somehow. To your point, I'd have to waive "Maggie's Drawers." <--(someone will get that.)

Response by SN Greg Wright made Nov 16 at 2015 7:37 PM

2015-11-16T19:37:33-05:00

Oh boy, this again.

Do you realize that this very question disrespects every single service member who faithfully performed their duties AS ASSIGNED during times of war? So, because I was in the Navy, on an Air Force base and then a ship during the first Gulf War, doing what I was told, COMPLETELY READY AND WILLING to allow the government to cash MY blank check (that every single SM signs), you're going to tell me that I'm somehow less?

No. Your question is insulting.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 16 at 2015 7:39 PM

2015-11-16T19:39:52-05:00

Being in the military is a game of chance. You go where the military sends you. I don't blame them when the decisions where to go is out of their hands.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Nov 16 at 2015 7:49 PM

2015-11-16T19:49:33-05:00

They ARE Veterans...

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made Nov 16 at 2015 7:56 PM

2015-11-16T19:56:23-05:00

I had a friend who was in a bar in Berlin when it was attacked by terrorists in the eighties and he received a Purple Heart wich I feel was deserved.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Nov 16 at 2015 8:12 PM

2015-11-16T20:12:53-05:00

All that served are veterans when they get out; assignments are not in their power to control.

Response by SGT Leigh Barton made Nov 16 at 2015 8:17 PM

2015-11-16T20:17:33-05:00

A "Veteran" is one that has sacrificed their OWN freedom for some period of time and served the greater needs of this country. The OATH can't be taken back, the job can't be quit, and the freedom that was sacrificed can NEVER be replaced. AND WE ALL PULL A TRIGGER FOR A LIVING. Anything beyond that is just extra duty.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 8:21 PM

2015-11-16T20:21:26-05:00

Absolutely! By definition, a veteran is a person who has had long experience in a particular field OR a person who has served in the military. It's about selfless service to your country... We all serve knowing that we may be called to war and that we may lose our life. Regardless if one has been in combat or not, if you've raised your right hand and took that oath "... to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic...", then you've EARNED that right. My 2 cents, for what it's worth.

Response by COL Ted Mc made Nov 16 at 2015 8:22 PM

2015-11-16T20:22:09-05:00

SPC David Hannaman - Spec; ANYONE who has served is a "veteran". Anyone who has served in combat is a "combat veteran".

The situation gets MUCH murkier when there are no "front lines" and anyone deployed to an area is a potential target. Someone whose entire rotation to Iraq was spent inside the confines of "The Green Zone" isn't - to my way of thinking - a "combat veteran"

I think that the division not be so much if the person was fired at, but whether they fired back (or could have fired back) - but even that's a bit loose.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 8:35 PM

2015-11-16T20:35:47-05:00

What about those like me, who went to a combat zone, but never were in combat? No those that served are veterans regardless of where Uncle Sam did or didn't send them.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 8:46 PM

2015-11-16T20:46:23-05:00

We can't all be trigger pullers and see combat. Some of us have to refuel the vehicles that get the trigger pullers to combat, service the aircraft that provide their air support, cook the food that feeds the grunts, provide the medical care for when they get injured, etc. My grandfather was a WWII vet and didn't feel legit because he was "just a cook". The two best times of the day are chow and mail call when you're away, so without him there would have been some hungry guys. There's always going to be the competitive nature between MOSs of whose life sucks more, but in the end our goal is still the same. Win.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 8:48 PM

2015-11-16T20:48:28-05:00

Absolutely. Anyone who served is a veteran. Maybe not a combat veteran, but a veteran for sure. I never served where bullets were flying over my head, but I'm certainly a veteran.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 8:50 PM

2015-11-16T20:50:20-05:00

Anyone that has served honorably is a veteran. Everyone in the military has an important job to do no matter what it is. I do not understand why anyone would think that you have to be in a combat theater to be called a veteran.

Response by SFC Eric Williams made Nov 16 at 2015 8:58 PM

2015-11-16T20:58:07-05:00

I have yet to down vote, I came close enough to get the warning message on this one.

In short I'll simply piggy back on the words of CSM Uhlig. "HELL YEA"...those Unquestionable Veterans help to make up the Less than 1% who can call one another veterans.

You should consider apologizing to your "friends" who stand up....99% of a great nation can't.............. "standup". To be counted.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Nov 16 at 2015 9:01 PM

2015-11-16T21:01:54-05:00

This is crazy! YOU ARE A VETERAN! The only other identifier would be whether you are a "Combat" Veteran or not. Who cares, you served your country with honor and distinction! Be proud of that. There are WAY to many folks out there that try to belittle what we did because they did not want or been able to be accepted into 'the brotherhood'. Why do you think people steal valor? Because they couldn't earn it like all of us did!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 9:05 PM

2015-11-16T21:05:02-05:00

Soldiers that serve do exactly that, SERVE. When you're finished serving you become a Veteran. Combat has nothing to do with being a Veteran, having signed the dotted line, taking the oath, doing your time (hopefully honorably), these accomplishments make you a Veteran. Let me ask one question, if you are a civilian, that never served in the military, living in in Afganastan in a combat zone, never fired a shot, are you a veteran?
Let's be grateful that our Brothers who supported the mission, were there or here, and were not placed in "harms way". I'm fortunate to call all that served our great nation...Brother. SPC David Hannaman :-))

Response by SGT Larry Prentice made Nov 16 at 2015 9:10 PM

2015-11-16T21:10:52-05:00

I have seen MANY folks that finished 20 in the Guard that were never deployed that call themselves Veterans. To me, a Veteran is someone who deployed for a combat mission. Some people distinguish it as veteran vs combat veteran.

Response by MSG Kevin Elliott made Nov 16 at 2015 9:23 PM

2015-11-16T21:23:33-05:00

If you took the oath and served, you are a veteran. You were prepared to deploy, if ordered. While some have had the opportunity to volunteer for specific missions/deployments, most of the time you serve where you were ordered, peace-time or war-time.

Response by SFC Jim Mergott made Nov 16 at 2015 9:44 PM

2015-11-16T21:44:49-05:00

They absolutely earned veteran status.

Response by Cpl Shane Cunningham made Nov 16 at 2015 9:59 PM

2015-11-16T21:59:30-05:00

I've never deployed, but I know multiple things I have done that have a direct effect on the war.

Response by SGT Forrest Stewart made Nov 16 at 2015 9:59 PM

2015-11-16T21:59:59-05:00

Yes. Anyone who has served this great country of ours though military service is s a Veteran.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 16 at 2015 10:18 PM

2015-11-16T22:18:41-05:00

Here is a very similar question that I asked awhile back. Maybe you can find more answers!
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/combat-vets-how-do-you-feel-toward-non-combat-vets

Combat vets how do you feel toward non-combat vets? | RallyPoint

I am a non-combat vet retired in 2004. Never deployed in the first Gulf war, Iraq or Afganistan. My Commander and my Cheif chose to leave me home to care for my wife. Not my choice but I appreciate what they did for us. She was diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis in 2001 and breast cancer in 2003. All of my buddies have deployed and I miss that little connection they have when we all get together. So I wonder is there any animosity by combat...

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Nov 16 at 2015 10:25 PM

2015-11-16T22:25:29-05:00

Simple. Service with honor=veteran.
To think anything else is wrong.

Response by SCPO Joshua I made Nov 16 at 2015 10:27 PM

2015-11-16T22:27:24-05:00

Stop being petty and absurd.

Response by Diann Bngz Morales made Nov 16 at 2015 10:37 PM

2015-11-16T22:37:54-05:00

Veteran just means to serve n the military and they should stand up. Even if they didn't serv during wartime, they ARE a veteran. They wrote that blank check to the government. However, if they stake a claim to a Purple Heart and were not injured during warfare, that is stolen glory and reprehensible. (John Kerry and his Purple Heart for hurting himself with a stapler comes to mind.)

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Nov 16 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-11-16T23:04:30-05:00

Of course we do. As long as you serve for a consecutive 180 days and discharged honorably is a veteran....just because you didn't go to war....didn't see combat doesn't make you any less of a Veteran than those who saw combat.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Nov 16 at 2015 11:06 PM

2015-11-16T23:06:28-05:00

For the 7 people who voted NO. Please explain why you feel this way? Why do you think ONLY VETS who went to war/combat can be called Veterans?
Why do you feel one has to go to combat in order to be classified as a veteran?
Please step up and explain your selves. Enlighten us.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Nov 16 at 2015 11:13 PM

2015-11-16T23:13:19-05:00

Military members serve where their branch posts them. If they don't see combat, that's nobody's fault. I wonder what the actual percentage of military members who have "boots on ground" combat experience is.

All my combat time was on a ship and I don't consider myself any less a vet because of that. Hell, the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association has very strict membership requirements and I meet them so I'm a member. Some of my brothers are Purple Heart, Bronze Star with Combat "V", Combat Action Ribbon, CIB, CAB, etc. recipients yet we're all equal brothers and sisters.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 12:03 AM

2015-11-17T00:03:17-05:00

There are different types of Veterans.
Army (Navy etc...) veterans have served in their services

Iraq (Afghanistan etc...) veteran deployed somewhere dangerous

Combat veterans were in combat

All veteran designates is experience
I am a three time OIF veteran I don't know if I can count indirect fire as combat veteran. I was never given a target to shoot at.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Nov 17 at 2015 12:24 AM

2015-11-17T00:24:25-05:00

SPC David Hannaman it is insulting. Why would you even ask this?

Response by PO2 Wesley Wilson made Nov 17 at 2015 1:19 AM

2015-11-17T01:19:05-05:00

I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed.

I will translate this SPC David Hannaman it means, I am willing to lay down my life to protect a set of values and ideas that form our Nation, I will willingly take another persons life for those same reasons. I believe is this set of values so much that I am will to fight for it in any capacity needed.

The fact that you even asked such an assassin question shows that you dont get it.

To answer your question, they damned sure do have the right to stand up and be recognized as Veterans, not seeing combat in no way lessons the degree of service of a vet. Your statement is disgraceful and one of the most disrespectful things I have seen on RP. I have to question why you are even a member on RP as a VETERAN if you feel that way. shame on you

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 2:43 AM

2015-11-17T02:43:56-05:00

Yes, they absolutely have the right to call themselves a veteran. There are veterans of foreign wars (VFW) and there are veterans who never deployed to the combat zone. Regardless of whether you deployed or not, you still did service to your country

Response by PO1 Thomas Peters made Nov 17 at 2015 6:19 AM

2015-11-17T06:19:56-05:00

If I might butt in here. I served in wartime (1970-1980 active) by my own personal choice. There was a draft during the Vietnam years but I didn't wait to be drafted (forced) to serve, so yeah! damn right I consider myself a veteran. I took the Oath proudly as many members of my family had and subsequently would.
As Capt. Miller points out, you don't have a say in whether you serve in a combat role. Someone way up the chain of command decided that my particular skill set was most useful to the Navy's mission during those wartime years in other theaters than Vietnam. Not Me.
I feel the embarrassment of not having served in combat during those years when my high school and boot camp buddies were being killed, maimed or at the least traumatized but I had no choice in the decision. So YEAH! I'm a proud Vietnam Era Veteran and I deserve the respect of ALL Americans; veterans, draft dodgers and civilians alike.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Nov 17 at 2015 6:24 AM

2015-11-17T06:24:20-05:00

Veteran? Yes. Combat veteran? No. They aren't the same thing. Different terms with different meanings.

Response by MSgt Wayne Morris made Nov 17 at 2015 6:39 AM

2015-11-17T06:39:48-05:00

When you raised your right hand you gave Uncle Sam a blank check with your life and that my friend makes you a veteran regardless if you were outside the wire or in the rear with the gear. With all of the insanity in this nation I see no need to try and split the vets apart either!

Response by SGT William Howell made Nov 17 at 2015 6:45 AM

2015-11-17T06:45:02-05:00

You're a Vet. That shit don't fix itself, but somehow seems to always break by itself. It is never the pilots fault. :)

It is really hard to make a gun run when the helo is down.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 6:56 AM

2015-11-17T06:56:21-05:00

Well, in my opinion, regardless of what each service member actually did while serving, they still provided some sort of effect on the overall mission. Some fly planes and some fix planes. Without the individual who fixed said aircraft, that aircraft cant fly ultimately making the mechanic a critical part of the mission.

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Nov 17 at 2015 7:29 AM

2015-11-17T07:29:55-05:00

Of course they are. Depending on how you look at it, they were fortunate / unfortunate enough to serve in combat. Regardless, as long as they made it through basic they have earned the right to be called a Veteran.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 7:34 AM

2015-11-17T07:34:47-05:00

Okay, I see why you're asking this. You feel that from the work that you put in to the job, you don't deserve to be called a veteran.

You said all you did was fix helicopter engines in the sand. You do realize by fixing those engines you contributed to whatever mission your unit was pursuing right? There's a reason other jobs exist in the military. You don't have to be an infantryman to succeed in my book. Besides, isn't the reason we all qualify with our rifles because we are soldiers first, and our actual jobs second? Look, I haven't seen the shit-holes of Afghanistan, or anywhere else for that matter. However I am just a PFC. My career has just started, so why not hope for something else. You're a Specialist, so don't you have a little more time before your term is up? You're a fucking soldier man, come on. We're all doing what we can.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 7:40 AM

2015-11-17T07:40:23-05:00

My job in the US Army is Radiology Specialist, I provide doctors with diagnostic quality images for a radiologist to determine the severity of an injury/illness and to allow physicians to determine treatment. Does my profession not warrant the tittle of "Veteran" once my run is done?

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 7:42 AM

2015-11-17T07:42:51-05:00

I started out active duty army, switched to army national guard, then transferred to the air national guard, In February I will have 30 years total service without a break in service. I believe everyone who signed on the dotted line is a veteran. However, as of today, if any member of the national guard, Army or Air has only been to basic training and then to their technical schools and PME and never served on active duty outside of training and schools they are by law not considered a veteran, they don't get to put veterans preference on job applications nor do they qualify for VA loans. So, while I consider everyone to be a veteran, legally some who took the oath are not considered veterans, and to me that is BS.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 7:48 AM

2015-11-17T07:48:43-05:00

you don't have to engage in combat to be a veteran, there is combat vet and regular vet. I think the fact of how long you served should determine whether you're a Vet or not . But what do i know lol

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 7:48 AM

2015-11-17T07:48:44-05:00

Absolutely! Unless you're unfortunate enough to be entering the service at the outbreak of war, you've really no idea of where the future will lead you...Even during war, the "needs of the service" may send you into harms way-or to the safest, most important, absolutely essential support function stateside. It's fate and chance to a point...personal choice and training to another. What unifies us, is the willingness to go when and where the American people send us and do our best. That makes one a veteran.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Nov 17 at 2015 8:09 AM

2015-11-17T08:09:38-05:00

Not everyone served in war time. Additionally there are many who serve in support roles that would not have the opportunity to deploy. Anyone who honorably serves something greater than thereselves and did so in an active or guard/reserve unit is a veteran. Your suggestion otherwise insults the service of the thousands of men and women who did something that the vast majority did not.

Response by Capt Walter Miller made Nov 17 at 2015 8:17 AM

2015-11-17T08:17:54-05:00

Like myself, a lot of the people on RP are veterans of the Cold War. Everyone who sat on their sea bag at Brule, or tried to set up one of those triple-damned aluminum cots in a tent on a concrete pad somewhere, or tried to get to Tokyo on ‘Space-A’ for Christmas or got caught in an all-night raging sand storm at the EAF at 29 Palms (waving) is a veteran.

When the USSR collapsed back in 1989-90, I wrote a thing for the India. Company newsletter saying that every Marine and Sailor in the unit had helped defeat the USSR. Whatever tiny things we did, we all contributed. The Russians did not want any part of us. And when their archives were opened, they showed that the USSR wanted, as late as 1986, to attack into Western Europe. They had no workable options. We won the Cold War.

That remains, as I like to say, one of the great “what-not-ifs” of History. The Germans were willing to try the Brits and French on for size in 1940, they laughed at FDR’s call for peace and restraint.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqVc7kDtV_M

We beat the USSR, not without any loss of life at all of US service people, but at least without having to send Major Kong to the ICBM complex at Laputa.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ynY5NvYsZY

Walt

Adolf Hitler reads Roosevelts letter before Reichstag

President Roosevelt of the United States sent Adolf Hitler a letter where he asked him to not attack any of the following countries, half of the countries wh...

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 8:36 AM

2015-11-17T08:36:39-05:00

The only time I think this pisses me off is when someone like said above always hated the army, complained 24/7 about any and everything he/she had to do. Was happy to get out but as soon as veterans day comes around post up pictures of themselves in their uniform or uses it to get a free meal.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 8:38 AM

2015-11-17T08:38:17-05:00

You are absolutely as much a veteran as I am and I went to Afghanistan as an infantryman. Don't second guess your service. You earned that title.

Response by SSgt Jonathan Dickey made Nov 17 at 2015 8:53 AM

2015-11-17T08:53:02-05:00

If you were on active duty and did not receive a BCD or dishonorable discharge you are a veteran. It does not matter if you ever saw combat, deployed to a combat zone, or even deployed at all. Serving honorably is what makes you a veteran.

Response by PFC David Ryba made Nov 17 at 2015 9:03 AM

2015-11-17T09:03:38-05:00

Absolutely! When the military is at war the whole military is at war, not just those who served in a combat zone. It take people to train those for combat, people to ship supplies to the combat theater, and people to serve in other strategic areas so they don't turn into tactical areas, as we did in Germany during the Vietnam war. It doesn't matter when your served, where you served, or what you did. The important thing is that you served!

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 9:04 AM

2015-11-17T09:04:10-05:00

Federal law defines a veteran as follows: The term “veteran” means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable. Here's a link to Cornell Law site that cites US Code. A recent bill was introduced to also recognize Reserves as veterans also, something I ABSOLUTELY support. I did a year in Iraq with many Reserves, they did quality work and were exposed to the same dangers and hardships as we active bubbas. Bottom line is if you served honorably, you ARE A VETERAN and anyone who tells you otherwise, smack them in their O2 tubes. https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/38/101

38 U.S. Code § 101 - Definitions

This is a list of parts within the Code of Federal Regulations for which this US Code section provides rulemaking authority.

Response by PO3 William Herron made Nov 17 at 2015 9:32 AM

2015-11-17T09:32:43-05:00

I had a unique job that kept me stateside and supporting those across the world. I took pride in my service and the work I did. I will admit however, that I hold an amazing amount of respect towards those who have gone into combat. I also wont lie that I feel funny when I'm with my two best friends (both Marines who deployed), and people call us veterans or thank us. I always feel I should take a step back and let them be honored first, and that they deserve more of a thank you. Although I am very appreciative of thanks and benefits I wish they got more for what they did. I look up to them and these feelings along with current situations has me teetering on thoughts of rejoining.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Nov 17 at 2015 9:42 AM

2015-11-17T09:42:10-05:00

Being a veteran has nothing to do with combat. It all starts when you voluntarily stand up and offer a blank check to America to be cashed later for the amount up to and including your life! By the very fact you were wearing a uniform meant that you were willing to be called on at a moments notice to deploy into a combat zone. Whether or not your specialty code was needed at various times and that call never came, you were willing to make it happen. You don't make that choice...it is made for you. Just because you were never in combat does not diminish the fact that you are a veteran!

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Nov 17 at 2015 10:06 AM

2015-11-17T10:06:25-05:00

Your question is foolish and short sited. Find me one soldier who decided where they were going to go? Did you decide that you would fix helicopter engines in the sand? No. For those veterans who's serve you just disparaged, would they have gone to fix helicopter engines in the sand, if they were ordered? Maybe we should not consider someone a veteran unless they re-enlisted or at least made the rank of NCO? Of course not because you earn the right to stand at the public gatherings when they ask for veterans to stand when you roll the dice and take the oath to defend the Constitution.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Nov 17 at 2015 10:11 AM

2015-11-17T10:11:07-05:00

Whether you made me breakfast in theater, , fixed my vehicle at NTC, or walked patrol in my formation...The day you raised your right hand, followed through and completed Basic and AIT .. you are forever more a Vet.

Response by Maj Tom Rogers made Nov 17 at 2015 10:39 AM

2015-11-17T10:39:33-05:00

Every serviceman or woman took the same oath. Every serviceman or woman had the same probability of being selected and sent in harms way. Every serviceman or woman contributed to the capability and readiness of our armed forces even if they were just scrubbing toilets in the barracks at basic. Our services work best when we never forget that everyone plays a role whatever and wherever that role takes them. Making any distinction on the basis of what they did or where they did it does nothing to maintain or improve good order or esprit. I've worked a desk and I've had sand in my boots. I've seen the whole spectrum and I'll never take anything away from the contributions of those who were just as committed to the mission as our forward deployed troops.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Nov 17 at 2015 11:03 AM

2015-11-17T11:03:51-05:00

Yes, absolutely a veteran, but NOT a war vet. Myself included. I was in during Desert Storm, but on a ship in a regular drydock overhaul during the war...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 12:15 PM

2015-11-17T12:15:38-05:00

A Veteran yes, a combat Veteran... no.

Response by SP5 Jason DeSplinter made Nov 17 at 2015 12:27 PM

2015-11-17T12:27:53-05:00

The law is 180 days active after IDT. Army National Guard for 6 years and 2 years IRR will not get you any support. Does that make all National Guard folks non-veterans? Under the law it does unless they were deployed.

Response by Col Joseph Lenertz made Nov 17 at 2015 12:53 PM

2015-11-17T12:53:43-05:00

You swear your oath and you accept your orders. You are a veteran.

