How do I convert an older traditional guardsman to be recognized as a veteran?

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 14:04:19 -0500

My coworkers father is in his 80's, unable to take care of himself. The son, 60's, tells me he served the national guard of PA for 20+ years and received an NGB form instead of a DD214. He does not qualify or register as a veteran because of this. What steps would i take to help him fix this issue? I would like to see if they can find some benefits for him and help his current situation as financial and property are now at risk. Thank you in advance!

Update: The soldier served 34 years, M-day guard, no deployments, no injuries on duty. Would he still be considered a veteran and receive official veteran status? My coworker was not clear on all details the first time I asked him, I apologize everyone.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Mar 5 at 2020 2:14 PM

MSG Danny Mathers — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 14:14:21 -0500

Go online and request a DD214. I believe the form you will fill out is an SF180. Just Google DD214 and find the link.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Mar 5 at 2020 2:18 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 14:18:45 -0500

Contact the DAV.

Response by SPC Terence Q Burns made Mar 5 at 2020 2:35 PM

SPC Terence Q Burns — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 14:35:54 -0500

I helped a