Response by SPC James Dollins made Nov 17 at 2015 1:22 PM

2015-11-17T13:22:14-05:00

I understand exactly how you feel. I went w/ 4ID 06/07, after the 6th month when we were authorized our combat patch I fought like hell not to put it on. I felt the same way you did. I was there doing my job, (15D btw). It wasn't until I was TOLD to wear it or life would get harder for me did I put it on, still thinking I didn't deserve it.
It wasn't til after we were home about a month that I realized I DID deserve it! After everything started kicking in after I finally decompressed. I definitely earned every bit of that patch & I'm proud of it! Hope this helps!

Response by PO1 Todd Cousins made Nov 17 at 2015 1:23 PM

2015-11-17T13:23:28-05:00

As one of those that came home with an enemy marksmanship badge I believe that anyone who has served and separated with an honorable discharge have earned the title of veteran. I have a close friend who shattered his ankle during a training cycle before deploying. He wanted to deploy and would have served the Marines with honor in combat. The fact that he was injured doesn't change his status in my eyes at the very least.

Response by Sgt Dale Cusack made Nov 17 at 2015 1:45 PM

2015-11-17T13:45:58-05:00

It is not just the difference of being in a Combat Theater, anyone that served during a time of peace is also as much a veteran as anyone else that served. My American Legion Post has a core of 15 members that attend meetings regularly and I am the only one of the group that had boots on the ground in Viet Nam or any other theater but we are all still brothers and take care of each other.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 2:08 PM

2015-11-17T14:08:10-05:00

SPC David Hannaman I have never been mobilized or served in theater. I begged to go at my first duty station. Signed up every chance I could, but often heard the same old line, "They just don't need your rate out there." Ten years later, I was the person preparing my fellow Sailors to be mobilized to Iraq, Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, etc. I was always so thankful that every person I helped prepare for mob, came back home again. I can't explain the exact feeling, but that moment when the ones that I personally helped stepped back into my office to demob, I was always glad to see their faces. My final group I missed out on were my Seabee brethren. I transferred before they demobed. Does that mean that my service is any less than theirs? Does that mean I am less than my brethren who did go to war? Not every veteran is a combat vet and not ever service member is a combat service member.

The most commen misconceptions I have seen are:

1) That every vet is a combat vet and if you are not then you are a disappointment.
2) That all vets/service members have PTSD. And anyone who actually does have PTSD has the most severe, violent kind; even if you don't.

Just my two cents on the matter.

Response by SPC David S. made Nov 17 at 2015 2:35 PM

2015-11-17T14:35:26-05:00

True that some take on more risk than others yet we all take on more than the civilians in our nations defense. Ones military destiny rest in the hands of many things out of ones control.

Response by Sgt Jay Jones made Nov 17 at 2015 2:45 PM

2015-11-17T14:45:20-05:00

SSG James J. Palmer IV AKA "JP4", TSgt Hunter Logan, CPT William Beaver, COL Ted Mc
There is no question in my mind they they are Veterans. They raised their hands. They served their country. They completed their military obligation. When a person joins the military, they have very little control over where they are assigned and where they serve. I joined the Marine Corps right out of High School. I joined the Marine Corps to go to Vietnam to fight for my country. When I finished Boot Camp to my surprise I was not assigned an MOS of 0311, but 3421 which is Disbursing aka Finance. I reported to Vietnam in 1970 and served my tour. I did not actively participate in combat, but I was still there and saw combat all around me in the hills. I watched air strikes during the day and fire fights at night. I never had to necessity to fire my weapon in combat. Therefore I never earned a Combat Action Ribbon. I have often wondered how I would have performed in combat. Part of me regrets not having that experience, while the other side says. God won't put no more on you than you can bear. Maybe I could not have endured combat. I will probably never know. With ISIS all around the door is not closed on that issue.

However, I did what was asked of me and I did not rush to combat, but I did not run to it either. I just did was I was asked to do. Anyone who honorably serves this country and did what was asked is a Veteran. You have to remember, most of us grew up watching war movies. They don't make war movies about Disbursing Clerks in Vietnam or some person sitting in the RAPCON (Radar Approach Control Facility) at Minot AFB, in North Dakota. We are under the impression that only combat is recognized as being a veteran. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 2:50 PM

2015-11-17T14:50:24-05:00

there is a difference in a Combat Veteran and a Veteran...

A Veteran is a person who has had long experience in a particular field such as a person who as served in the military. Ive been in just over 5 years and I am soon approaching my ETS date, but I have never been deployed. Now I doubt I will ever go out of my way to make sure people know im a veteran but still I am one, just not a combat veteran.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Nov 17 at 2015 2:51 PM

2015-11-17T14:51:48-05:00

We all know that when serving in the military we don't get much choice on where to go.
Serving in the Navy onboard ship you don't see combat up close and personal but your ship can still engage the enemy in a variety of ways through actually firing missile at a target or being a support vessel, no matter what were in the fight.
I am sometimes irritated at people who question what makes a person who served a veteran and I think most people tend to think its all combat related.
If you served honorably and did your duty, whether it be 1 year or 30 plus years, you did something many people don't have the desire to do.
I think that all of us should be proud of our service and proud to be a veteran because we served with honor and to the best of our ability.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Nov 17 at 2015 3:37 PM

2015-11-17T15:37:06-05:00

We're our own worst enemies on this issue.

There isn't some form of Veteran that is more "special" than some of other form of Veteran. The idea of "Caveats" for Veterans is "bean counting." It's done by Administrators, like the Department of Veterans ADMINISTRATION.

It makes it easier for them to turn us into numbers, or beans, than into living breathing (we the) People.

Each of us, as Individuals, swore an Oath. Wrote a blank check. We didn't know the value of that Oath or that Check when we did it. The guys in Beirut, aboard the Cole, in the Embassies, SSgt Stone. They weren't expecting anything to go down on THAT particular day. But "that day" happened. Are they any less Veterans because "Combat happened to them" rather than they "participated in combat" which is some Statutory BS regulation?

You raise your hand. You volunteer. You serve to the best of your ability. Sometimes you fall. Hopefully you get up. That's what makes you a Vet. Not because some knucklehead chose "that day" to take a pop shot at you in particular.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 4:13 PM

2015-11-17T16:13:19-05:00

Why would a person even bother so serve in anything other than a combat branch if he/she knew that they would be considered "second class" if they never got shot at? Is there career worth of work not worthy of veteran's status?

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Nov 17 at 2015 4:17 PM

2015-11-17T16:17:57-05:00

All soldiers are available for deployment . It is not a negative reflection on the soldier who did not come down on orders. They made themselves available when they joined. In my opinion , if a combat vet denies another "never deployed " vet the right to call themselves a vet they are over inflating their own importance . They need to reevaluate what it means to be a soldier and a team. Part of the team are those who stay ome.

Response by SSgt Zacharias Scaringello made Nov 17 at 2015 4:18 PM

2015-11-17T16:18:17-05:00

Absolutely. Everyone who takes their oath and serves their enlistment (or commission) is a veteran. Some go into combat, others don't. I spent my deployment on a base that was constantly getting mortared, but I never had so much as a bullet in my magazine. So I'm not a vet because I was never in a firefight or wounded?

Response by LCpl Jim Pleace made Nov 17 at 2015 4:20 PM

2015-11-17T16:20:39-05:00

Well, no shit. I'm a veteran and never went to combat. What a stupid question

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 4:29 PM

2015-11-17T16:29:44-05:00

Does it really matter? What's in a name. You are what you feel.

Response by MG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 4:32 PM

2015-11-17T16:32:23-05:00

They are absolutely Veterans. They did not choose where they served, but they chose to serve. All military service needs to be valued.

Response by SSG Samuel Sohm made Nov 17 at 2015 4:33 PM

2015-11-17T16:33:28-05:00

From a 2x Afghan Vet, I say this: "They serve also who stand and wait." Let's come together, not squabble about who did what during their careers.

Response by PO2 Gerry Roberson Sr. made Nov 17 at 2015 4:36 PM

2015-11-17T16:36:38-05:00

When you're in uniform, you can be called upon to go where ordered, and possibly die there in service. This fact is burned into every single person upon entering service, if they don't already know this at first. This is the very nature of the business--be ready to fight when that duty is assigned to you.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 4:47 PM

2015-11-17T16:47:29-05:00

Personally, if you raise your hand and swear to defend this country, and serve Honorably, you are a Veteran. Doesn't matter if you've been "deployed" or not. I've served my country for over 15yrs as an Army Reservist, never been deployed OCONUS.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 4:59 PM

2015-11-17T16:59:25-05:00

only 1% of the nation has actually served, everyone who served whether in overseas operations or to get us there or supported deserve to be called veterans.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 5:02 PM

2015-11-17T17:02:28-05:00

I don't know the numbers, and it would take some research, but I bet the total number of personnel who have served in the military since the 1700s way out number the amount who have been in combat.

Also, do you mean engaged the enemy (directly or indirectly) or deployed in support of combat operations, regardless of actual contact?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 5:09 PM

2015-11-17T17:09:09-05:00

Anyone who serves is a veteran, just not all are combat veterans...

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Nov 17 at 2015 5:09 PM

2015-11-17T17:09:49-05:00

Veteran status is defined by law, not by combat service. Simply put, a Veteran is someone who served on active duty and received other than a dishonorable discharge (reserve and/or national guard service without active duty does not count).

Response by PO2 Robert W. made Nov 17 at 2015 5:18 PM

2015-11-17T17:18:30-05:00

Are you freaking kidding me? With all the "us vs them" garbage going on in this country right now, you want to pull this waste of toilet time out? This is the dumbest question I have ever read that has not come from my ex-wife's lawyer.
We all signed up to defend this nation.(PERIOD) It doesn't say defend this nation in combat, on a computer or with a freaking spoon tied to a toilet brush. People sign and serve, they are a vet.
Now would be a good time for SPC David Hannaman to apologize to those who died serving but not under direct fire. How the devil do you plan to fight without logistics? What about the Medical staff to sew your ungrateful back side back together? You looking to say that because folks didn't serve to your expectations they don't deserve the title.

Response by SrA Jonathan Carbonaro made Nov 17 at 2015 5:29 PM

2015-11-17T17:29:20-05:00

I've never been to Combat. Never been in country, where combat is occurring. If they send me I will go, if they don't I won't. The one time I was "deployed/tdy" I protected Air Craft that were refueling or providing intelligence that was used to help the guys in combat. My job now is to train people on weapons before they get deployed.
I will Never say my service is equal to those that have been in combat, or lost life or limb or sleep as a result.

Response by SPC Matt Johnson made Nov 17 at 2015 5:37 PM

2015-11-17T17:37:14-05:00

I was truck driver/petroleum supply and was in more than a few situations where bullets, mortors and RPG's went wizzing by and IED's went off. You know, combat. Even had a direct hit on the cab of the Hemmit Fuel truck I was driving. Over a 100 trips outside the wire. Regardless of that I still on occasion run into former infantrymen that don't even except anyone as a combat vet unless they were Infantry. I saw countless soldiers get recognized with bronze stars and what not that never left the wire. There is a real stigma against non-infantry soldier in infantry units. When in fact there are many non-infantry such as supply, mechanics, and female soldiers that come along on raid missions in order to search other female detainees that do see combat. So I'm on the fence on this one. because the way I see it is you have have 2 classifacations you have "veterans" that just served in the military with no deployments to combat theater and you have "Combat Vets" that served in a combat theater

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Nov 17 at 2015 6:07 PM

2015-11-17T18:07:34-05:00

If at ANY point in your life, you've laced a set of these or similar boots up after signing your life away with a blank check, and made it through basic/AIT....you're a veteran. I'm not really feeling this whole "Combat Vet" vs. "Vet" thing (I bust balls over it, but never personal). Does being in combat make me harder than someone who just "served", or make them any "less" of an American for not seeing combat? Maybe we could just stop with the identifying one vs. the other? I'm not the smartest knife in the drawer my any means. Mud Puppies or Signal geek's aren't known for their swashbuckling wit....(I'm kidding) I really miss these things.

Response by COL Jon Thompson made Nov 17 at 2015 6:08 PM

2015-11-17T18:08:01-05:00

Anyone who served honorably is a veteran, regardless of where or what they did. I was only Christmas leave from IOAC in 1989 when my old unit deployed to Panama. A year later, I was in Germany running ranges for all the Infantry and Armor units that were deploying to Desert Storm. Former Soldiers and peers were awarded CIBs and combat patches while I did not go anywhere. When I left active duty in 1996, I was a Veteran and continued to proudly claim that. Going forward a few years, I deployed 4 times but never was shot at, never had an IED explode nearby, and never had any rockets land close to me. So while I deployed, I did not get a CIB or CAB. Does that me less of a combat veteran than an Infantry Soldier who earned their CIB? Veterans that served in combat zones do get some extra benefits but all who served are Veterans.

Response by PV2 Gary Weller made Nov 17 at 2015 6:09 PM

2015-11-17T18:09:33-05:00

This has been touched upon so many times, I consider it lazy to even ask. There's a search area less than a foot above your question. Type your question in there and start reading. I'm a Veteran. I am not a Combat Veteran. While my situation is less deserving than most, I still signed my life over to my country. Just because I didn't end up fighting for it doesn't mean that the time I devoted to it is null and void. That doesn't mean that I walk around thinking I'm hot shit. I'm humbled knowing that I didn't do as much as most soldiers. However, many men have spent half their lives in the military without deploying. What do you tell them? They've aided in the training of combat vets. They've maintained the vehicles that went to combat. They've cleaned the weapons that went to combat. If it weren't for the men and women in between the conflicts, we wouldn't be prepared for the shit when it hits the fan.

Response by PO2 Gary Lyall made Nov 17 at 2015 6:14 PM

2015-11-17T18:14:39-05:00

Whether you served in combat or behind the lines, you're a veteran. The four years I did in the Army was basically to support the infantry. I was a heavy and light equipment operators do trained as combat engineer. In the WV Amy National Guard I was a forward observer, and in the Navy I was HT (welder). Everything I did in some way was to support those in the front lines.

Response by LCpl Dale Blackmon made Nov 17 at 2015 7:16 PM

2015-11-17T19:16:02-05:00

You're right sir, that this question is insulting but, I won't hold it against anyone. I did my tour of duty honorably and, was discharged. To say that those that served but, not in a combat zone are not veterans is to say that, we are not even citizens of this great country. We signed on the sam dotted lines on the same contract. I went in on an open contract and, was assigned m MOS by CMC. I didn't get to participate in Desert Shield or, Desert Storm but, does that make my service any less tha those that did? I had friends over there. We did what was needed by Washington to be done while they were over there. While troops were fighting in the Middle East, others were holding the line elsewhere around the world.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 7:40 PM

2015-11-17T19:40:08-05:00

Wow. How does that question even get asked? We are an all volunteer force. Everyone that has joined in the last 40 years has done so of their own accord and with the full knowledge that they might have to die for their country. The Branch of Service you are in decides where you go, not always the individual. So to you, 10, 15, 20 years of honorable service doesn't mean Veteran? You're right, you shouldn't stand up.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 7:50 PM

2015-11-17T19:50:26-05:00

A Veteran is someone who served. A Warrior is someone who served IN combat.

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Nov 17 at 2015 7:51 PM

2015-11-17T19:51:46-05:00

Yes. The definition of who is a veteran is defined in Title 38 of the US Code (Federal Law). The relevant definition is as follows - USC 38 (2)The term “veteran” means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable. It is not a matter of personal opinion, but rather one of law.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 8:30 PM

2015-11-17T20:30:00-05:00

I believe this all summed up by something most of us are taught, the Profession of Arms. The basic explanation is found on all of those cheesy T-Shirts people fresh out of basic buy, but it's accurate nonetheless. At one point, every man and woman who signed onto their given profession, in our case the Profession of Arms, did so knowing full well that they may be required to put their lives on the line at some point, which no other given profession can claim as commonplace risk.

Response by PV2 Lance Stewart made Nov 17 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-11-17T21:20:06-05:00

If I'd had been issued orders I'd be a combat vet... So the fact you are in and willing unlike those people who refuse to serve gives you the right to be a vet
Now being the son of a combat vet, remember when talking to another vet you don't say you're a combat vet if you're not.... That is what is insulting to a combat veteran according to all Vietnam vets I've met.... I've seen them want to kill someone wearing a combat badge who never left the states

Response by SGT Tommy Silvas made Nov 17 at 2015 9:24 PM

2015-11-17T21:24:51-05:00

This is by far the most stupid thing I have ever seen on Rallypoint you have got to be fucking kidding me, the fact that a "veteran" would even think like this is disgraceful.

Response by Sgt David Hoshour made Nov 17 at 2015 9:36 PM

2015-11-17T21:36:01-05:00

For administration personnel in the Marine Corps, there were two different admins: those that deploy and those that do not. In school, the instructors randomly assigned numbers with some getting the number that deployed and others the number that did not deploy. I got the one that deployed and I ended up deploying twice. I think every person that I talked to that got the number that did not deploy wanted to deploy, but they couldn't because they were non-deployable by the MOS they got. These Marines had no control over their destiny whether they deployed are not, but they all wanted to deploy. If you raise your right hand, take the oath, and fulfill the obligation of your contract honorably then you should be considered a Veteran.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 9:55 PM

2015-11-17T21:55:10-05:00

Some who never mobilized are very self conscious about it. In some cases their jobs here in the states were deemed to be critical by the military and as a result they were not allowed to deploy. I think they have the same right to be called veteran as any other. The status veteran cannot be based on deployment alone because there are many reasons someone might not deploy, that doesn't mean they didn't serve their country.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 10:03 PM

2015-11-17T22:03:19-05:00

Ok since I haven't read through all the other posts I'm sure other have said the same thing. Yes they are veterans. It's pretty clear that they still had to go through Basic training and do PT and all the other things that service members have to do. However they are not Combat Veterans, this is a title that is reserved for those that did serve in a combat environment. If you would prefer that only those who have served in a combat zone maybe you could ask the person hosting the event to specify what kind of Veteran should stand.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 10:07 PM

2015-11-17T22:07:02-05:00

I'm going to start off by saying, and I'm sure I'm just beating a dead horse by now, that a veteran is someone who served honorably in the United States Armed Forces, regardless of branch. Whether they saw combat or not, does not diminish the fact that they served when the majority of the population of our country will not even consider this occupation as an option. I have 4 combat tours and I have friends that never saw combat, though not by choice. Circumstance is all that separates a Combat Veteran and a Armed Forces Veteran. At the end of the day, a Veteran is a Veteran, regardless of which way you want to look at it. Neither one is better than the other, and at the end of the day, we're both veterans. All that matters is that you serve honorably and set the right example for those in and out of the military.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 10:15 PM

2015-11-17T22:15:42-05:00

Anyone who has taken the oath and worn this country's uniform faced the possibility of being sent into a combat zone. Whether they went or not was not a choice. There presence was required elsewhere. Sometimes "elsewhere" was to provide support to those sent to a combat zone. You, Specialist, have disrespected those who came before you and after you that were NOT sent to a combat zone.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2015 11:50 PM

2015-11-17T23:50:22-05:00

Having been an actual combat veteran, been shot at blown up engaged by the the enemy in every way except for direct hand to hand combat, it is my belief that all, SM'S play their role. HAD you not wrenched on that helicopter those pilots would not have been able to fly those support missions for he grunts on the ground you earned it you did you're part. Be proud of that

Response by SPC Charles Zeller made Nov 18 at 2015 12:01 AM

2015-11-18T00:01:56-05:00

Everyone who joins the military signs a blank check that says I am willing to lay down my life for his/her country. Now some of us never had to deploy or served during peacetime and some paid the ultimate sacrifice. So you turned a wrench and fixed helicopters but you kept the birds flying that got soldiers into the fight and got them out when they needed to get out. Just because someone isn't a door kicker doesn't mean they are no less worthy of being called a veteran you should be proud of your service. I never had a combat deployment but I am proud of the fact that I put on the uniform when most kids my age didn't go a put on a uniform.

Response by SrA David Steyer made Nov 18 at 2015 12:02 AM

2015-11-18T00:02:19-05:00

Insulting that someone would think you have to serve in combat to considered a veteran.

I come from a military background on both sides of my family and thinking about it only two served in combat - a brother in law and my grandfather on my dad's side of the family. My father joined when Vietnam was going on but never served overseas. It was what it was. Now, I only ever saw my grandfather when I was a year old and he passed away shortly later but I know he was proud of my father going in the military, and he'd be proud of me being in the military.

My wife's late uncle was a holocaust survivor who later moved to the US, joined the US Army, served in Vietnam (no idea of combat or not) and retired after 20+ years. I never got to meet him and he passed away shortly after we started dating and I know he'd be proud of me, and would have thanked me for my service none the less and I'd extend the same courtesy.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Nov 18 at 2015 12:04 AM

2015-11-18T00:04:50-05:00

By completing Boot Camp, you are a Veteran. Whether or not your chain of command sends you wherever for whatever is beyond your control. The "control" you utilized happened when you signed up in the first place. Allowing yourself to be potentially subjected to any higher levels of personal risk than remaining a civilian was in your control. Hopefully and ideally, you did it because you cared and believed in something far greater than yourself. Of course these days there will always be that bottom % who are only in it for healthcare or college money and couldn't care less about our Flag. That usually shows up in their performance (or lack of).

There are even some folks who now have Veteran Benefits without finishing any training, as is the case with some who are injured during Boot Camp and are then sent home. Hey at least they tried, and were probably training hard enough to even have a chance to injure themselves.

The only "argument" about this which "could" be seen as a little different between branches, is You Are Not A Marine until you complete Boot Camp. I'm sure there are a few out there who gained Veteran Status without ever becoming Marines, including the injured I mentioned above. But again...hey at least they got off their couches.

Semper Fi.

Response by TSgt Larry Abernathy made Nov 18 at 2015 12:14 AM

2015-11-18T00:14:16-05:00

Personally, I feel there should be 2 classifications of Veteran. I think everyone that has been called up to duty during wartime can claim to be a Veteran. There should also be a status of Combat Veteran that only those that have been in combat can claim. I am one of those that has been in supportive roles, but never had to fight, therefore, I don't feel I can claim to be a Combat Veteran, but can call myself a Veteran.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-11-18T00:33:40-05:00

Yes they are a vet. Now there are vets and combat vets. Now the example veterans to stand up at a public event then if your a vet if you have been in the military you should stand you are a veteran you raised your hand with the rest of us.

Response by SGT Justin Anderson made Nov 18 at 2015 1:25 AM

2015-11-18T01:25:33-05:00

In my opinion, anyone who has served more than a day in their assigned unit, I would consider a veteran. I do have my categories of types of veterans: combat veterans, deployed veterans, and regular veterans. You should always be proud and stand-up. If you were a helicopter mechanic, you fixed the hell out of those birds. You personally made it possible for that aircraft to get off the ground to do its mission and bring its crew home alive. MOSs may rib one another but all jobs and actions are just as important as another.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 1:45 AM

2015-11-18T01:45:31-05:00

Absolutely! I'm a nobody, but my 2 cents...
honorable service without having served in combat= veteran
honorable service having served in combat= combat veteran
I don't know. Seems that simple to me anyway. I key in more on the honorable service part. Thanks for serving for however long or in what capacity you served. Thanks!

Response by SGT Bryan O'Reilly made Nov 18 at 2015 1:48 AM

2015-11-18T01:48:44-05:00

I believe that combat gives better experience but since you have no clue when the balloon is going up just signing up is an action that 99% of your fellow Americans will not take. That alone makes us all brothers IMO. I would add that we are seeing so many different attacks on our benefit structure and retirement that we need to stay together as best we can and not let us become divided by semantics. This is a club you can't buy or lie or cheat your way into and once in you are a member for life. It is a fraternity of svc that none but we can know. It's what makes the dog faces of WW2 and the Lance Cpl in Afghanistan brothers in arms and bound for life. It is this esprit d corps that stands the test of time. And allows us to rain down on the enemies of freedom with a swift and righteous hand of American doom. and I am proud to call all who have served my family. Let's not ever let anything get in the way of that bond of brotherhood.
Bayonet!

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Nov 18 at 2015 6:27 AM

2015-11-18T06:27:00-05:00

Are you kidding me?!? I served two enlistments. Both during the Cold War. In AIT, I was a Squad Leader. I was good enough (on my Evaluation) to re-enlist into Special Services the second time around. The only reason I had to get out of the Army, was beyond my control: a disability.
I served honorably, loyally, dutifully for three years and seven/eight months.
Am I a Veteran? I am not even going to answer that question. Am I a retiree, same thing.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 6:28 AM

2015-11-18T06:28:36-05:00

No that is wrong. Everyone in any military service signed a dotted line to die for their country. You really need to think about this question and possibly delete it. Not every one had an opportunity. If it wasn't for the support element, your ass would be broke and hungry.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 7:09 AM

2015-11-18T07:09:10-05:00

This argument or distinction has been going on since... Probably the dawn of uniformed armies.

Here is my take on it:
If you raised your right hand, graduated BCT/AIT(whatever you other branches call it) followed on to your unit and served your country and contract. You're a veteran of our armed forces.

Further more if you served during a time of conflict for instance over the past 14 years. You're an OIF/OEF era veteran.

You are not though a veteran of OIF or OEF. Or I suppose now OIR.

Combat veteran is a differant classification entirely of veteran. Almost like a designator. Not better or worse than those who served but never put boots on ground. (Although if you're walking around as a senior leader today in the army, with nothing authorized on your right sleeve... There is a problem)

You could break it down further if you wished as far as combat veteran goes. Habar you been in a combat theater but only sat on the fob? Or have you actually engaged the enemy?

It's an endless measurement of.... Service we play. As long as someone isn't actually discrediting another service. It's all good.

Response by SP6 Joel Rodriguez made Nov 18 at 2015 8:59 AM

2015-11-18T08:59:21-05:00

We all know those guys that did everything they could to dodge those deployments. No respect for those cowards

Response by SSgt Robert Clark made Nov 18 at 2015 10:05 AM

2015-11-18T10:05:22-05:00

This is the most ridiculous, insulting question and has been asked multiple times by members of this group. Peoples service arrogance is beyond comprehension and makes me rather disappointed that I am a member of this group. I served honorably for 10 yrs 10 mos 28 days, ready willing and able to go where told when told. It's not up to me to decide when a war is fought.

Response by SSgt Mark Mays made Nov 18 at 2015 10:07 AM

2015-11-18T10:07:12-05:00

I served 10 yrs active duty in the US Air Force, but not once was my name called to go into combat. For the longest time I felt awkward identifying as a Veteran because I had never been in combat. That was until a retired Chief explained that because I had taken that oath, was on call 24/7/365, was willing to be sent anywhere at any time, and served faithfully, I was deserving of the title Veteran. And it's a title I wear with honor.

Response by MAJ Stephen Arango made Nov 18 at 2015 10:38 AM

2015-11-18T10:38:18-05:00

The one point I make with Veterans that do not self-identify as a Veteran is they wore the uniform. Some were called to action in a conflict and some not. At any time they could have and there is no telling how the rest of their career would have gone. It was in many cases the fact that because many were sitting on the borders in Germany or South Korea that we did not have conflicts.

Response by CPT Jason Mitchell, MBA made Nov 18 at 2015 10:54 AM

2015-11-18T10:54:50-05:00

Veterans are those who served our Great Nation. However there is a distinction between Combat-Veteran and Armed Forces Veteran. That is why there are combat awards and certain uniform badges that differentiate Soldiers (ie: Combat Infantry/Combat Action badges). Those who served honorably during peacetime and wartime should both be honored for their service to our country. Those who wore the uniform are 1%ers, and are representative of the few who swore to protect our country from enemies both foreign and domestic. However, some were called to service in areas of much higher danger. No one gets to choose their exact path in a civilian career, and the same goes for military members. There are some who wish they had served in combat, and others who wish they hadn't. Standing up when Veterans are being honored is acceptable for anyone who served honorably and who loves their country enough to die for it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 11:33 AM

2015-11-18T11:33:59-05:00

What so the people that did not GO to Afghanistand, Iraq (even once), Vietnam, (even once), WWII, Korea, THOSE THOUSANDS UPON THOUSANDS are not vets? Then what are we? I was 'technically' in a zone (Korea), according to VFW regs, that makes me a veteran of a foreign war, I agree with Capt Walter Miller. If you signed up, and did your time, you are a vet. Thanks, rant over.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 11:50 AM

2015-11-18T11:50:08-05:00

I say absolutely yes. It takes a lot to your hand and give your life over to Uncle Sam. Once you do that, you have no say in where you go or what you do. I served 8 years and never deployed. And I tried. I spent the time before I enlisted mentally preparing for it. When I was sworn in I felt certain I'd end up in Iraq. They never sent me. But I certainly don't feel that my service should be discounted. I still had an important job to do stateside everyday. And in doing that I left the comfort of home. I left my family and friends behind. I missed so many milestones as my much younger brother grew up. And when I did manage to get leave to visit home my mother cried when it was time to go back.

So, yes. I am a veteran. I gave 8 years to my country. I was willing to risk my life, even though I was never asked to do so. I made a personal sacrifice and my family suffered. I certainly wish I had deployed, but it doesn't make me any less of a veteran. I am proud to be a veteran and I'm a bit insulted that you would imply that I shouldn't be.

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Nov 18 at 2015 12:26 PM

2015-11-18T12:26:45-05:00

The whole premise of the question is insulting. I had two uncles in WWII, one was an ambulance driver in Europe from the D day landings to the end of the war and the other was a rifleman in the Pacific and ended up as a POW and Batan Death March survivor. Neither of them felt they had done enough to be called a true hero but each called their brother a hero. The whole idea that one person's service is somehow more real or deserving than another's is just stupid. You swear an oath and serve honorably and you're a Veteran. It's that simple. However, no one is forcing you to stand up at public gatherings. If you don't feel your service was worthy of respect or are somehow embarrassed, stay quietly seated. I for one am glad that most Americans will still acknowledge the service and sacrifice of those who volunteered and those who were drafted and met their country's call in peacetime and in war.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Nov 18 at 2015 12:37 PM

2015-11-18T12:37:45-05:00

Response by MSG Bobbie Martin made Nov 18 at 2015 12:48 PM

2015-11-18T12:48:31-05:00

Aloha All, Yes to the question asked I served from 1977 to 1997, 3 years with the 82nd ABN DIV, 3 years with The Airborne Test Board and 14 years with 1st SFOD-D as a Parachute Rigger, Rigger Troop Operations NCO, Rigger Troop SGM and Support Squadron Operations SGM. Retired as a MSG from that position. The closest I got to a combat area was the day before the Somalia Operation. Out of my Shop I could only deploy 2 of my men to Desert Strom I, but all served 110% 24-7 to support the unit members that were down range. Anyone that served Honorably be it 4 years or 30 years but was not selected to be deployed is a Veteran to me. God Bless All Who Have Served and That Are Serving.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 12:49 PM

2015-11-18T12:49:18-05:00

Yes, they do. As stated previously, the distinction is between veteran and combat veteran.

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Nov 18 at 2015 12:53 PM

2015-11-18T12:53:35-05:00

Knew doctors an nurses in Nam who never left their hospital-hooch area, but I respect them; their still vets! I was in combat but "thank God", it was only for a couple of months! I was there, and did my duty. I'm proud what I did. I am a veteran! So are all the nurses an doctors and anyone who didn't carry a weapon, and It matters not where they served! POINT: Did you serve? Then your a veteran!!!

Response by PV2 Craig Miles made Nov 18 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-11-18T13:11:48-05:00

Anybody who signs that document these days are going to war and serve to complete the mission to win and they sign it willing to do whatever it takes even dying for you and every other American

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Nov 18 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-11-18T14:09:17-05:00

All who sign up and honorably serve are veterans; some are combat veterans. Often one's choices greatly impact whether you'll see combat, such as going Infantry vs being a cook or re-upping vs not; but if there is no combat to be had or if the “needs of the military” means the service member does not get sent into combat, then it’s out of the service member's hands. Such was the case for me; I am a veteran, but not a combat veteran, and my ego is oaky with that.

And for those who think only "combat" = "veteran", who among you has the balls to say to the face of the Cold War veteran who, under the imminent threat of WWIII, trained and stood ready to fight the advance of the USSR & Warsaw Pact nations; manned Checkpoint Charlie; kept watch on the Fulda Gap; or—to this very day—keep an eye on Cuba at Guantanamo Bay and North Korea at the 38th Parallel, that they do not deserve to be called “veteran”? Let me know how that works out for ya.

In the end, even a cook signs their life on the line knowing they are entering into military service, and while in most cases--in recent history--that doesn’t expose that many people to the dangers of combat, but who’s to say what tomorrow may bring? Just because we haven’t had too many FOBs overrun, bases overrun, or the homeland invaded in the last several decades, doesn’t mean that it can’t or won't happen, and the salior out to sea or garrison soldier or soft-skill MOS guy is then thrust into battle. That’s what can happen when you sign your life on the dotted line for military service. THAT is why veterans are Veterans.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 2:38 PM

2015-11-18T14:38:24-05:00

They answered the call, that is what is being recognized. Not their ERB/ORB

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 3:26 PM

2015-11-18T15:26:45-05:00

I see a lot of people saying if you served then you're a veteran. Its situational dictated. If Pvt Duffy just sworn in and got put on suicide watch at AIT 181 days in and was discharged. He is not a vet.

Response by SMSgt Michael Carl made Nov 18 at 2015 4:02 PM

2015-11-18T16:02:40-05:00

There is a distinction with being a Veteran and a Combat Veteran. That distinction is normally made within our own ranks. Anyone who served honorably and received a DD214 has earned the title of Veteran, regardless of where there were ordered to serve.

Response by SPC Joseph Plunkett made Nov 18 at 2015 5:33 PM

2015-11-18T17:33:23-05:00

Regardless if the person has deployed to a combat zone, they still served their country and in tern are veterans when they leave the military. There are hundreds of positions in the military, each requiring a specific skill-set. All are equally important to the mission (ensuring the safety and security of our nation). Think about it, how many jobs have to be completed before you can complete your combat mission? Do you really think it is as simple as deploying to a combat zone? You need intelligence to be gathered, you need planning, you need transportation, you need ammunition, you need support, You need a mission, you need to be paid, you need your family to be taken care of, you need.. you need... you need... If even one of these isn't done, you cant complete your mission. Does it really matter if that particular job was done downrange? The military is like a giant clock, every piece has to be in sync for the time to be correct. Ie. Every job in the army has to work together for the mission to be completed successfully.

Deployments to Iraq: March 2003 - April 2004 / January 2008 - July 2008

Response by SSG Paul Forel made Nov 18 at 2015 7:19 PM

2015-11-18T19:19:07-05:00

This is a bizarre post/a bizarre question. You are making this too complicated and you are also cutting yourself short.

1. Anyone who served in the military is a Veteran. Combat or no combat, still a veteran.

2. You wear the patch of the unit to which you are assigned; it has nothing to do with what you believe you deserve or don't deserve.

3. Combat veterans are often referred to as 'combat veterans'. Some who were in combat simply refer to themselves as 'veterans' and others make a point of saying they were 'combat veterans' because they want people to know they served in a combat role. It's a personal choice, there is no 'right' or 'wrong' to this.

4. 'All you did' was fix helicopter engines? Is that how you see it? How are the air crews supposed to fly if there are no hangar rats working on the birds? You are looking at that all wrong. Just like the Remington Raider, you had a job to do and you did it, to the support of others. The fact that you turned wrenches instead of pounding on a typewriter sort of elevates you a little or a lot, depending on who is in the conversation but overall, again I ask- how were the birds supposed to fly if you were not seeing to it they were air worthy?

There seem to be a lot of people on this thread who are freaking out over this but really, now, it is all very simple- Anyone who served is a Veteran.

I appreciate the fact you believe 'combat' veterans deserve recognition for having served in combat but insofar as your question goes, it is a simple matter of understanding that ANYONE who served in the military is a VETERAN. EOS.

Response by SSG Ed Mikus made Nov 18 at 2015 7:28 PM

2015-11-18T19:28:23-05:00

If they served 20+ years, even without combat, they are a Veteran of the service. if they served in a combat zone at all, they are a Veteran of war.

Response by PVT David Seguin made Nov 18 at 2015 7:46 PM

2015-11-18T19:46:03-05:00

during wartime, if you sign up you are are apart of that war, if you do not go over seas and participate in combat, you are not a "combat veteran".

i was injured during basic but the effects of the injury didn't go full fledged until after i arrived at my unit, the cold weather helped me as i'm a florida boy used to hot weather, the numbing cold of missouri training grounds kept me from really feeling anything at all.

had i not been injured during training, i think i wouldn't be able to answer this question like this.

considering the injury has had a devastating impact on both my military career (cut short before it even began) and then carried into my civilian life (not really going there, let's just say i would have been happy to have been in combat probably instead of this) which has made the last 12 years of my life in pain very much so annoying to say the very least.

i myself hate calling myself a veteran, but i did sign up to serve my country even though the job is what it is, i didn't really find that out until after i got in, i thought i was going to help build bunkers or something like that, they (recruiters) didn't really say much about the job.

if you did sign up during wartime, and served at least a year or more with or without seeing combat, without going awol or whatever, yes you are a veteran or a combat veteran. in my case, i feel terrible i got injured to this day like i did, both physically and mentally due to not being able to still serve my country or even change my mos to something a little more important to the war effort in some form, as i don't feel the job i took was important enough to begin with after i found out what it was..

to this day i am kicking myself for getting injured, and wondering if i should even call myself a veteran as a training accident just feels terrible to have ended my career and basically what life i could have had, before it even got started.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 9:04 PM

2015-11-18T21:04:44-05:00

Well yeah. Not everyone has control over what they do, or aren't in the best situation to start. Myself, I couldn't wait 8 months for a spot to open up in infantry because I was living in a car, and ended up going Motor T Op. I went from one non-deploying unit to another in my time in, asked to go and never got a bone thrown my way. I would say that most of us deserve the title, because all of us signed that blank check at one point. However much it was cashed for is beside the point.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 9:11 PM

2015-11-18T21:11:50-05:00

I think you wasted too much time, yours and ours, by even suggesting this asinine question.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 9:13 PM

2015-11-18T21:13:36-05:00

What a guy!!! This post is why you never saw/ never will see E-5 GUY

Response by SPC Troy Reynolds made Nov 18 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-11-18T21:31:09-05:00

Combat veterans are a subset of veterans. We're all veterans. I don't go around saying I pulled combat duty, and I don't own any ribbons which would imply that I was in combat. However, it doesn't devalue what I did as a US Army veteran.

Response by CSM William Payne made Nov 18 at 2015 10:13 PM

2015-11-18T22:13:06-05:00

Under federal law, a veteran is any person who served honorably on active duty in the armed forces of the United States. Discharges marked “general and under honorable conditions” also qualify. Mar 16, 2013

Bottom line if you have a DD-214 and did not receive a "Less than Honorable or Dishonorable Discharge" you qualify as a veteran.

For a Reservist or the National Guard, that means having been called to active duty that was not for training purposes as in Basic Training, AIT, NCOES or other courses, Battle Assembly (MUTAS / Monthly Drills) and Annual Training. I have three DD-214s; one from the active Army, two from the Army Reserves, one for being mobilized in support of Desert Storm and another for mobilization and deployment to Iraq. Any of which qualifies me of being a veteran.

Response by SSgt Kristian Fugrad made Nov 18 at 2015 10:50 PM

2015-11-18T22:50:59-05:00

I served for 8 years on Active Duty. I might not have gone to FOB locations. But I have sent Bombers and Fighter's to countries that were in conflict. I also have supported OEF, loading weapons on aircrafts. It might have been my jet that did a CAS while the ground troops were pinned down. I might not be a Combat Veteran but I am a Veteran and earned that title. That's why there's a Combat Veteran and a Veteran.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2015 11:38 PM

2015-11-18T23:38:31-05:00

Veterans and combat veterans... That's the two kinds.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Nov 19 at 2015 12:02 AM

2015-11-19T00:02:15-05:00

Yes, of course. Veteran means you have served your nation in the armed forces. That means doing your duty (the had you are dealt) in whatever job you are assigned.... in peace or at war. It has nothing to do with combat. Combat is a entirely different issue. The Purple Heart image is not necessary, as that has nothing to do with being a veteran.

Response by SSG Brian Lovins made Nov 19 at 2015 1:07 AM

2015-11-19T01:07:36-05:00

I do understand where your coming from, I am going to share my story and it is a long one but it could be longer so I tried to keep it pertinent as much as possible. I was active duty from 92 to april 98, in February of 98 we prepared and I think deployed soldiers from 3rd ID because Saddam moved his forces to the Kuwait border, we had just come off DRB 1 and were at the beginning of the DRB 3 month (we were DRB 3 if I remember correctly) so my brigade would have been last to fly, I was an E-5 and wanted to go with my Soldiers, I did everything I could to stay but I was within my 90 day ETS window and there was no stop loss, the threat dissipated and as far as I know DRB 2 never left and I am not sure if DRB 1 ever actually got off the ground. I rejoined in 01 after 9/11, I joined the guard to retain my rank. Being the high speed NCO I was on active duty I went from zero physical fitness since I ETS'd to trying to be that 12 minute 2 mile guy I was previously the first week of working out, I blew out my knees. We were called for activation for airport security and due to my injury and pending surgery I could not go. Fast forward to Jan 2004 we Mobilized for title 10 and were "deployed" (I use the term loosely) to Air Force bases throug out our state of Colorado, we went through full mobilization training at Ft Carson which at that time sucked, and was 2 weeks of normal CTT tasks and weapon qual. I spent 2 years working with 10 Security Forces Squadron at the Air Force Academy. I worked as a campus cop and was home every morning ( I worked the night shift), we earned the GWOT CONUS medal, we earned the AF Security Forces level 1 skill identifier tab (or whatever it's called). We provided an important service to both our country and to our Air Force counterparts. I again trying to be a PT stud blew out my knee during this mobilization, i was on crutches for a while but sucked it up and drove on, I was found to have severe degenerative arthritis and at this point there is no treatment other than knee replacement which no one will do at my age unless I get so bad I can not walk. Fast forward Labor Day 2005, we were activated and sent to New Orleans (St Bernard Parish) and I was out clearing roads and gov. building of debris and whatever needed to be moved. Due to my knee injuries and a large cycst that is now the size of a golfball I was non deployable, I was sent to annual SRP numerous times and sent back with a renewed temp profile for the knee issues, it took me 5 years in the guard system to actually get a perm profile and then another 3 years and the IG to finally get medically retired, they seemed to hope I would just ETS which I wouldn't do, I had to much time in, I moved slots numerous times within our unit so my E-5's would get promoted instead of having someone "useless to the military" (yep those are quotes from a unit readiness NCO) filing a slot. I never deployed over seas to a combat zone, I didn't choose to have an injury/chronic illness that made me non deployable, I went where I was told until I couldn't. It did take a long time for me to overcome the less than worthy feeling from not deploying, and I hated standing to be recognized. My oldest daughter graduated high school this past May and at graduation they asked vets to stand, I resisted even with my wife elbowing me until I saw the pride in my daughters face as she stared at me waiting for me to stand, so I stood. That is when I realized how proud my family was of my service, I was a damn good NCO, I have the NCOER's to prove it, I was a damn good leader, I have the Soldiers that respect me regardless of deployments, and most of all I have a family that knows me, what I did and is proud of my service and at the end of the day it isn't what anyone else thinks but those that actually give a damn about you be it your military family or your actual family. I got lucky and mobilized for the greatest mission I could have imagined, I don't need someone validating me. I still don't whip out my retired pink ID for discounts very often, I did get Veterans discount for my concealed handgun license. There will always be those that think that a medical illness or injury is BS and an excuse, hell I did the same thing until I was the one injured.

Response by PO1 Daniel Ladd made Nov 19 at 2015 1:48 AM

2015-11-19T01:48:06-05:00

If they served their country whether in peacetime or wartime, they are all Veterans. Not everyone is in a combat unit, sees combat or serves in a designated war or combat zone. I was deployed to Operation Desert Storm also and got as far as the U.A.E. We sailed into the Persian Gulf and negotiated a suspected minefield. We also worked on two Navy ships that hit mines in the Gulf. We could have done the same. I repaired surface ships and submarines for my entire 16 year career. Two of those submarines launched cruise missiles on Bagdad. We worked our asses off getting theses submarines ready for their deployments and they wouldn't have made their deployments with the support our ship and crew provided. As I said earlier, some people don't get combat experience. We did however loose one shipmate during our time in the U.A.E. Do you think DC3 Hollifield doesn't deserve to be identified as a "Veteran" because he wasn't killed or wounded in combat, but in a tragic swimming accident by a riptide? He was counted among the "dead" from Desert Storm and he will forever be that young sailor and deserves to be identified as a "Veteran".

Response by SSgt Charles Watts made Nov 19 at 2015 4:18 AM

2015-11-19T04:18:30-05:00

Absolutely. I have personally never seen gunfire combat, but I have done four tours and I personally know all the modern day war heroes that are written about currently in the books. The truth is that even most combat vets that do see even a small amount of combat don't want to see it again, and many become scared internally. I have met many admin Marines that had more desire to shoot and be shot at than some "hardcore grunts" . Being a vet has nothing to do with being shot at or taking a shot. It is about a lifelong brotherhood that happens to have a chapter in fighting enemies at certain times. --Semper Fidelis, Ssgt Watts, Force Recon Veteran

Response by SSG Keith Fosmire made Nov 19 at 2015 7:33 AM

2015-11-19T07:33:09-05:00

I see your point. I distinguish myself as a combat veteran because I have been in combat as a combat MOS 11B. I volunteered for this position when I went from blue to green. I don't hold myself at a higher level than any other veteran, I just know that the Infantry was the place for me. Now if a fellow veteran says they are a combat veteran, I will like to hear how they can justify that. I understand that a lot of soft mos's are mortared and attacked, but that is not the same as hunting or "move until contact".

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Nov 19 at 2015 8:27 AM

2015-11-19T08:27:46-05:00

Just because someone never saw combat does not mean they were not willing to give everything to defend and protect their country. That willingness by itself is a huge sacrifice. Veterans are defined by their willingness to give their lives, not what they actually did. Serving with valor.

Response by CMSgt Mark Lewis made Nov 19 at 2015 10:25 AM

2015-11-19T10:25:53-05:00

Yes. A "veteran" is any person who took the oath of enlistment (officer or enlisted) and honorably served in the US Armed Forces. A "combat veteran" is one who actual served in a combat environment. I'm sure there are also many opinions as to the definition of "combat environment" that will elicit many different definitions depending on a person's actual experience and job within the military.

Response by Kevin Jackson made Nov 19 at 2015 11:19 AM

2015-11-19T11:19:21-05:00

I very much support the military. You guys deserve the best. I unfortunately did not have a good chance of enlisting, since I graduated in 1975, and the military was unloading tons of guys after Vietnan.
My only peev is the younger guys I work with who were in the military for only 4 years and were in the states the whole time. Some did hvac, or other jobs . All I hear from them is we deserve more. None of them were injured, or were sent overseas for any stay in Afganistan or Iraq. I know that you don't get to choose your job, but I get tired of the ones which were not in danger wanting more.
I have an nephew in Black ops, and I have heard from him how his best friend was killed beside him during an event. That is hard, and I support all of you working in any overseas area, as well as in states.

Response by SGT Ronald Bacon made Nov 19 at 2015 1:04 PM

2015-11-19T13:04:14-05:00

That is where Combat Veteran and Veteran differ but anyone who served in the Armed Forces is a Veteran. Like Capt. Miller stated you pick your job (in some cases) and then your service picks how they need you to do that job. Without you fixing those helicopters those pilots would have nothing to use to fight with. We each have our part to make the pie hole.

Response by MSgt Daniel Attilio made Nov 19 at 2015 3:38 PM

2015-11-19T15:38:05-05:00

There was no conflict when I enlisted, the opportunity for combat was/is a matter of right place at right time. The contract is signed and oath pledged knowing the potential exists to go in harm's way. What more can be asked of a person? Why should that commitment be degraded based on factors beyond an individual's control?
Absolutely they are veterans.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 5:55 PM

2015-11-19T17:55:05-05:00

What a crazy question. There's no "I" in "Team." There's just so many ways to explain this yet I find it so self explanatory so I won't even try. We are all Veterans, we are one team, one fight.

Response by PO1 Robert Turner made Nov 19 at 2015 7:10 PM

2015-11-19T19:10:30-05:00

If you wore the uniform, signed on the dotted line, swore the oath, and served honorably then you are a veteran.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2015 7:16 PM

2015-11-19T19:16:54-05:00

Yes, I think someone who has never been in combat does have the right to call themselves a veteran, as long as they meet the criteria. There is a veteran and then there is a combat veteran and unless you've met both then I don't think you you're right to call yourself a "combat" veteran. Here is what "veteran" is defined as under current U.S Code for service during Operation Iraqi Freedom:

1. Must have served active duty (not active duty training) as defined by section 101(21) of title 38 at any time in the armed forces
2. minimum period of more than 180 consecutive days during the period beginning on September 11, 2001, and ending on the date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or by law as the last date of Operation Iraqi Freedom (August 31, 2010).
3. for veterans benefits, must have met above with DD-214 showing discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions
4. this means you're not a veteran if you have not been discharged from active service and are currently serving.

Title 38 U.S. Code § 101
(2) The term “veteran” means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.
(21)The term “active duty” means—
(A)full-time duty in the Armed Forces, other than active duty for training;
(B)full-time duty (other than for training purposes) as a commissioned officer of the Regular or Reserve Corps of the Public Health Service
(i) on or after July 29, 1945, or
(ii) before that date under circumstances affording entitlement to “full military benefits” or
(iii) at any time, for the purposes of chapter 13 of this title;
(24)The term “active military, naval, or air service” includes—
(A)active duty;
(B)any period of active duty for training during which the individual concerned was disabled or died from a disease or injury incurred or aggravated in line of duty; and
(C)any period of inactive duty training during which the individual concerned was disabled or died—
(i)from an injury incurred or aggravated in line of duty; or
(ii)from an acute myocardial infarction, a cardiac arrest, or a cerebrovascular accident occurring during such training.

Title 5 U.S. Code § 2108
(1) “veteran” means an individual who—
(A) served on active duty in the armed forces during a war, in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized, or during the period beginning April 28, 1952, and ending July 1, 1955;
(B) served on active duty as defined by section 101(21) of title 38 at any time in the armed forces for a period of more than 180 consecutive days any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, not including service under section 12103(d) of title 10 pursuant to an enlistment in the Army National Guard or the Air National Guard or as a Reserve for service in the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, or Coast Guard Reserve;
(C) served on active duty as defined by section 101(21) of title 38 in the armed forces during the period beginning on August 2, 1990, and ending on January 2, 1992; or
(D) served on active duty as defined by section 101(21) of title 38 at any time in the armed forces for a period of more than 180 consecutive days any part of which occurred during the period beginning on September 11, 2001, and ending on the date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or by law as the last date of Operation Iraqi Freedom (August 31, 2010);
and, except as provided under section 2108a, who has been discharged or released from active duty in the armed forces under honorable conditions;

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Nov 19 at 2015 7:36 PM

2015-11-19T19:36:44-05:00

I have to say SPC David Hanneman a Veteran is anyone who served in a branch of the military regardless of whether or not they seen combat. I agree that your family and friends have the right to stand when the question is asked, and you should too.

Response by PO1 Jim B made Nov 19 at 2015 8:13 PM

2015-11-19T20:13:29-05:00

Any one who serves in the Military deserves to be called a Veteran. However you also have those who are ERA veterans (like those who served in 69 or 70 but never in country) and those who are combat Veterans. If someone claims to be a Vietnam Vet but never served in country then they should correct themselves and say they are a Vietnam ERA Vet. Duty stations does not Determine your Veteran status

Response by PO3 James Conner made Nov 19 at 2015 10:35 PM

2015-11-19T22:35:51-05:00

There is a great quote by I believe George Washington where he talks about any post where man serves his country is honorable and worth of respect. Being recognized as a veteran is being shown that respect.
A lot of guys struggle with this. From a guy who spent some time on the front lines, let me say thank you for your service. It truly is one team, one fight.

Response by SPC Brian Bay made Nov 19 at 2015 11:11 PM

2015-11-19T23:11:14-05:00

You joined, performed your job, managed to avoid pissing too many people off in the process and lived to tell about it. You are a veteran.

I talked to a Vietnam Veteran friend of mine (Sr Chief Master SGT) with 3x tours under his belt about my wanting to deploy and several other things. His response was,"We all have our jobs to do and we follow orders. It's like a sports team, not everyone is on the field but those on the field need the support of the coaching staff, trainers, equipment managers all the way down to bus drivers and landscaping crew. You filled your role as you were meant to and you did it well; there's no shame in that nor is there reason to discount your service."

Response by SSgt Amy Wells made Nov 20 at 2015 12:00 AM

2015-11-20T00:00:21-05:00

Something to think about...
Not everyone was issued a rifle and ordered outside the wire to engage the enemy on his own turf. Many remained inside the wire, doing their jobs maintaining equipment, serving food, loading planes, etc....
Yet when the mortar falls inside the camp, did the people who were killed die any less honorably?
Did we all not take the same oath and write that blank check to pledge our lives in defense of our country and constitution?
We are all veterans.

Response by CMSgt Dennis Heath made Nov 20 at 2015 12:02 AM

2015-11-20T00:02:17-05:00

I can't resist a follow-up to my earlier comment.

I was privileged to be a cadet with the FL-91 AFJROTC at Oak Ridge HS, Orlando, FL, 1976-1978. The senior instructor was Lt Col Luther C. Cox. He spent 2 1/2 years as a POW at the camp featured in The Great Escape, and was there when it happened. That man was a true hero. He is the one who helped us understand that being part of the less than 1 percent of our population who willingly don the uniform is something in which to take pride. Be careful not to fall victim to the devices of the petty entitlists. Remember your training; united we succeed; divided we fall.

Response by Cpl Glynis Sakowicz made Nov 20 at 2015 7:47 AM

2015-11-20T07:47:12-05:00

Yes you do, and this is why. We serve at the "Good of the Service" We make no decisions about where we serve, and its sometimes little more than dumb luck where we end up. My cousin and my husband had the same exact MOS at the same time. When Desert Storm came calling, My husband was one of the first people to be notified he'd be going, and he was gone in a matter of a week or two. My cousin, the same exact MOS, at the same exact time, in the same unit, was given orders to the drill field.
As military members we have no power over where we are sent. Sometimes our "Manner of Service" makes it obvious that we will end up in one place or another, but most of those fields were closed off to Women, and many still are. Does this mean that women are not really Vets? If you believe that, then please step forward and allow me to tell you about my grandmother, who was a telegrapher in WWI in a Marine Uniform. Let me tell you about my cousin who was a WAASP Pilot in WWII, or my mother who was a WAVE in WWII.
I know for a fact that each one of them would have had no problem taking up a weapon if called to do so. There often seems to be no reason why this person is chosen over that, leaving one to stand by and wonder if they were very lucky, or twice damned, because there is always someone in every crowd who will sneer that those of us who were not chosen to go, didn't really earn the respect of those who did.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2015 10:32 AM

2015-11-20T10:32:20-05:00

A Veteran - whether active duty, discharged, retired, guard, or reserve - is someone who, at one point in his/her life, wrote a blank check made payable to "The United States of America," for an amount of "up to, and including his/her life."

I deployed to Afghanistan for 9 months and spent prolly over 7 months outside the wire on convoys and on build sites as a Bridge Crew member and we never seen combat. I consider our company very fortunate to spend that much time outside the wire and never lost anyone or had anyone injured. We proudly served our time in a combat zone and brought honor to the Army and our state (we were a National Guard unit). Not everyone who joins gets to decide if they will see bullets fly over their heads. My dad did 22 years in the U.S. Army, served during the Korean and Vietnam conflicts but never seen combat due to duty assignments. I still and will always consider him a Veteran because he signed up to serve during those times when it was frowned upon.

Regardless of the branch a person serves in they are still a veteran once they get out, they signed the check and knew what they were doing.

Response by SPC James White made Nov 20 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-11-20T10:41:36-05:00

As a certified Service Officer I understand your internal struggle with this question. I have heard it countless times, almost boils down to "the struggle question "Am I worthy." I am of the opinion "everyone is needed"everyone is worthy Volunteering or drafted in military service every branch, era,as well as their families ". Those of us who took the oaths to defend honor, approach life's challenges with a code-of-conduct, stepping lively are indeed Veterans as I look around my community. The sole surviving son, who by law is not allowed a combat MOS still comes to the oath -comes home; transitions into working for a non-profit as a college student, then works with brats who then become Knights. Esprit de corp lives in each community, it is the spirit of can-do in a timeline when most citizens are confused, lost or confused. In pops a vet, any vet and a energy of smart, seems to translate. Same hold with the combat veteran..Humble, worldly and always ready to pick up the guid-on and find a purpose, a mission a duty right in their city. You fixed helo's for the crew I'm sure thank you. You did your job, you did it well. And to have the honor to be in the 101st. Did you know the 101s abn assn was their when I petition for a homeless vet...they came through with the needed tools so I could advocate for a brother veteran..no one asked for his MOS, ribbon inventory..just lets give him a hand up out of the city's foxholes. Today five years later that once homeless vet...is today a firefighter. Salutes for a question that will always be asked, era to era, weather a 4 year or career timeline. I think, feel, if you served you earned the right to say yes I am a Veteran, how can I be of service to you tomorrow. Esprit de corp knows no MOS, or rate or job specifics..it simply, humbly knows each other in a full room of strangers. salutes, jim.

Response by PO1 Richard Knox made Nov 20 at 2015 12:29 PM

2015-11-20T12:29:55-05:00

All who took the oath, served with honor, sacrificed self interests, time, blood, sweat and tears, missed holidays with family, birthdays of kids, considered eating and sleeping a cherished moment is a Veteran. Their service and dedication to the history, hope and heritage of our great Nation makes them a Veteran. Manning their station or post, standing watch and always ready for whatever may come makes them a Veteran. Representing and proudly carrying Old Glory with honor and respect throughout this unpredictable world makes them a Veteran. Those who were in active and war torn areas we called a "Policing Actions", "Show of Strength" or "Unified Operations" are Veterans. All are Veterans, yet not all Veterans have fired upon the enemy. But our enemy stands at a distance today because of our Veterans. I am proud to have served and honored to be known as a US military Veteran. And Thank You fellow Veterans for your service to our Country.

Response by SSG John Mitchell made Nov 20 at 2015 1:39 PM

2015-11-20T13:39:41-05:00

The minute you sign on the Dotted line you are a Vet. Your ass belongs to Uncle Sam and he can do with you what he will. That is the responsibility of a Soldier(sorry guys but all inclusive) I knew a couple of people that never made it out of Basic because of Medical Issues. There Bodies broke down with a quickness and they got put out. There is a difference between Combat Vet and Vet. Doesn't mean a damn thing to the Civilian World. It's a distinction that is for us alone. A way to distinguish among ourselves, if you will. But no matter what, if you have a DD-214, you are a VET! Be proud of your service because whether you were "back home" while others went overseas or in the thick of it, you had a mission.

Response by CPO Andy Carrillo, MS made Nov 20 at 2015 4:49 PM

2015-11-20T16:49:39-05:00

Whether conscripted or voluntarily enlisted/commissioned, your swearing to defend the U.S. Constitution against ALL enemies foreign and domestic means you 'wrote a check' that Uncle Sam could 'cash' wherever and however he saw fit. The DD-214 is your 'receipt' saying you were willing to pay that ultimate price
and we all submitted to all the training and BS so as to be able to do that right alongside fellow SM's. Stand proud along with the relatively few willing to give their lives for our country and freedom.

Response by MSG Douglas Tolliver made Nov 20 at 2015 6:48 PM

2015-11-20T18:48:36-05:00

First, it's a Shoulder Sleeve Insignia - Former Wartime Service. Combat patch is somewhat of a misnomer for it since it only shows that you served in a combat zone. Wear it with pride to show who you served with and supported. Individual awards are what is actually earned in combat. I hate hearing soldiers they they didn't earn something. As for being a veteran, I know several people that completed military careers and never got deployed. They are veterans, no doubt about it. They don't have the combat zone experience but they are veterans.

Response by PO3 David Miller made Nov 20 at 2015 7:11 PM

2015-11-20T19:11:58-05:00

This question is absurd in the least. Of course they have a right to be called a veteran. I took an Oath of Enlistment that 99% can never say. I raised my hand as a Navy Hospital Corpsman to lay my life on the life if need be. Even though some people only provide support service (i.e. Pharmacy like myself), they are still VITAL to the mission.

Response by TSgt Greg Talbot made Nov 20 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-11-20T21:19:17-05:00

The original question is trite but the distinction of being a vet and a combat vet is on your DD214. We all served and many in combat theatres without holding a weapon. I have a high regard for anyone who served. It is only your personal character and actions belittling others that were not combat vets that would degrade that.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2015 1:08 PM

2015-11-21T13:08:16-05:00

This is one question I think should never arise. Once you volunteer where you go, what you do, and what becomes of you is designed and determined by DOD, Congress and Presidency. So to me just lifting your hand to an oath as this...' a latent decision to one day go to work and never go home' is what makes you different and CRAZY in the eyes of rational people. It does not matter whether you were discharged from Basic or AIT due to medical reason...the fact remains you became a soldier right after you took a the oath...It's not after BT, AIT, Deployment or whatever... THE DIRECTION OF DOD IS WHAT BECOMES OF YOU...YOU ARE INDEED A VET.

Response by Sgt Sherry Taylor-Bruce made Nov 21 at 2015 5:23 PM

2015-11-21T17:23:11-05:00

I served during the eighties so there weren't any deployments back then. I sometimes don't feel like I did enough during my time AD. I now weekly visit the Veterans Nursing home near me and help with the local Homeless Veterans Stand Down. As Veterans we should never stop doing for other Veteran's or our communities.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Nov 21 at 2015 5:45 PM

2015-11-21T17:45:19-05:00

Everybody who serves in the military serves at the pleasure of the DoD SPC David Hannaman. We generally had no choice where we were assigned [certainly we had dream sheets where we listed our priorities o assignment :-).
Everybody who has served honorably in the uniform of one of the military service is entitled to consider themselves a veteran.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Nov 21 at 2015 6:47 PM

2015-11-21T18:47:50-05:00

SPC David Hannaman, you took the Oath of Allegiance and served honorably and faithfully fulling your service upon getting out, you have the right to be called a Veteran in my opinion.

Response by CPT Richard Riley made Nov 21 at 2015 6:56 PM

2015-11-21T18:56:08-05:00

At it's most basic, the definition of the two have little in common. Veteran describes a person who participates. Combat describes an action one ensues. To make the statement that only those who have served in combat theater qualify as veterans is sadly misleading. Every person who has raised their right hand and took an oath to protect this country - regardless of wartime or peacetime - has offered themselves and their strengths for their country. Segregating one from the other accomplishes nothing, but making one the focus for the other is misguided.
I hope we think through where we want to end up before we begin to fire up the 'us' versus 'them' statements.

Response by SGT John Gabler made Nov 21 at 2015 7:25 PM

2015-11-21T19:25:49-05:00

I with you on your feelings. I always feel a little strange when someone thanks me for my service. Only because, it was never my intent to serve for admiration. But this is clear, being loving called a REMF by my infantry companions only proves that the service we provided is not only needed, but required to protect the lives of the soldiers that perform their duties on the front line.

Response by SPC Christopher Perrien made Nov 21 at 2015 8:32 PM

2015-11-21T20:32:52-05:00

Don't feel guilty you are a vet. Though it was more dangerous to be training than fighting in that Desert Storm bit. LOL

Which is often the case. Even in WWII , until 1944 it was more dangerous to be in America than overseas. LOL

Besides , the whole Teeth to Tail bit has pretty much excluded 80-90%% of servicemembers to ever see or fire a shot in anger themselves , no matter the war. Even in the thick of WWII it was only 1 of 7.

Anywhoo, I never saw combat. I consider myself lucky I never had to kill some other poor fool from another country. My own opinion is that when I was in , we were just so dang bad , nobody wanted to screw with us, which explains why we won the Cold War and now got a piece of paper, still waiting on the medal. :)

Response by Sgt Ed Padget made Nov 22 at 2015 1:20 AM

2015-11-22T01:20:59-05:00

That's a good question. I happen to fall into that category. I served in the US Air Force from 1987 to 1992. During that time there were no conflicts that I was called to answer. I did a short tour overseas around the time Desert Storm was just kicking off. I rotated back stateside to find out the government, in it's infinite wisdom, was sending National Guardsmen and Reservists to the desert and leaving the active duty folks back stateside. I can't help that I wasn't ever in combat, I did my part, I volunteered to join the service. I'm not sure what else there was to do? So based on a practicality and technical stance I say yes we are vets. I think however there should be some sort of divider for veterans and combat veterans. I have no problem giving way to my brothers and sisters who served in combat.

Response by MAJ David Wallace made Nov 22 at 2015 11:09 AM

2015-11-22T11:09:45-05:00

Anyone that served honorably in any branch of our military during peace or ear time has earned the title 'veteran.' As individuals, we do not decide which init goes where or when. Our duty is to be ready when we do get the call. We need to train, prepare, and hold ourselves in a high state of readiness . No matter what service or job specialty. Some may hold more prestige and honors becausr they were more decisively engaged than others. Not every man or woman can be the point on SEAL Team 6. Everyone has their role to play, whether as a helicopter mechanic, truck driver, intel specialist, PJ, or nuclear reactor technician. Everyone contributes to the team victory. As long as a service member does their duty to the best of their abilities and supports their team mates, they should be proud of their service. Not getting shot at, mortared, or bombed doesn't make you any less a veteran.....those bullets could just have easily been directed at someone else. The important thing is that you took the oath, trained, and were ready to go into harm's way when you're country needed you. Be proud of your service!

Response by Mike Jackson made Nov 22 at 2015 2:34 PM

2015-11-22T14:34:13-05:00

I served but was never called into combat, I did go in "theater" as a contractor 2005 thru 2012. I Saw a LOT of enemy fire during tenure. I even wrote statements that helped get "MY" soldiers medals & C.A.B.'s. (I felt as though many contractors should have gotten recognition for combat service.) Thank you for supporting the NON-combat vets, like myself, and Thank you all for your service. I was, internally, a little ashamed I did not do time during "conflict" til I read many of your responses!

Response by SGT Shannon Wasielewski made Nov 22 at 2015 3:39 PM

2015-11-22T15:39:57-05:00

I am an Infantry Veteran. I left the Air National Guard to become an Infantryman during the build up to the Gulf War because I thought it was the right place for me to be in a defining moment of my generation. The Gulf War ended as I was finishing basic training. I went on to serve at the Infantry School, the 1/506th Infantry on the DMZ in Korea, and with 2/67 Armor in Germany. Upon completing my terms of service and returning home, I proudly assumed the title of Veteran; however, I hold combat infantryman in higher esteem than myself so I refuse to display the standard Infantry car sticker because it contains a CIB insignia and my honor does not allow me to mislead folks into assuming I earned a CIB even though many infantry related paraphernalia contained the CIB insignia along with those for the EIB, Crossed Rifles, and Blue Cord; all of which I do have.

Response by SPC Bryan Wayne made Nov 22 at 2015 3:50 PM

2015-11-22T15:50:28-05:00

They are absolutely veterans you as an individual do not decide where the army or any other service chooses to send you on any given day. I have a good friend has a first lieutenant currently who has been trying to deploy for 5 years but has always miss the slot and is very frustrated he's just as much of veteran as I am

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2015 5:53 PM

2015-11-22T17:53:49-05:00

Frankly it's a difficult situation. Of course there is the very textbook definition of a Veteran, however I go with my personal feelings in this answer. I will never call myself a Veteran until I have had one deployment. That is a personal belief that I have not done my job or done anything to deserve that title until I have gone on a deployment. Now, in defense of those who have served but have not deployed, there is always a distinction between a Veteran and a Combat Veteran. Both have served in our Armed Forces, but only once has faced a deployment and seen combat.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Nov 22 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-11-22T20:28:14-05:00

By virtue of the definition you are a Veteran having served. If you didn't see combat, you did your job. Nobody wanted to f#(€ with you. You are a Veteran of Foreign Wars if you served in combat.

Frankly, I think it is silly to beat your chest and think you are superior to another Veteran who didn't have the "opportunity?" to be in a command that put rounds down range. Are you to say that the Marines who sat off the coast of Iraq on ship tying up Saddams forces aren't as good as those sent in to breach the minefields? Not to take anything away from those Marines -- they did an excellent job and were also lucky that the Iraqis were not dialed in with their Arty! Most everything landed between the lanes... as if by Divine assistance!! Those crossing in the lanes can consider themselves fortunate. You beat the odds and a shell didn't fall on your head. And some of the credit goes to others, such as the pilots, who kept the Iraqis busy and focused on hiding from our weapons systems instead of spotting and walking their rounds into our lanes. FWIW

Anyway, no matter what you did or where you served... even if it was sorting mail, everyone has a job to do and it ALL goes to support the guys at the pointy end of the spear. Don't feel less.

And those of you who had a chance to go to combat, take pride in knowing you survived the test of fire, but let that humble you. Don't puff your chest out like you are special. The people that do that are generally the ones who spent most of their time spraying instead of aiming if you know what I mean.

Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines... Coast Guard, National Guard, etc. We are all on the same purple team. It's okay to poke fun so long as it is in jest and it doesn't get viscious, nasty and personal. When arrogance clouds your better judgment and makes others want to deflate that big head of yours... you need to take stock of your attitude and maybe work on your social skills.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2015 12:38 AM

2015-11-23T00:38:48-05:00

Early in my military career, I was told because I was a Reservist, I wasn't a veteran because I hadn't served six months active duty time in a non-training environment. I later volunteered for a year-long ADOS tour and officially "earned" that right in the eyes of the DoD. It was billed a "domestic deployment" on a WMD Homeland Defense mission and I spent most of the year hopping between MA, NJ, TX, CT, IN & NY on one exercise or another . I'm very proud of my service to this country and the the sacrifices my family go through allowing me to pursue my dream.
My current civilian job surprised me with a plate of goodies and a card signed by everyone in the store for Veterans Day. Well... not EVERYONE. There's a 21-yr old (who belongs to the VFW Auxiliary no less) coworker that refused to sign said card because she didn't consider me a veteran. Presumably because I haven't deployed abroad. Everyone thought she was joking at first, but she steadfastly maintained her position. Of course, this got back to me in record time after the fact. Let me be quick to say I don't go out looking for handouts and freebies associated with me service, but I found this insulting. Let me also say she couldn't pass a PT test if her life depended on it...
I firmly support the proposed bill that will be heading to Congress that will make a retired reserves / guard service member that was never activated a veteran. You put in 20+ years of your life to the country on even a "part-time" basis, you've earned that right.
So, bottom line, yes. You shouldn't have to have served in a combat zone to be considered a veteran.

Response by FN Kris Gomez made Nov 23 at 2015 1:30 AM

2015-11-23T01:30:55-05:00

I'm a bit on the fence with this question, only because as I was told you choose your rate you choose your fate. I mean granite I was lucky enough to go on two deployment in my 4 years of service and It dos bother me to know someone I also served with had never stepped foot on a ship let alone to be deployed they were stateside. But as said you pick your job while in, without many of the people it wouldn't run as smoothly

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2015 11:04 AM

2015-11-23T11:04:12-05:00

The fact that you are even asking such an offensive question makes you questionable yourself. All Americans that voluntarily serve their Nation without reservation and with the knowledge that one day they may be shipped into harms way are true Patriots; when they complete their contract with our Federal Government, they have every right to be called a Veteran regardless of whether they went into Combat or not. In my field, i know all too well that nobody can succeed in the Zone without all of the combat service support and combat support that feed the front lines; some of these critical functions have to support from the Rear as well as the Front Lines. Be respectful of all our service members that have once served and are still serving; we are all value added otherwise the DA would not bother having so many MOSs. It is great to be proud of your service to our Great Nation; do it while affording others the same dignity and respect for theirs because we are all Brothers and Sisters in Arms. CW2 Eichenlaub.

Response by SFC Cesar Ocasio made Nov 23 at 2015 11:06 AM

2015-11-23T11:06:12-05:00

Yes, they are Veterans if they meet the service requirement to be called Veteran. Maybe there should be a sub-category for Veteran, like Combat Veteran or Service Veteran or both.

Response by SGT Edward Thomas made Nov 23 at 2015 11:10 AM

2015-11-23T11:10:47-05:00

Veterans are veterans. Are you going to tell people who served 20+ year careers during the "Cold War" where there wasn't a conflict to be deployed to that they're not veterans? Or did you just one day decide to puss off a bunch of veterans the day you posed this non question? Be proud of repairing helicopter engines in the sand because that was part of the bigger picture. That is a vital part, keeping combat aircraft fully mission capable. That would be like me saying that if you weren't airborne qualified, that you weren't a real soldier.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Nov 23 at 2015 12:45 PM

2015-11-23T12:45:40-05:00

Peace-time or war-time, if you served, you're a veteran. End of story.

Response by SGT James Hastings made Nov 23 at 2015 1:53 PM

2015-11-23T13:53:15-05:00

If you served and were discharged honorably I would think you are a veteran.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2015 1:58 PM

2015-11-23T13:58:38-05:00

I work in a job that ensures aircraft that are mission essential, including C-130s, KC-130s, F/A-18s, and the like are able to see the front line and supply our men and women, or lay down fire for them. Everyone in this glorious and vast military plays their part that, without them, another couldn't do their job and eventually it'd all just fall apart. Without supply and GSE, the birds don't fly and if the birds don't fly, then it may take much longer for the troops overseas to get their supplies, if it ever comes at all. I'll admit, there are times I don't feel like I'm making a lick of difference here, in the states, but every now and then, when one of the squadrons I support gets deployed, it makes a world of difference. Yes, I do stand when Veterans are called upon, and I've called on them myself during many funeral and color guard details, and I would expect, anyone who's donned a military uniform to stand and render a hand salute during Taps or the National Anthem. Many of them just had desk jobs, and while it may not be as severe, it still came with sacrifice. They went where their country needed them, and that's what counts.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2015 4:38 PM

2015-11-23T16:38:41-05:00

I would answer this question with a question of my own. Would you consider The following people veterans? Admiral Nimitz? General Eisenhower? General Arnold (US Army Air Corps)? None of those gentleman fought in combat. They lead but never fought. If you are trying to determine whether someone is a veteran or not based on whether they were in combat, you run into a problematic issue. Does a medic who never fired their weapon not count as a veteran as opposed to the soldier next to them who did? Do you have to be shot at or can you just be shooting? Would Pilots over Afghanistan not be called veterans because the Taliban does not have the weapons to shoot down a jet fighter (For the most part)? If you narrow the scope of who and who is not a veteran to such a fine point you could exclude almost everyone then you render the term veteran practically useless.

A veteran (from Latin vetus, meaning "old") is a person who has had long service or experience in a particular occupation or field; "A veteran of..." For the military we have taken this meaning and applied it to all who have service or experience in the military regardless of length of service or experience.

As for how you feel about yourself, no-one but you can decide whether you deserve to call yourself a veteran. The rest of us will call you a veteran and treat you as such because you served, just like the lowest private at Bunker Hill to the five star Generals and Admirals of WW2.

Response by PO1 Earl Morey Jr made Nov 23 at 2015 6:55 PM

2015-11-23T18:55:54-05:00

I was in Beirut Lebanon aboard the USS New Jersey BB-62 and saw the Marine Barracks blown up killing 241 U.S. troops, and the French barracks killing 65 of their personnel. Our ship fired into both Lebanon and Syria (5" and 16" shells) in support of the Marines. We fired 288 rounds of 16" shells into Lebanon and Syria in one day, YET OUR GOVERNMENT SAYS WE WERE NOT IN COMBAT! Syria also used missile systems and locked onto our ship but never had the balls to fire.

Response by PO1 Joseph Glennon made Nov 23 at 2015 7:23 PM

2015-11-23T19:23:10-05:00

The military relies on everyone - from the pencil pushers who never leave CONUS, to the lead slingers who feel they never leave the theater of war - to get the job done.

Every one of us who took the oath knew that in doing so, we could be targeted, regardless of where we filled our billet, for murder just because we wore the uniform.

Those who served during a time of no external conflict at all (something less than 50 years in our nation's history) still took the oath to die, if need be, to ensure the safety of the civilians under our care, during our watch. The only people who wore the uniform who are *not* veterans, in my book, are those who joined under false pretenses (like current gang members who are kept "clean" before they join, so that they can learn military strategies and tactics) and those who abuse the honor of the uniform they chose to wear for personal, selfish, corrupt gain. Law-breakers. Traitors. Abusers (or anyone) who use their military status to further the reach of their personal evils.

Unless you joined with the plan to quit (by whatever means) when the going got tough, and / or when you got orders to deploy - you are a veteran.

Response by MSgt Alberto Llorca made Nov 23 at 2015 7:48 PM

2015-11-23T19:48:26-05:00

What a retarded question. When did a fighting man fight without the whole support system? Who procured the ammo, who distributed the ammo, who provided the Intel of the targets, who fueled the vehicles, who fixed them, who healed the wounded? I'm amazed at the stupidity of the question.

Response by Sgt Christopher Collins made Nov 23 at 2015 8:37 PM

2015-11-23T20:37:53-05:00

Yes, I do. You served; you are a veteran. It is as simple as that. ALL of us who took the oath knew that we "could" go to war... some did, some did not. For a long time, I always felt that if one went to war, they were a hero, higher than me. BUT, one day a few years ago, I ran into a retired USAF veteran, who was 92 years old, who served in WWII. I stopped and thanked him for his service and mentioned I was an Air Force veteran and that he was a hero. He looked at me and said, "You served?" I said, "Yes." He then said, "Then you are a hero as well." That was about 5-6 years ago. So it does not matter when, how or where you served... you served and that makes you a veteran.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Nov 23 at 2015 10:06 PM

2015-11-23T22:06:50-05:00

Yes! You signed on the Dotted Line promising if necessary Uncle Sam your service up to and including your life in necessary. Not everybody that serves, serves during wartime and those that even do during wartime don't necessarily end up on the Front Line. I did 21 years in Navy Intelligence most of the time in Hawaii, Alaska, West Virginia, London and DC but I did get an all paid trip to Desert Storm/Southern Watch and Desert Strike. Even on those 2 trips no one took any pot shots at us (Never a good thing to do with a Navy Battlewagon). Served for a Few Years as Commander of my Local VFW too.

Response by SPC Eve Skinner made Nov 24 at 2015 1:19 AM

2015-11-24T01:19:47-05:00

Everyone who has served honorably are veterans period. It doesn't matter if they have seen combat or not, they have in many ways contributed to their team, their unit and the Military. If you think about it, all the MOS in the military are essential to the mission, without the fuelers, cooks, medics, supply, ammo, mechanics and etc. the military will be disabled with no limbs. Don't think what you did while you served is less honorable then the man who pulled the trigger, you helped put him there and brought him home safely. We should thank all veterans regardless of what they did in the services because without them doing their very best in what they do, America wouldn't be America today. So thank you all for your service.

Response by PO1 Cameron Rhyne made Nov 24 at 2015 1:27 AM

2015-11-24T01:27:54-05:00

As long as someone who served did their job to the best of their ability while they were in and finished with an honorable discharge, I don't see why not. Most of the military is not directly involved in combat and hasn't been in a long time, but the guy cooking your food, making sure the engines on the ship keep turning or makes sure that your beans, bullets and bandages make it to where they're going contributes to the mission as well as the guy on the front lines.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2015 8:15 AM

2015-11-24T08:15:30-05:00

I'm not voting you down, but that doesn't mean I agree with you.

Your post has the Purple Heart in it. So are you more of a veteran if you have a wound, than if you were just shot at? And are you more of a veteran if you lost a limb, than if you were just wounded? And that brings up the question of who REALLY are veterans; perhaps only the ones 6 feet down count.

If you signed the black check and completed the term of service you signed up for, you are a veteran.

Response by 1LT Aaron Barr made Nov 24 at 2015 10:45 AM

2015-11-24T10:45:35-05:00

Absolutely! First, do any of us really want to go to war? Don't we know, better than anybody, the true cost of war? Further, huge numbers of us, including almost every single one of my uncles, served in peacetime; the fact that they and those like them were there were, ready and willing to fight, is the biggest reason why they never needed to.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2015 11:16 AM

2015-11-24T11:16:04-05:00

Absolutely. There are veterans and then there are combat veterans. Some people hide from deployments (IMO 99% of E-7s or MAJs and above without a combat patch) while others really never got the chance to go. On the other hand, it was pretty easy to volunteer prior to 2011 but many decided against it because "they had a family".

Response by SGT Charles Jewell made Nov 24 at 2015 1:24 PM

2015-11-24T13:24:49-05:00

A "Veteran" by definition is "a person who has served in the military". I would say you are overthinking it.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2015 2:19 PM

2015-11-24T14:19:27-05:00

No question. Yes.

Response by 1SG Paul DeStout made Nov 24 at 2015 4:33 PM

2015-11-24T16:33:06-05:00

I think that if you sign your name and take the oath that states you will do anything to defend the Constitution of the United States; then you are a Veteran. There is the term Veteran of Foreign War for a reason.

Response by SPC Lloyd Putman III made Nov 24 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-11-24T17:51:49-05:00

Anyone who served is a veteran, you are trying to distinguish between a "Combat veteran" and a "Veteran"

Not a veteran is someone who either didn't serve, didn't finish training, or got kicked out for their stupidity and some of them are still considered veterans.

We have multiple generations of veterans in my family, up both sides of the tree. I was shot at, like most who crewed helicopters flying the DMZ corridors in Korea, but that is not considered combat. Even for those periods where we US troops bore witness to hostility between the Koreas. Stop being like the punks in Washington and trying to rewrite what a veteran is.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2015 6:16 PM

2015-11-24T18:16:42-05:00

Veteran is not defined by combat tours. It is defined by the time spent and experience gained while serving in an occupation, any occupation. It is most commonly used with those either in service or former service to the country but it is not solely a military identifier

Response by Cpl Mark McMiller made Nov 25 at 2015 12:21 AM

2015-11-25T00:21:24-05:00

Any person who graduated recruit training is a veteran...period.

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Nov 25 at 2015 10:12 AM

2015-11-25T10:12:11-05:00

I see and agree with many of the comments here but I'd like to extend it even further. Anyone who at one point signed the dotted line knowing that it could at any given time mean their lives would be forfeit, served honorably and received an honorable discharge, or retired after faithful service is a veteran in my books.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Nov 25 at 2015 1:20 PM

2015-11-25T13:20:19-05:00

This is ridiculous.

Response by PO3 Larry McTernan made Nov 25 at 2015 1:24 PM

2015-11-25T13:24:32-05:00

If you sign on the dotted line & take the Oath of Allegiance, serve for 180 days ir more, you are. Stopping a bullet or being a magnet fir shrapnell means that the Purple Heart eas awarded for being a casualty of war; it does NOT mean that you have more status as a vet than say a sildier who never got orders for combat. NOT their fault.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2015 5:26 PM

2015-11-25T17:26:43-05:00

I believe that anyone who has put their name on the dotted line and written a blank check to the US for an amount up to and including their life, is a vetran. Do I give them creedence over a veteran who has been in combat, or toured theater elsewhere? Not at all. However, they are still a veteran, in my opinion.

Response by LCpl Stanley Frieze made Nov 25 at 2015 5:38 PM

2015-11-25T17:38:12-05:00

Should we be any less Proud that we served just because we weren't put in harms way? I don't know about you but all the time I was in I was ready to do my duty. Is my oath worth less just because I wasn't asked to prove I meant it? Yes we have the right to stand up and proudly sai I served. I would not take honor I didn't earn but I won't deny the honor that I did earn either.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2015 5:46 PM

2015-11-25T17:46:39-05:00

What makes a veteran is taking on the responsibility of being under orders that may lead you into harm's way.

You often do not get to decide what you do, or where you are stationed in the military, and no one can dictate whether there will even be conflict while one is on Oath to the Constitution.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Nov 25 at 2015 5:48 PM

2015-11-25T17:48:08-05:00

There is a HUGE difference, between "Veteran" and "Combat Veteran". I am a Veteran - I served in the Navy 22 years. I am NOT a Combat Veteran - I never saw combat. It's that simple...

Response by Sgt Jude Eden made Nov 25 at 2015 10:26 PM

2015-11-25T22:26:29-05:00

Yes, however I don't think it's right that everyone who deploys is considered a combat veteran. It's a misnomer, misleading & I think it takes away from those who engage in actual combat. I thought it was a mistake when the VA told me I'm a combat vet. Even having worked checkpoint duty on the outskirts, out makes me cringe. Being in the combat zone, even doing a dangerous job there, is not the same as direct combat.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Nov 26 at 2015 8:07 AM

2015-11-26T08:07:03-05:00

SPC David Hannaman My Dad, my Uncles, and I all share being a combat veteran, but that makes us no more a Veteran than someone who served honorably at a time when war and combat deployments were not happening. We all write the same blank check. Where and how we serve as well as what circumstance is rarely up to the individual. All Veterans deserve to be recognized. Simply my opinion.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2015 8:13 AM

2015-11-26T08:13:26-05:00

I believe as long as there is a distinction between veteran and combat veteran, everyone should be able to classify themselves in the correct category. You can't decide when the country goes to war, what your deployment schedule is, or when the enemy will engage you. What you decided is that service to your country was important enough to you took an oath to serve in the military, making you a veteran. If you're lucky enough to pull on some triggers or drop some bombs, call yourself a combat veteran. Either way, be proud of your service to country and wear the title with pride.

Response by SGM Ray Whitaker made Nov 26 at 2015 9:46 AM

2015-11-26T09:46:48-05:00

By definition (depending on where you look) a veteran is someone who served honorably during their military service. Most deem this to be with a discharge of honorable and general in nature.

This is the broad term everyone uses these days but you still have focused veterans such as: Vietnam Vets, OIF Vets, OEF Vets, etc.

Bottom line, if you volunteered, did your part and got out in good terms you are a veteran. Combat has nothing to do with it.

Response by SSgt Jae Johnson made Nov 26 at 2015 11:08 AM

2015-11-26T11:08:50-05:00

I spent a total of 15 years serving this country, 6 on active duty with the Army the rest with the Chair National Guard. I was stationed at Ft. Drum when the towers fell. In all of that time I was never once in a position to deploy, even though I desperately wanted to. So I have a hard enough time dealing with that but I am still damn proud to call myself a Veteran.

Response by SPC Heath Todd made Nov 26 at 2015 12:18 PM

2015-11-26T12:18:01-05:00

The only reason I didn't get to see combat was the Gulf War was ending by the time I became eligible to enlist. I asked for the next best option that I could volunteer for that would get me in a situation that I could do what I wanted to for my country. I got Korea as the answer. I should of studied up a little in history before going there as we had been in peace times with that country for decades but in 1996 it was my only option for anything that would perhaps see some action. I did the year tour there didn't get to see any action, came back to Ft. Riley, and ended my enlist with active duty. Years later I returned to service in the National Guard(I missed having buddies). The national guard was a different breed of characters and there wasn't the closeness of buddies like there was on active duty where you all were assigned to a section and hung out in the barracks after work. I didn't have any options available that would allow me to see combat. I was much older(in my 30's) and I didn't have the hard charging, want to whip some ass, attitude I had when I was 19. I find it repulsive that someone would even consider stripping the title of veteran from people just because they hadn't been to battle. I've run into some that think because of a patch on the right arm, they've all of a sudden become a better person than you when it comes to soldiering. Pretty egotistical if you ask me. Some of the folks sporting combat patches may have been to theater but they haven't actually been in "battle". I remember some soldiers being pissed because one of the AD members of the unit applied for and was awarded the combat action award given for when you have an ied go off close to you or some other sort of narrowly missed dangerous scenario. They say the whole time he was in Iraq, he had a desk job and never left the safe confines of the compound. I'm saying combat veterans shouldn't be proud of what they've done or the opportunities they had to do it. I'm just don't try to make the rest of us lower class soldiers just because we weren't able to achieve the same "greatness" the rest of you have. Last I checked we were all in the same brotherhood. Stick together and let us all be proud of what we've done to serve the country we love. Happy Thanksgiving and God Bless America! (Wrote on an iPhone, sorry for any autocorrect or grammar mistakes).

Heath

Response by SPC Elizabeth Pello made Nov 26 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-11-26T14:09:59-05:00

You do deserve it

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Nov 26 at 2015 3:23 PM

2015-11-26T15:23:14-05:00

If you served, you earned it! End of damn question!

Response by SGT Sean Whitenton made Nov 26 at 2015 5:24 PM

2015-11-26T17:24:14-05:00

Veteran and combat Veteran are not the same thing. If you served, yeah- you can call yourself a Veteran. You can't control where you are sent or what mission you may be assigned. You could volunteer to deploy multiple times and never get to do anything more exciting than sit in the TOC. Conversely, you can try to get out of deploying, be a complete shitbag, and wind up spending most of your time outside the wire; a Soldier has a limited ability to control what he winds up doing in theater- or even if he gets to go to OCUNUS.

Response by MSG David Holmden made Nov 27 at 2015 12:03 PM

2015-11-27T12:03:39-05:00

I look at it as two-fold, you have Veteran and Combat Veteran. Due to my specialty in the service I wasn't chosen to deploy, I volunteered on 3 different occasions and was turned down every time. Am I a Veteran yes, combat Veteran no. That's how you can distinguish between the two. I had a CSM tell me after the second time trying to deploy say, SFC if the Army wanted you they know where to find you and know your skills, your abviously good at what you do, do your job and be proud of what you do. Did it burn at my soul that I didn't deploy, definitely, but you can only do what you can do. Do I stand when I'm somewhere they ask Vets to stand, yes, and proudly do so.

Response by Cpl Warren Howerter made Nov 27 at 2015 1:29 PM

2015-11-27T13:29:05-05:00

Personally I find the question almost insulting. There are more ways to serve. My whole family is full of veterans. Dating back to the civil war. So to ask that question. I'm thinking you may have wanted to p$&@ people off. Once you take that oath you put yourself in harms way. The Marine Corps was the best thing to happen to a little sh&t like me. There is nothing like putting your life in someone else's hands and expect them not to have butter fingers. So yes they are under any circumstance. Even if you get the BCD you still took the oath to die for your country if need be.

Response by SSgt Khanh Pham made Nov 27 at 2015 1:34 PM

2015-11-27T13:34:39-05:00

Yes and no. Legally veteran are defined. If you want to seperate the more honorable from less honorable, what make you think your designation is any more valid that the legal terms. We can go to any arbitrary devision. From those who has 100 confirmed killed, to 10, to zero kill. Anyway, I think we have many things to excercise our thoughts with. I never really worked for honor so it means nothing to me. The work employment preference means little to me. It makes zero difference in my job hunt for 2 years. Gimmicks my brothers in arms. You define everything. WHO care what honor other judge you by, if you are who you are through and through.

Response by CPT Jason Torpy made Nov 27 at 2015 10:53 PM

2015-11-27T22:53:28-05:00

doesn't matter what anyone 'thinks'. The definition of 'veteran' is military service not combat service. It's stolen valor to say otherwise, in this case an attempt to steal the valor of those who service and just didn't happen to serve in combat. (and I can wear 1AD on my right shoulder in case anyone wonders)

Response by PFC Jason Jackson made Nov 28 at 2015 1:58 AM

2015-11-28T01:58:37-05:00

If you have the guts to sign up knowing you might never come home alive, then you are a veteran. If you never go to combat then you wouldn't be a "Combat Veteran". But, nonetheless, you are still a veteran.

Response by SGT Damon Walton made Nov 28 at 2015 3:45 PM

2015-11-28T15:45:49-05:00

Being a veteran is the honor of serving one's nation via the military regardless of branch or combat. Some vets served in between major wars and conflicts. The fact if you raised our right and swore a oath more than many are willing to do even or think about. Take pride that you were able to put on the uniform whether it was 4 years or 20 years. We all have role to play from combat arms to logistics. Like a football team, we all can't be the quarterback.

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Nov 28 at 2015 7:28 PM

2015-11-28T19:28:38-05:00

No disrespect intended, but this question ruffles my feathers. I served with honor, doing a non-combat job that I cannot discuss because of the high security clearance I have once held. I have earned a wartime medal for being overseas at the time of the Persian Gulf War (The NDSM), and I know for a fact, from veterans who fought in combat, that I am no less a veteran than they are.

Response by Cpl Clinton Britt made Nov 28 at 2015 7:46 PM

2015-11-28T19:46:24-05:00

If you served with honor, you are a Veteran.

Response by LCpl Brian Toop made Nov 28 at 2015 9:54 PM

2015-11-28T21:54:29-05:00

I tend to agree with Merriam-Webster. Veteran: (1b) a former member of the armed forces. I am a (combat) veteran myself, but I don't see why anyone who hasn't seen combat but still felt compelled enough to sign the dotted line to should be denied the title and respect of veteran solely based on the fact that he did not see combat.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Nov 29 at 2015 4:22 PM

2015-11-29T16:22:32-05:00

I'm one of those people that didn't get a Purple Heart, but I consider myself a veteran. I was one of the lucky ones that didn't get my number called for the draft. I turned 18 in 1969. In 1974 when it was not the most popular thing to do, I enlisted. I didn't get sent to VN. My unit was on alert about once every 90 days because of one incident or another happening in the world. We never knew which one would be the ONE. I missed being sent to Panama both times. I missed being sent to Haiti. I missed being sent to Grenada, Desert Storm, Rwanda and Bosnia. It just so happens that in every case I was either in a different part of the world doing my Patriotic duty or I was mission essential at the location I was assigned. I was "deployed" to other parts of the world that DOD considered important at the time. I was in Berlin facing communist every day before the Wall came down. I was in Korea during the year of the Olympics and stayed on alert because there was the threat that the North would do something. I've provided security for two Presidents and one King. I've guarded Vietnamese and Cuban refugees. I was in the planning cells for both Rwanda and Bosnia. So is it my fault that the Army didn't send me somewhere or that I didn't get shot. By the way I have been shot at, had knives pulled on me had things thrown at me been punched, bit by by a working dog and this was all in the line of duty. So I guess because I wasn't drafted in '69 and served 2 years in a combat zone and got wounded I'm not a vet. I've never claimed to be a hero and never will but I am a Veteran. I'm done preachin' now.

Response by SSgt Paul Esquibel made Nov 29 at 2015 10:10 PM

2015-11-29T22:10:00-05:00

I think anyone that makes a decision to server is a Veteran however how you chose to describe yourself while serving is different. I think of a Soldier as someone who has served in Combat vs Veteran is a broad understanding that you made a choice that "IF" you see combat then you will lie down your life for your countries freedoms. I think your question is fair because you feel like that even though you were not in immediate danger that you didn't do anything, and that's simply not true, you helped the big picture, someone had to fix that aircraft, someone had to fly that aircraft you did your part so they could do theirs. Were a team, if one fails we all fail and one prospers we all prosper and this is true as a whole. The service you provided indirectly provided protection for someone, feel honor in that because you did your job effectively that you prevented someones death, outside of that, how you chose to describe what type of Veteran is soley up to you, but to me Veteran is like the word American, in that your just a Veteran, not a combat veteran, not any etc, just like your an American.

Response by TSgt David Woodford made Nov 30 at 2015 12:09 AM

2015-11-30T00:09:18-05:00

I was never assigned outside of CONUS. I was on a mobility assignment for several years. I was in between Vietnam and Desert Storm. I was ready and willing to go where ever I was ordered. I'm absolutely a veteran!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2015 12:56 AM

2015-11-30T00:56:28-05:00

Absolutely! A citizen of our nation took the courage to do what others didn't, sacrificing their time, their body, their mind, their family, doing whatever is necessary (whether they went to combat or not) in defense of the nation, and the betterment of society. Yes individual experiences may very, but to swear an oath to take up arms at any time (once again whether they do or not) is a very high honor that should be respected by everyone who calls them self an American.

Response by SGT Matthew Maginn made Nov 30 at 2015 5:16 AM

2015-11-30T05:16:28-05:00

If you have to apologize to start, you're an idiot and know it! Ask my father, Vietnam vet of 5 tours, bronze star and 2 purple hearts, in the thick of Hamburger Hill, if his son is a vet because of lack of action and I'm sure he'd offer your family my assistance to play taps at your funeral. IDIOT!!!

Response by LCpl Pedro Hernandez made Nov 30 at 2015 7:58 AM

2015-11-30T07:58:04-05:00

Well.... To begin I would say that anyone that call themselves veterans should ask themselves if they finish their contract and obligation. Then there are 2 types of Veterans on my book . 1 Veteran of service and 2 Combat Veteran. We all did a job and the diference is that we all trained for combat in bootcamp. But some of us actually being in combat or being deployed to another country to do our job. Then there are the ones that serve during peace time . They did their jobs also .... they are veterans....
So plain and simple. .. Is like an UFC fighter that trains but never touch the ring . Sorry if I offended anyone but reality is hard sometimes. So SEMPER FI TO ALL AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL HERE AND OVER THERE

Response by SGT John Canfield made Nov 30 at 2015 9:52 AM

2015-11-30T09:52:17-05:00

Of course they do... However those who had less than 180 days on active duty other than for training, or NEVER completed MOS Training let alone Basic because of inability to adapt, faking injuries or not, Psychological, & ran around saying FTA or impugning the character of those who were attempting to be professional and keep their Military bearing, or just could not take orders & the simulated stress of Military life period... It's those individuals who tend to embellish their short pathetic service careers and create this type of divisiveness! I have several in-laws that never made it through basic who are the biggest losers and constantly give me grief for only serving on active duty for 10 years!

Response by SGT Eric Mangin made Nov 30 at 2015 6:51 PM

2015-11-30T18:51:56-05:00

being a 20 year man, my last year was in IRAQ. Just a wheel mechanic for a company of gun trucks. served in the "zone" but did not see any action. Did my part, and yes even the servicemen and women in uniform who have not been in combat but provide other vital roles are veterans!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2015 11:20 PM

2015-11-30T23:20:54-05:00

It took me a long time not to be embarrassed about my lack of a combat veteran status. I don't try to glorify myself, or act like a "hero". I'm a guy that joined because I wanted to serve my country and my Soldiers. To say that I'm not a veteran means that once I've left the service I have NOTHING to say I was part of the military. My job was to send people overseas and bring them home and make sure that when they got home, they received the medical care that they deserve.

What exactly do you think qualifies a veteran then? You said you don't feel you deserve it because you went there and fixed engines. Do you need to get shot at? Wounded? Killed?

There is a difference between being honest about your service and trying to steal glory that isn't yours (not necessarily Stolen Valor, but those guys that act like they singlehandedly affected the outcome of everything).

I have a bigger issue with identifying myself as a "disabled veteran", as I have a 10% rating for a back injury that was aggravated by being medical and just a coincidental discovery regarding it. That one I don't advertise unless it's a close-knit group, and am very careful to explain that I'm NOT a combat veteran, nor am I "combat disabled". As long as you are honest about what you did (or didn't) do, then I don't see any issue.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 2:37 AM

2015-12-01T02:37:07-05:00

I did eight and hit the gate with an Honorable, but if people ask me if I'm a veteran I say no. I say I'm prior service.

Response by A1C Stanley Kolakowski made Dec 1 at 2015 9:19 AM

2015-12-01T09:19:59-05:00

Why does everyone automatically think that "combat" involves the "front lines"?

You want a "fire threat"? I lived every day under the threat of waking up / walking around / looking out a window and seeing a warhead falling from the sky that would wind up saying "you've been nuked". Not just "in a strike zone", I mean close enough to read the writing on said warhead before it goes boom.

You want "casualties"? The slightest slip up of my mouth to / near the wrong person could have cost us any number of people's lives as the enemy would know more than they needed to, like how to beat us.

You want to know my "weapon"? It was the computer I used to do my job on.

And no, I wasn't in "Cyber warfare", I was in before it was really it's own division, at the time of my service Cyber was handled by Satellite Command...

Ah, the joys of being a computer programmer on an R&D base. While I never actually picked up or rode in an M-whatever, flew an A-, F- or B-something, etc. etc. - basically be in a position where I had to apply a painful device to someone else, saying that I didn't "fight" for my country is... interesting... to say the least.

And that chef that made sure we were all fed? Were we not HIS (or HER) weapon?

Response by SFC David Welch made Dec 1 at 2015 11:04 AM

2015-12-01T11:04:12-05:00

they who guard hall ways serve.
it took 6 men to support each man on the line European theater
it took 26 men to support each marine on the line pacific theater
the blood you bleed getting part or all of you crushed by a crate aircraft shipped in very large crates deserves a purple heart
without these men in support U would be dead or a POW

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Dec 1 at 2015 1:29 PM

2015-12-01T13:29:44-05:00

Seriously? This is one of the stupidest statements ever. I served on submarines. Boomers for awhile. We could blow up the entire world (or a good chunk of it). Our mission was to NOT be used. We hid out for months at a time underwater. If you think that means I'm not a veteran, (as put in here elsewhere) go piss up a rope. The only thing that bothered me was people who never went to sea but got sea time based on where they were stationed. Didn't mean they weren't a veteran tho.

Response by Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin made Dec 1 at 2015 1:58 PM

2015-12-01T13:58:11-05:00

The question by itself is not insulting but when you added the piece "I always feel a bit like they're disrespecting the guys who went to Vietnam or participated in the War on terror" you have essentially stated your opinion (no). We all have a roll in this military and a job we are given to do. Those who found the loop holes to avoid deployment and/or direct combat know what they have done and have to live with that. But when you say you feel some Veteran's are disrespecting others who went to a combat zone, you're essentially redefining the word to mean something it's not. Especially when you later add another qualifier, the Purple Heart. Were these people asked to stand up if they were wounded in Combat? No! What about those who fought in direct combat and were never injured? Are they disrespecting them too? As just about everyone on this thread has stated, all those who served in the military honorably for any amount of time are defined as Veterans. We have other designations and honors for those who earned Purple Hearts, Medals for Valor, etc... Knowing this I would expect all Veterans, who were never injured in combat, not to stand up if they are asked if they earned a Purple Heart.

The problem is, you are redefining the word Veteran. The word is not meant to define someone who has faced the enemy in direct combat. If you add qualifiers, where does it begin/end? Is a fighter pilot a Veteran? What if he never faced an air-to-air engagement? To go a little father, let's say he flew over Iraq as an escort to a bombing mission but never got shot at. Is that person not a Veteran? What about all the support personnel who deploy but never leave the base? If that doesn't qualify them as Veterans, what about those who are faced with rocket attacks on a regular basis throughout their deployment? Then there's the guys who go behind the wire on a regular basis and somehow still never see combat, IEDs, etc... Are they not Veterans? You spoke of the folks on carriers... are you saying that the majority of the Navy who spend their entire time on board the ship cannot be considered Veterans? What exactly would your definition be to define a Veteran?

Personally, I'm very surprised there's even a small amount of people who voted "no" in your poll. I looked through this entire thread and tried to find one of them defend such a vote and could not find one (I might have missed it). I would like to see this person (people) defend that vote.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 2:36 PM

2015-12-01T14:36:58-05:00

Alright... So I may only be an A1C with just over a year of service. I come from a long line of combat veterans from WWI to Saudi, and here I am sitting behind a desk in some stupid ass job that I absolutely hate. I feel like I'm contributing nothing to my country, so, for the most part, no. You don't necessarily have to see combat in my opinion. It's conditional to me. Anyone can go "overseas,' but unless you have played a supporting role in a combat or support mission, I don't think you can call yourself a veteran. My NAF has played a large role in taking down ISIL/ISIS HVT's, but I had no direct role in it. So as of now, I don't consider myself a "veteran."

Response by SPC William Weedman made Dec 1 at 2015 3:50 PM

2015-12-01T15:50:23-05:00

Response by COL George Antochy made Dec 1 at 2015 11:55 PM

2015-12-01T23:55:59-05:00

Absolutely! Less than 1% of military age males/females are willing to serve in the Armed Forces. Service Members do not get to pick and choose whether we are at war or not, that is for our politicians. Everyone who serves regardless of whether they were in direct/indirect combat or not have earned the right to be called a veteran and should be extremely proud of that. I served 7+ years on active duty during the Cold War and then 22 years in the Army Reserve. When I applied for Federal employment I learned that I was not entitled to Veteran's preference. One year after becoming a Federal employee I was finally granted Veteran's preference because I was mobilized for DS/DS. But guess what, so was everyone else who was on duty during that time period, whether they were deployed or mobilized or did nothing more than their normal peacetime duties. Some members of our society 'hate' the 1%, but they are referring to those who are successful and are well to do. Hopefully our Nation will never again hate the other 1%, those who were/are willing to Serve this great Nation to ensure it's security.

Response by SSG Michael Hathaway made Dec 2 at 2015 9:07 AM

2015-12-02T09:07:57-05:00

Late response, but saw this in my trending feed...
Personally, I am disgusted by such a question. I have several relatives; cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and even my dad...all served honorably in every branch of the military. True, some did not serve during a time of war, some did but didn't deploy, some did deploy and came home, and sadly some did deploy and paid for our freedom. A veteran is a veteran, doesn't matter if they got shot at by the enemy or not.

Lets take your question further...maybe people shouldn't be called a veteran unless they got injured in combat, or they went black on ammo. Or maybe you shouldn't call yoursefl a veteran unless someone died in your arms. Or maybe unless you shot and killed an enemy target. Do you see the ridiculousness of those statements? That's what I equate your question to.

Response by PO2 Michael Henry made Dec 2 at 2015 11:00 AM

2015-12-02T11:00:05-05:00

You served in the military honorably (hopefully), you can call yourself a veteran even if you actually never saw combat. If you were assigned to the 101st, then you can wear the patch. If you took part in Desert Storm operations (combat, support, etc) then yes you can wear Desert Storm identifiers. Not everyone has the chance to see combat first hand. I was on an aircraft carrier that took part in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom in 2010. We took part in Iraqi Freedom for 2 weeks and not sure if we were close enough to start the 30/60 day timer. Either way, I don't have either campaign medal but I do have both GWOT medals. The Afghanistan Campaign Medal required that I had to be in Afghanistan for 30 days consecutive or 60 days nonconsecutive.

Response by SFC Thomas Howes made Dec 2 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-12-02T12:00:20-05:00

You have all types of veterans combat and noncombat that is how I look at itif you were in country in a combat zone you are a veteran now if you did not deploy any were and stayed home you are a non-combat vet now remember we did fight a few little battles like Grenada how many of you remember that one and Somalia, panama then there is the cold war vet’s non-combat from 1945-1991 so what I am saying there are all types of vet’s

Response by COL John Hudson made Dec 3 at 2015 7:33 AM

2015-12-03T07:33:23-05:00

David, the entirety of this issue revolves around one word..."Semantics." Armies don't send every "body" downrange. Some have to serve in support rolls to ensure the tip of the spear gets what it needs. Do their efforts deserve any less recognition than that of the one in direct combat? So, we separate it via identification. I completed two tours in Vietnam. Therefore, I am a "Vietnam Veteran." My brother served on Navy submarines during the Vietnam conflict. He is therefore a "Vietnam-Era Veteran." Each roll is recognized by proper military service awards granted for the individual's efforts in their branch of service. When Veterans are asked to stand up, we both do so with pride ("Veterans" being an all-encompassing term). We each did our part and my brother should not be denigrated by being seen as less. Hope this helps to understand the difference in rolls that each play.

Response by PO2 Richard Shane made Dec 3 at 2015 4:37 PM

2015-12-03T16:37:26-05:00

Ask a submariner if he isn't a veteran

Response by 1LT David Moeglein made Dec 3 at 2015 5:07 PM

2015-12-03T17:07:37-05:00

Everyone that signs on the dotted line has skin in the game.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2015 7:42 PM

2015-12-03T19:42:22-05:00

If you put your life in the hands of your nation to keep them safe for whatever may occur, then I don't see why you would not be able to consider yourself a veteran.

Response by SPC Adam Shaw made Dec 4 at 2015 3:08 AM

2015-12-04T03:08:59-05:00

I was always told once there were 3 types of veterans .
1. Veterans = people who served in the military but never deployed overseas .
2. War Veterans = people who deployed overseas but never saw combat .
3 . Combat Veterans = people who deployed overseas , and saw combat.
Now im not trying to say one is better than the other , I've got friends who have been to war zones and never left the wire . Its like any other business in life some one has to get out there and get their hands dirty , all the while we need other people to keep the lights on and supplies moving.

Response by SFC Jay Spreitzer made Dec 5 at 2015 2:28 AM

2015-12-05T02:28:37-05:00

Just because you were not deployed to a combat zone does not mean you are not a veteran. While I did deployed to the Middle East several times, prior to that I supported operations in Panama from the states. We work hard to support units in Panama. When enlisting we all have the potential to be in harms way whether peacetime or wartime service we are all veterans.

As for Vietnam Veteran plates, for someone that did not serve in the theater that seems odd. I know to get state issued Persian Gulf War plates I had to show proof that I served in the theater.

Response by SFC Jeffrey Couch made Dec 15 at 2015 1:24 PM

2015-12-15T13:24:29-05:00

If I read your post correct you have veterans who are members of the United States armed forces then you have combat veterans we are the ones deployed in support of a unit or battalion and to awnser your question if his 214 says that he was mobilized to a theater of operation yes he would be allowed the plates but if his 214 only has him serving but not in support or in a theater the he should be only allowed the veteran decal on his plates hope this helps to me some claiming combat and never been through what we have is the same as stolen valor as far as I'm concerned

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Dec 17 at 2015 5:30 PM

2015-12-17T17:30:31-05:00

Yes, I'd be quite pissed if someone in my face said I wasn't a real Veteran for not have combat time. In fact, it would be hard for me not to show them a little combat scenario...

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2015 5:01 AM

2015-12-19T05:01:43-05:00

Personally i feel as though the title Veteran is a position of honor and I never refer to my self as that however I would not discourage others from calling me that. And i would never tell some one that has served that they haven't earned that title, even if they were nondeployable.

Response by SCPO Charles Thomas "Tom" Canterbury made Dec 20 at 2015 11:21 AM

2015-12-20T11:21:22-05:00

Sometimes people are in MOS or billets that do not deploy. But the definition of a veteran is someone who served at least 180 days in uniform.

I wanted to deploy more than what I did in 22 years but only deployed 6 times. But out of 22 years of service I was on sea duty in a deplorable billet for over 11 years of it and spent time away from home port that was not countable as a deployment which would have equated to at least 2 more extended deployments.

You do what you are ordered to do. As I told my folks who got out after their first term, "whether or not you did 4 years or 24, always be proud of your accomplishments and don't let anyone tell you that they were insignificant. You have done what more than 90% of your fellow citizens chose not or were too scared to do. Always look back at how you have grown during this time."

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2015 2:34 PM

2015-12-21T14:34:18-05:00

what one may consider combat another may not. The soldier who dealt with something terrible, or even went in when there was no war. They are a veteran too. There are a lot of people who couldn't/wouldn't/shouldn't cannot enter the military. There are not too many old vets left and us 'younger' ones are here to carry that torch. You serve a little while, or a long while, a vet is a vet is a vet.

Response by PV2 Bengie Gonzalz LMHC made Dec 24 at 2015 6:40 PM

2015-12-24T18:40:54-05:00

I feel I'm a veteran because I sworn an Oath and wore the Uniform. My unit in the Nation Guard went to Iraq I didn't. I have never asked for any benefits and I show respect to all the veterans combat and non combat alike. I went in as a ROTC cadet when I went in and I was given and E2 ranking at separation.

Response by SrA Marlin Taylor made Jan 5 at 2016 9:53 PM

2016-01-05T21:53:46-05:00

I only spent a few years in the USAF. When I got out, I used the truck driving experience I got to become a truck driver in the civilian life. I was working for Halliburton out of Houston. Guess where I was when Desert Shield changed to Desert Storm. I was there with you guys and we went into several oil fires still getting shot at in Kuwait and put them out. So I may be a USAF veteran, but I saw several things in Desert Storm that no Civilian should ever see.

Response by SSgt Thomas A Tullis Jr made Jan 6 at 2016 8:16 AM

2016-01-06T08:16:23-05:00

Insulting isn't quite the right word. Obviously you equate veteran with combat. Many veterans weren't given the "option" of combat or non-combat. The requirements of military service dictate where and when one goes. I didn't see combat but I consider myself a veteran. Why you ask? I earned that FUCKING right by signing the dotted line. I gave my country a blank check payable up to including my life.

Response by CSM Michael Poll made Jan 6 at 2016 8:24 AM

2016-01-06T08:24:06-05:00

While they are not a Combat veteran, they are still a veteran. Service to the Armed Forces gives them this title. Even if they have not served in a forward element, or gone to war, they have served.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2016 9:36 AM

2016-01-06T09:36:27-05:00

Someone who served honorably, in our armed forces, is most definitely a veteran. This is a volunteer opportunity that anyone can get off their ass and do. Some choose not to. That is their decision. We have made ours.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2016 9:41 AM

2016-01-06T09:41:47-05:00

I generally don't stand up when asked in a crowd. I generally don't discuss what I do, or have done, in the military with anybody not affiliated with the military. It seems like the folks with all the Great War stories, usually exaggerate what they truly did.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2016 3:51 PM

2016-01-06T15:51:13-05:00

Should there be an extra title for someone who joined after the conflict has already began??? Or someone that was drafted??? I think the veteran title ultimately boils down to money in the way of the VA. It doesn't make a persons service any less important/selfless.

Response by Cpl Randal Van Es made Jan 7 at 2016 1:26 PM

2016-01-07T13:26:44-05:00

I had to block alot of Marine Corps facebook pages because i would end up in arguments every time i heard anyone without a CAR(Combat Action Ribbon) was a pogue poser. Disparaging my service because i served in the 90s where there werent many conflicts is a disgrace to our uniforms. I only say im a Persian Gulf Veteran so they know which era i served even though i was at MOS training while my unit was deployed to Iraq. I always fall back on the old Marine addage "Your approval is not required."

Response by MAJ Scott Meehan made Jan 7 at 2016 2:52 PM

2016-01-07T14:52:00-05:00

Crazy question because all veterans were offended. The answer is "Of Course." Although I was deployed to the Middle East three times between 1991-2005 in combat zones, I would still have considered myself a veteran for my time in service from 1980-1989 before I was deployed to any conflicts. Those were the years that the rest of the world did not want to mess with the American Vet.

Response by SGT Mitch McKinley made Jan 7 at 2016 5:33 PM

2016-01-07T17:33:25-05:00

I am more curious about those that voted sometimes!

Response by SFC Anthony Franke made Jan 7 at 2016 6:28 PM

2016-01-07T18:28:17-05:00

Servicemembers without combat experience are absolutely Veterans.
I joined in 1990, and did not get a true combat deployment until 2005. It's just how it worked out. There are millions of veterans that served their entire career, and even retired without a day of combat. As a general rule, you don't have control on when your unit deploys. Some people just miss out due to the luck or lack of luck of unit of assignment.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2016 6:53 PM

2016-01-07T18:53:33-05:00

If one signed the dotted line and took the oath, was honorably discharged = Veteran. It don't matter if a person didn't deploy to a combat zone. Some jobs are non-deployable and tend to serve as a stateside mission (Unit).

Response by Dalton Nichols made Jan 7 at 2016 8:30 PM

2016-01-07T20:30:02-05:00

According to;
38 U.S.C 4215(a) a veteran is one who had completed 180 or more days outside of training in any branch of the military.

Response by PFC James Mcginnis made Jan 8 at 2016 6:58 AM

2016-01-08T06:58:24-05:00

yes anyone who served their country honorably is a veteran. Thats why there are veterans and combat veterans. To show the distinction between who saw combat and who didnt. But I will say anyone who has served whether they saw combat or not deserves respect from civilians who wouldnt even think about stepping in a pair of combat boots or even on a battlefield for that matter.

Response by SFC William Adamek made Jan 8 at 2016 11:41 AM

2016-01-08T11:41:07-05:00

Little known tidbit of information and one that you will not be able to track down but those of us on recruiting duty during Desert Storm saw it.

Normally you wouldn't think of Military Recruiters being in harms way in their cushy little offices in downtown America but... During Desert Storm I, between all the military services, we had more military recruiters get killed or murdered as a result of being a recruiter than the number of military that we lost in in the Desert. This is not stated to demean or lessen those who fought or were lost in the desert but to bring out the idea that even though an individual may not be in a combat zone doesn't mean that they are necessarily in a position that is safe from repercussions from that conflict. To this day you still hear an occasional news tidbit about a recruiting station getting hit or targeted and they don't get the berms, guards or even the opportunity to be armed. Here is a recent example
http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2015/07/four-us-marines-killed-in-attacks-on-military-recruitment-offices/398786/

4 U.S. Marines and One Sailor Dead in Attack on Military Recruitment Offices

After having shot and killed four U.S. Marines at a facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the gunman was killed in the attack. A sailor died of his wounds on Saturday.

Response by SPC Joshua Dawson made Jan 12 at 2016 8:53 AM

2016-01-12T08:53:26-05:00

All are veterans whether it be by just going into service or if it is from baptism under fire but there is one thing that separates the two, most that have actually been in deep combat wish that they could've been one of the ones that weren't. There are many friends that I used to know that never got to see home again and there are several injuries that I received that I wish I never had because of trying to deal with the nonexistent VA "healthcare" and the long battle to even get benefits.

Response by CMSgt Charlie Eller made Jan 12 at 2016 11:01 AM

2016-01-12T11:01:18-05:00

This is the dumbest question I've seen on here!!! US Code 38 defines a veteran as: The term “Veteran” means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable. We also have veterans at their chosen profession as in veteran basketball player, veteran cop and so on.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Jan 12 at 2016 11:13 AM

2016-01-12T11:13:57-05:00

Would you tell the person who stood guard at the 1 K Zone, Checkpoint Charlie, or the DMZ not a veteran? They served with honor and deserve the title of Veteran. Likewise you should have no guilt wearing that honor as well. Had you not had the bird ready to go, certainly some one would of perished that is alive today.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 12 at 2016 3:10 PM

2016-01-12T15:10:22-05:00

As, far as I know there are two kinds of Veterans, peacetime veteran, and War time Veteran, so if you served on active duty, for 180 days, or more you are a Veteran. That set your question riht.

Response by 1SG Robert Rush made Jan 12 at 2016 6:27 PM

2016-01-12T18:27:36-05:00

People in the service, no matter which branch, have very little choice as to whether or not they serve in a combat zone. You if a person has served with honor , no matter where they were stationed, he or she is a veteran. Now those that have served in a combat zone are combat veterans. In today's military, when a person signs on the dotted line, they go where they are sent. I spent a tour in Vietnam(69-70) and one in Iraq(03). I didn't see the action in Iraq that I did in Vietnam, but make no mistake, it was a combat tour. It take everyone, not only those in theater, but those also out of theater to complete a combat mission. My hat is off to anyone that enlists in the US Military, active or reserves.

Response by SFC James Barnes made Jan 12 at 2016 8:58 PM

2016-01-12T20:58:25-05:00

yes they should be allowed to call themselves veterans. I don't see how this is an issue since they are veterans. If the person has seen combat I have now problem with them calling themselves combat veterans. Interesting question but kind of clear legally what the term means. IMHO

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2016 10:56 PM

2016-01-16T22:56:15-05:00

The answer to your last question has been determined by most, if not all, state legislatures on down to their respective DMVs: to get "Veteran" put on you driver's license, you must produce a DD-214 that shows you were in the military. To get a Vietnam Veteran plate, your DD-214 must indicate you served IN Vietnam or the contiguous waters surrounding it for a consecutive 180 days.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2016 5:12 PM

2016-01-23T17:12:58-05:00

Supporting troops is not always about going to combat. Supporting troops at home is vital as well.

Response by SSG Clarence Thomas made Sep 6 at 2016 10:53 PM

2016-09-06T22:53:02-04:00

As established by at least 90 days Active duty, I think you are considered a vet, not everyone can serve in combat, all logistics are needed, stateside and in combat

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Sep 8 at 2016 5:20 PM

2016-09-08T17:20:44-04:00

I was almost offered then I read the rest of you statement. I am a veteran and damn proud of it. Not everyone gets to go to combat even though my unit went when my mother passed away and when I got back I had to stay and run the rear S1. I had several opportunities and volunteered many time but my number was never taken. Some say its God way of taking care of us but who knows. But you my friend should not be embarrassed about standing up in public for what you did. It was your job and everyone has a job to do. Regardless to the advertising its not an Army of one its a whole lot bigger than that. Again I proudly call my self a veteran after almost 15 years if service and so should you.

Response by SMSgt Michael Carl made Sep 22 at 2016 2:21 PM

2016-09-22T14:21:46-04:00

Yes

Response by Sgt Edward Padget made Sep 22 at 2016 4:13 PM

2016-09-22T16:13:45-04:00

I understand where your coming from and how you feel. I served from 87-92 in the USAF. I was in the during the tail end of the "Cold War" years. In 91 when Desert Storm kicked off and people were deploying I was finishing up my short tour in S. Korea and getting ready to PCS back stateside. I was headed to Griffiss AFB, Rome NY. When I arrived some guys had deployed the majority of us had not. So the few "combat vets" who did return were kind of viewed as these super airmen. Even though we have no control over who is deployed it does leave a fellow feeling a little short when you check yourself against your peers. At the end of the day we are all veterans. I don't think "combat vets" feel the same way as "regular vets" of feeling they missed a call to action. I certainly don't think they hold it against other vets, because again we have no control over how that process is conducted. For whatever reason I tend to hold combat vets, for lack of a better explanation, in a higher regard. I don't do anything different really, it's just a personal feeling. Don't misunderstand me I respect and love all my Brothers in Arms. However, my brothers that saw combat really rose to the occasion. I've often thought combat veterans should have their own category. I feel this way because a combat tour has high probability that you may pay the ultimate price. So for those who did pay that price they should be recognized, as well as those who were fortunate to live through it. So to answer your question YES we should all be recognized as vets provided we meet the guidelines, and "combat vets" should be identified as such. Most of the combat vets I've talked to about this disagree. They say "We're all Vets." I think for me it comes more from a place of respect to want to identify them as "combat vets".

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Nov 8 at 2016 9:28 AM

2016-11-08T09:28:50-05:00

I SAW A QUESTION LIKE THIS THE OTHER DAY AND I HAD TO THINK ABOUT FOR A MINUTE BECAUSE THE QUESTION I ASKED IS, DO YOU CALL YOURSELF A VETERAN WHEN YOU USE THE ARMY'S MONEY TO GOTO SCHOOL FOR 3 OR 4 YEARS NEVER SEE COMBAT AND GET OUT AND GET A SUCCUESSFUL CIVIVLIAN JOB, HALF OF OUR VETERANS WHO HAVE 20 YEARS AND 2 OR 3 OR 4 COMBAT TOURS CAN'T EVEN GET A STABLE JOB. WHAT IS REAL VETERAN JUST SOMEONE WHO SERVED THEIR COUNTRY CAN YOU REALLY CALLEM A VETERAN.

STEPHENS'

Response by SSgt Boyd Welch made Nov 22 at 2016 8:49 AM

2016-11-22T08:49:20-05:00

I have been both. Some I talk about and some I don't. I am never as proud as I am when I stand next to my brother and sisters who kept ships operational, aircraft in the air, provided for morale and welfare, or recon and lived "outside the wire". One team and one mission... ensure the complete capitulation of the enemy and strive for stability. I think sometimes we good naturedly rib each other about each other's "Level of engagement". The uniform or job may be different but the commitment remains the same.

Response by SGT Forrest Stewart made Jun 1 at 2017 3:03 PM

2017-06-01T15:03:38-04:00

Yes, anyone that has honorably served in the military, whether they served in conflict or in a time of total peace, have the right and privilege to call themselves a Veteran. We didn't choose the conditions we served in. The military placed each of us where we were stationed. Cudos to all who served in time of peace and in time of war. God bless you all for serving our country in whatever capacity.

Response by Cpl Bob Kozak made Jun 1 at 2017 6:38 PM

2017-06-01T18:38:58-04:00

Whe never you join the military and you meet the minimum requirements you are a veteran. As an infantryman grunt I understand how many support personnel are required for me to do my job alone. And how many others are required to support those that support me. We were practicing a landing when two steam lines broke away from the ship and pinned two sailors in place and scaled them to death. Did they serve he'll ya. And fortunately for us we had those who processed our paid. And thanks to the corpsman who took care of our teeth nothing like a bad tooth when you have to leave you buddies. Get the picture. And let's not forget we all had to eat.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2017 9:22 AM

2017-06-12T09:22:24-04:00

You can only control certain things in life. One of the things you can't control is when and where wars break out and whether or not you get called to go. By making the decision to do your time on the wall you are a veteran. You can't control whether or not someone shoots at you while you're standing on said wall. But had no one been on the wall during the peaceful times, you can bet your bottom dollar our enemies would've taken advantage of that situation.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jun 12 at 2017 9:27 AM

2017-06-12T09:27:54-04:00

This is really an Iffy subject to veterans who have served in combat multiple times. because at one point I classified veterans into two categories and they were VETERANS and COMBAT VETERANS just like to classify the CAB and EAB or the CIB or the EIB, same thing really. in my case. You have no reason to display to the PH above to signify a VETERAN, not all VETERANS get the Purple Heart.

Response by LCpl Jim Pleace made Jun 22 at 2017 1:30 PM

2017-06-22T13:30:17-04:00

Veteran means you served. Peace time Military included.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Jun 22 at 2017 1:34 PM

2017-06-22T13:34:28-04:00

We do not all need a weapon to serve our country. We are there to support the fighting man and woman of our military. But we there ready if called. supporting when needed. Yes I am a Vet, I get my tags and all that goes with it. We endured very low wages, trying times and sometimes long thankless work hours. Separations and we could take it further. I am still proud to be a vet.

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Jun 29 at 2017 1:29 PM

2017-06-29T13:29:39-04:00

Just because someone served behind the scenes or in a non combat role does not make them any less of a Veteran. In fact those that did are as important, if not more, to the military than those who did serve on the front lines.

Without people in those positions, the rest of us would not have made it home. We would not have had the gear, the food, the medical care we needed to do our jobs either. Serving is serving as long as it was active duty and under honorable discharge when you got out. I include reserve duty and national guard duty as long as they served at some point on active as well.

If you never had active periods and your entire career was only weekends, I don't consider that to be active duty to the point you should be pinning on military plates etc.. Serving active vs serving ONLY weekends is a HUGE difference. While it is still service, it does not actually support active duty personnel, it is basically local state service unless federalized, which of course means you did have an active duty period.

As long as your active service was honorable and your discharge honorable, then ALL are entitled to carry the title of Veteran. As for 'general' discharge, to me that is a case by case basis... general discharge can be anything from something not in your control to getting rid of you but not warranting a full on bad conduct or dishonorable discharge. As for me, it stays with honorable discharge for those considered a Veteran with a few exceptions we know of that were railroaded by obama in the past few years..

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Aug 30 at 2017 9:23 PM

2017-08-30T21:23:58-04:00

First, are they a soldier, a marine, an airman or sailor. Do they do their uniform and job proud. Looking around I see many people around me wearing all kinds of Veteran bull who don't even appear to have served proudly

Response by SP5 Joel McDargh made Sep 20 at 2017 7:56 PM

2017-09-20T19:56:20-04:00

What kind of BS question is this? Any man or woman who puts on a military uniform is stating that he or she is prepared to give all for this country to include his or her life. Surviving their enlistment makes them a veteran and command my respect.

Response by GySgt Gunny Hayes made Nov 6 at 2017 7:53 AM

2017-11-06T07:53:29-05:00

He'll yes they signed the contract just like everyone else.just because combat did not come up at that time so the fucking what

Response by SGT William Ek made Jan 2 at 2018 10:27 PM

2018-01-02T22:27:14-05:00

If you served you should be called a veteran , and if you were in combat you should be called combat veteran very simple !

Response by SGT William Ek made Jan 2 at 2018 10:29 PM

2018-01-02T22:29:32-05:00

Right on airborne !

Response by SGT Russell Wickham made Jan 2 at 2018 11:03 PM

2018-01-02T23:03:23-05:00

I have a combat wounded license plate. I have veteran on my driver's license. I cut my hair in a high and tight because it's the only cut I know how to do and I'm too cheap to pay a barber. I dive for cover when low flying jets scream over, or fireworks go off around me.

I wear a big scruffy beard. I do not wear any military related insignia. I don't go out of my way to call attention to myself. I have the license plate because it's free for life. I have veteran on my license because the examiner was a veteran and put it there when I had to get my license activated after having the military non-expiration date on it due to extended overseas service. I wear the haircut because I do it myself. I pick myself up after diving for cover with a red face. I went, I did, I bled, but I lived.

I was part of a team. I didn't get to bring everyone home. They're the ones that should get the praise. They're the ones that deserve the respect. I did my part, but my part wasn't possible without all the help I had, and every member of that team is a veteran. That team deserves the credit.

So, I stand for my team mates that didn't get to come home and can't stand for themselves, when veterans are asked to identify themselves. I watch for other veterans who are down and out, and do what I can to help them. I don't judge them because they served in peace time or in the rear. They are veterans because they served. Combat didn't make me special; it made me messed up. Serving on the team made me a veteran.

Response by SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter made Jan 2 at 2018 11:27 PM

2018-01-02T23:27:13-05:00

What type of question is that? It is quite insulting.

Peace

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made Jan 7 at 2018 8:34 PM

2018-01-07T20:34:03-05:00

"A veteran (from Latin vetus, meaning "old") is a person who has had long service or experience in a particular occupation or field. " Not to be confused with combat/war veterans.

Response by SFC Quinn Chastant made Jan 18 at 2018 12:00 PM

2018-01-18T12:00:43-05:00

The legal term means if you've served and did so under honorable conditions, you are a veteran. As for how I view myself and service, well lets just say while I'm a veteran, I hold the younger people in service today are more deserving of the title, than myself. True not everyone who spends time in uniform are exposed to the same dangers based upon duties and position not every Soldier is in a Combat Position, but not every Combative would want to be a Support Soldier. But those who serve honorably do earn the title Veteran. & Yes, I too feel awkward if standing as a Veteran in a Civilian gathering, I did my job & nothing deserving exceptional recognition.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2018 12:08 PM

2018-01-18T12:08:55-05:00

I will tell you what DOES suck....and maybe I'm just complaining here. Active duty vs. Reserve Component. Active duty veteran status: 90 consecutive days. (basically BCT and some change). Reserve Component veteran status: (SIX EFFING YEARS). That is assuming both use-cases in the "rear". I went to get a VA home loan in my Fifth year, 8th month. I have not deployed to a combat zone but do have overseas mission experience. I was DECLINED! That's right.....I had to wait until I hit six years to be qualified as a veteran. Whereas my little brother, was in less than a year and received his VA benefits. Now, tell me that isn't bullcrap? I mean ok, I get there is a difference between AD/RC but let's get real.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2018 12:36 PM

2018-01-18T12:36:25-05:00

SPC David Hannaman the big difference there is veteran vs. combat veteran.

Response by SPC David Willis made Feb 22 at 2018 2:46 PM

2018-02-22T14:46:18-05:00

A veteran yes, a veteran of combat not so much.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 22 at 2018 3:44 PM

2018-02-22T15:44:33-05:00

A veteran is one who has served, a combat veteran is one who has served in combat.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Feb 22 at 2018 3:53 PM

2018-02-22T15:53:40-05:00

I guess you don't have to WANT to be in Combat to be there. When it comes it usually means someone thought you were a soft target. If you weren't in the 101st you don't get the patch regardless. You get the patch worn by your unit. I was in a non divisional "running spare" artillery unit. We changed patches six times not including the Divisions and Brigades we were attached to.

Response by SPC Daniel Rankin made Feb 22 at 2018 4:28 PM

2018-02-22T16:28:46-05:00

You were in the sand and you fixed the flying machines. You did your part. You are a combat Vet.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Feb 23 at 2018 8:28 PM

2018-02-23T20:28:32-05:00

Time was served and sacrifices made. The title was earned whether you want to acknowledge or not.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Feb 24 at 2018 5:45 PM

2018-02-24T17:45:13-05:00

I will let all of you answer this while reading this response:
How many of us think this guy is a veteran and a Hero?

http://www.slate.com/blogs/quora/2013/11/20/u_s_in_world_war_ii_how_the_navy_broke_japanese_codes_before_midway.html

u_s_in_world_war_ii_how_the_navy_broke_japanese_codes_before_midway.html

Response by Sgt William Harmon made Feb 24 at 2018 7:34 PM

2018-02-24T19:34:42-05:00

I have a problem someone calling themselves a 1st Lt USAF veteran when they only served from December 20, 1889 to January 31,1990. Because no way can someone be a 1st Lt in 41 days and never went to the academy or is listed in the USAF register as serving.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2018 8:09 PM

2018-02-25T20:09:34-05:00

Yes I do. Look just because you didn’t go to Combat doesn’t mean you’re a lesser of two evils. By the way the regulations changed to 24 months not 6 months after Sept. 12, 1980. This goes for any Officer too.

Response by CPL Luis Whetstine made Feb 26 at 2018 12:14 AM

2018-02-26T00:14:09-05:00

I say yes, but let’s take it a little further. I’m concidered a combat veteran bacuase of Desert Storm, but by your logic, am I truly a combat veteran...while yes I was deployed to Desert Storm and did wear a unit patch on my right shoulder, but at no time during my time there did I ever have to raise my weapon nor was a bullet ever shot in my direction. While yes the possibility was there, the only threat that I actually had to worry about was from the mosquitos and the camel spiders. However, ofically, all who have served are considered veterans.

Response by Sgt Scott McCleland made Apr 5 at 2018 10:16 AM

2018-04-05T10:16:30-04:00

Remember some of our brothers and sisters that never went over seas still had important roles, I for one worked with The Hurricane Hunters before they went to the Reserves..also some supported training units, hospital personel, etc.
I was in Operation Desert Shield...but am listed as Desert Storm...while in England our base was involved in Operation El Dorado Canyon..while at Kessler AFB supported Just Cause, Deny Flight, Southern Watch, just to name a few...do I deserve a combat badge? Sadly no...those who have wear it with pride and I salute you...but I too am a Veteran of not only these operation but a Cold War Vet as well. That is my take on this.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 5 at 2018 11:06 AM

2018-04-05T11:06:09-04:00

Look, I consider anyone wore swore the oath and served their time to be a veteran. Webster says a former service person. Combat is defining and we have special badges, recognition for that, but I didn't see combat till the last half of my career. Are we to say that the 1,00's of folks in the Cold War, didn't serve?, that they don't deserve the title Veteran? You repaired copter engines during GF1, without your work- how many birds would not have been up to support the troops? How much longer would have it gone on, how many more would have died because of lack of bird support? As a grunt, I loved to have some AH-64 on station, when Iraqi tanks were around. No war can be waged unless everyone does their part- we have to have, food, ammo, fuel, medics, mail, etc. or we can't move forward. Thanks for your service Veteran!

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Apr 5 at 2018 2:41 PM

2018-04-05T14:41:32-04:00

I see it now, someone notices there are too many veterans. Suddenly their not special anymore so they thrown in their own standards. One needs to be deployed. Well there are still too many. They raise the unofficial standards to a combat zone. Again, there are too many. So again they raise the unofficial standards to "combat veteran" meaning they need to be shot at and shoot back. Then you have some that will say, "well you're not infantry-ranger-airborne-air assault-specops-high speed-low drag-super janitor" you're not a vet sort of losers. You're a vet. Deal with it.

Response by SGT William Ek made Apr 5 at 2018 2:56 PM

2018-04-05T14:56:05-04:00

If you were in Vietnam you were considered in Theater & Vietnam Veteran.

Response by SGT Gary Ogden made Apr 5 at 2018 5:21 PM

2018-04-05T17:21:24-04:00

As a combat veteran I truly believe that without all those non combat veterans working their backsidesoff to make sure I stayed alive I would not be here today

Response by SGT Gary Ogden made Apr 5 at 2018 5:25 PM

2018-04-05T17:25:16-04:00

It angers me when anyone believes that the service and sacrifice of others, whether in or out of combat, is diminished in any way due to the orders they received and carried out. IF YOU SERVED YOU ARE S VETERAN AND YOIR SERVICE IS NO LESS THAN MY OWN!!!!!!

Response by SFC Carlos Cruz made Apr 5 at 2018 9:04 PM

2018-04-05T21:04:53-04:00

I will try to make this clear as I hope you & other have a clear understanding.
A veteran is a individual who served the armed forces.
This also confused many a combat veteran is someone who Served down range therefore members who has a privilege to Served during combat & didn’t deploy doesn’t make this person combat veteran but a veteran who just Served the military.
vet·er·ans
noun
plural noun: veterans
a person who has had long experience in a particular field.
synonyms: old hand, past master, doyen, vet; informalold-timer, old stager, old warhorse
"a veteran of 16 political campaigns"
long-serving, seasoned, old, hardened;
adept, expert, well trained, practiced, experienced, senior;
informalbattle-scarred
"a veteran diplomat"
a person who has served in the military.
"a veteran of two world wars"
We must understand their where many Soldiers who Served & completed 18, 19 & 20 yrs during combat & never when down range yet they are veteran of military. Now tou know the two different between combat veteran & a veteran.

Response by SFC Robert Adams made Apr 6 at 2018 11:46 AM

2018-04-06T11:46:21-04:00

If you served honorably, you are a veteran. Many served that never saw combat. Does that make their service less? No!

Response by PO2 Charles Gaskill made Apr 6 at 2018 6:12 PM

2018-04-06T18:12:55-04:00

I served for 10 years, on aircraft carriers. Was in Storm and Shield, according to that eval, I have 43 "combat" days on record. Most would say I'm a combat vet, I'm not convinced because "we" were nevery shot at and "I" never shot at the enemy. But let's clarify the question/answer.
Your a vet if you served for 6 months and were honorably discharged.
Your a "combat vet" if you shot, or were shot at the enemy. But that's just my opinion.

Response by SSgt Sam Morgan made Apr 6 at 2018 6:42 PM

2018-04-06T18:42:24-04:00

I served with a Marine who is a Purple Heart recipient by being wounded while sleeping in a rear area tent in Vietnam.
Anyone who serves in a combat area like Vietnam is a veteran even though they never walked in the bush. Charlie was very good at bringing combat to any area and we had to be aware of this until we were out of the country.

Response by SGT Jim Knaeble made Apr 7 at 2018 12:50 AM

2018-04-07T00:50:28-04:00

I served 8 years and that included Desert Shield/Storm. I did my job as an infantryman but it does not compare to those who endured Vietnam or the action after I left the service. I was awarded the CIB but have trouble believing it stands up to others. I identify more with the EIB I earned through hard work. I am a proud veteran, and combat veteran.

Please also remember that wearing the combat patch means you are forever part of that team. Doing your job, whatever it was, served a function that allowed your unit to succeed.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2018 1:58 AM

2018-04-07T01:58:17-04:00

There is a difference in being a combat veteran and a veteran. I have Sergents who do not have combat deployments but honestly, there probably better than the ones I had when I was down range. The only person that worries about these things are the people who have nothing better to do. I tell my team leaders all the time, every time I went to Iraq it was different. So I have some experience in THAT part of a war. Don't hold yourself as you just served 4 years and did nothing. Your contribution means something, you trained someone. Someone is better off knowing you and you had the backbone to enlist.

Response by SSG Ssg Carlos made Apr 7 at 2018 3:13 PM

2018-04-07T15:13:36-04:00

There are veterans and combat veterans anyone that serves in theater is a veteran and anyone that serves in combat and actually pulls the trigger is A Combat Veteran . Can't claim combat veteran if you never been in combat ..there just veterans

Response by SGT Steven Wright made Apr 8 at 2018 9:03 PM

2018-04-08T21:03:57-04:00

I am a Combat Veteran. It should be reserved for only Combat Veterans. Not some trainees who have less TIS than my boots AND slick sleeved. We earned our Veteran status. Not those who never even deployed. But that's just my opinion... I'm just a Combat Veteran. What do I know

Response by Sgt George Kovach made Apr 9 at 2018 8:26 AM

2018-04-09T08:26:45-04:00

If you served during time of conflict or otherwise does not matter. You served where so many would not. This alone qualifies you as a veteran. As some feel they didnt earn their right because they were not grunts, it takes a minimum of 7 individuals to support one grunt in the Corps while deployed. Your all the same part of that unit, otherwise he or she would have been sitting at joke woth absolutely no way to get in the fight. As the saying goes all Marines are rifleman first, im sure the other branches carry the same thought process. So yes in answer to tye question if youve served your a veteran.

P.S. when I took the oath to protect the constitution from all enemies foreign and domestic it did not come with the addendum of until your discharged or for the length of my term of service. I would ruck up today if needed. Semper Fi!

Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 10 at 2018 8:45 PM

2018-04-10T20:45:58-04:00

I thought that's where the distinction of "combat veteran" came into play?

Response by SrA Fred Packard made Apr 11 at 2018 12:30 AM

2018-04-11T00:30:49-04:00

My father actually put boys on ground although his Naval record did not show it, as his assignment was ship duty. This was confirmed by letter from his CO as he got his disability due to agent orange.
Peer his CO's letter, although he was assigned ship duty, he carried top secret documents from the ship to shore of several occasions, which were never made part of his record.
Our family was never aware of this until his Alzheimer's got so bad that he was not aware that he was telling us top secret information...

Response by SrA Fred Packard made Apr 11 at 2018 12:40 AM

2018-04-11T00:40:19-04:00

I've served twice.... First during the cold war, USAF, as an Air Cargo Specialist shopping supplies to those in need worldwide. If it could hold a pallet, I've loaded it (now except the C17, it wasn't operational yet!).
Then during the GWOT in the National Guard as a UH60 Repairer. I spent 2005 in Kosovo on a peacekeeping mission, which was designated a combat zone, although I never saw "combat". It is annotated on my DD214, and on my disability records.

Response by Dee Francis made Apr 14 at 2018 3:23 PM

2018-04-14T15:23:24-04:00

Read the history of how the PURPLE HEART came to be why President George Washington felt it was needed in the first place.

Response by SGT Thom Knott made Apr 16 at 2018 12:53 PM

2018-04-16T12:53:31-04:00

Soldiers die in training, they give their lives to the military with the understanding that their role is to fight when called upon. I have personally lost brothers in the motor pool and on the ground performing their mission. They are all veteran's, some die in battle some die preparing for battle but all are willing. Combat veterans can serve on a flight deck never to face an enemy, some provide supplies to support the fight, some belly crawl in the rocks taking fire, some provide intelligence from operations. Take any of these mission critical soldiers out of the fight and the mission fails. Respect is due for all soldiers covering the fight, because when you call for air support to clean out the threat you had better pray that everyone else does their job. Their should always be a special love and understanding for the forward combat troops that take fire, but all are veterans and deserve equal love and respect.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2018 9:34 PM

2018-06-22T21:34:50-04:00

Eisenhower was never in combat. Is he considered a veteran?

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jun 23 at 2018 6:34 AM

2018-06-23T06:34:32-04:00

No issued with me, I signed the line, raised my right hand, even the state I live see's me as a veteran(24 yrs in MIARNG).

Response by SGT Rick Colburn made Jun 23 at 2018 12:25 PM

2018-06-23T12:25:57-04:00

I served 13 years in the ARMY National Guard Military Police and I AM A VETERAN AND NO ONE WILL CONVINCE ME DIFFERENT SO WHAT IF I NEVER SAW COMBAT OR HAVE A PURPLE HEART I STILL SERVED MY COMMUNITY,STATE, AND NATION AND IF CALLED UPON WHICH I WAS THEN TOLD TO STAND DOWN WITHIN A WEEK OF SHIPPING OUT TO GRENADA I WOULD HAVE PROUDLY AND FAITHFULLY GONE AND SERVED MY COUNTRY IN BATTLE HOW DARE YOU INSINUATE I AM ANY LESS OF A VETERAN OR NOT A VETERAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2018 1:22 PM

2018-06-23T13:22:09-04:00

Would it satisfy ABSOLUTLEY EVERYONE if there were two categories of service people when referring to them, veteran or combat veteran? Yes, no? I think that is done anyway in a very casual manner when vets get together and commiserate on their service years.

Response by SPC John Chorkawciw made Jul 18 at 2018 12:33 PM

2018-07-18T12:33:09-04:00

As others have stated, you don't always have a choice as to duty stations. You go where they send you. When I finished up at armor school at Ft.Knox in 71 we were told they were no longer sending tankers to Nam so we were sent elsewhere and I wound up in Germany. even thou I had so called jungle training at Ft. Lewis. Luck of the draw.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Aug 14 at 2018 9:07 AM

2018-08-14T09:07:45-04:00

I got my own thoughts about that but reg says 180 days of active service and your veterans even chapter cases HOW SAD and they end getting really nice jobs because they are considered veterans. It strange how the world works in amazing ways. They should really categorized the type of veteran you to many dirt bag veterans out there who never did anything for or country but served 180 days and we call them veterans and I bet they even got some kind of disability out of it.

Response by SGT David Lacer made Oct 7 at 2018 1:52 AM

2018-10-07T01:52:45-04:00

That's question just fires me up and makes my blood boil. I am 62 and proudly served from 18 June 79 till 14 Sept 84. For years I have refused to use my benefits because I felt that combat vets deserved it more than myself. I quit going to veteran organizations because i didn't feel worthy surrounded by combat vets. But you know what I was there I was ready and able to put my life on the line like so many others have. By the grace of God there wasn't a war going on and I never got the call to go. But I was just as proud of the units I served in as a combat veteran. We volunteered we trained we prepared we we're ready so I tell you the answer to your question is affirmative we are vets and we deserve that right to be called vets.

Response by SSgt Kerry Dillon made Oct 7 at 2018 2:30 PM

2018-10-07T14:30:37-04:00

I think that you are a veteran when you serve. We all have made sacrifices to keep our country safe. As for stickers license and ect.. you should be proud of your service and show it. As for being Vietnam Vet I know its a big controversy with my friends I think to claim being a Vietnam Vet, Desert Storm Vet or anyother conflict you can only claim it only if you were in country. I know now I have seen Vietnam era covers being worn now. But you dont see WWll or Korean era covers I believe that if you werent in actual country you should wear a regular Veteran cover. My friends who were in Vietnam feel that era.. covers makes light of their service and gives ppl the wrong impression. So bottom line is if you actually served in country then you are a Veteran of that conflict if you didnt then your just a Veteran. SEMPER FI

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Oct 11 at 2018 7:03 AM

2018-10-11T07:03:08-04:00

This is a old post but I find a need to respond. So I will answer the question with a question. If you take the spark plugs out of your car does it work as the fine machine that originally bought? What does the regulations say?

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Oct 11 at 2018 1:13 PM

2018-10-11T13:13:00-04:00

A Vietnam Veteran is a person that served in Vietnam, a Vietnam era Veteran was a person who was in the Armed Forces during that war and never served in the combat zone area at all. Veteran plates are fine but NOT Vietnam Veteran license plates unless You were physically in the actual war zone. I was in Vietnam 1968-69, I have Vietnam Veteran tabs that were issued for My Veterans plate. I was in during the Persian Gulf War but never in or even near the combat zone, I'm NOT at Veteran of that war and I feel I have no right to display a tab indicating I was.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2018 5:33 PM

2018-10-11T17:33:07-04:00

Yes. Most people who have been sent to combat did not send themselves, but they did either volunteer for service or answer the call when their country called on them to serve. So, serving honorably is earning the status of veteran. I do think that we should also hold the status of Combat Veteran as something above and beyond the status of Veteran - so, yes, a person who has not been to combat is a veteran, but they are not a combat veteran.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2018 12:12 AM

2018-10-27T00:12:38-04:00

I feel if you were in the service for any reason and is not your fault for leaving and you passed all your testes and finished basic training should have the right to receive a Honorable with good conduct and should be consider a Veteran.

Response by SGT Debra Jahnel made Jul 25 at 2019 1:08 AM

2019-07-25T01:08:28-04:00

During my time in service (the 80s), women were not allowed in combat, so that distinction was not even a consideration (plus the only combat was Grenada/Lebanon). At the time of Grenada & Beirut bombings, I was a member of the 101st, working live missions (but not in either theatre of operations.) During the Persian Gulf Blockade, I was working a live mission; our team was awarded a Joint Chiefs Commendation for our support effort; I was even put forward by the Navy for a temporary assignment aboard a ship in the Persian Gulf. (The Army said, "no female in a possible combat zone.") Am I a Veteran? Hell, yes. Am I proud of my service? Hell, yes. My husband (Retired Air Force) was a Viet Namese Linguist sent to Thailand only weeks before Saigon fell. Neither of us can comment on his other assignments because of our clearances, but does that affect his eligibility or right to be a combat veteran? Of course not. We all had our role in whatever our service's activities were. And EVERY role was honorable.

Response by PO3 Lynn Spalding made Feb 19 at 2020 8:14 PM

2020-02-19T20:14:01-05:00

I was a dumb ass and miss read the question and voted wrong. Hell yeah you're a Veteran as long as you signed that paper, raised your hand and served honorably. It doesn't matter where you were or what you did.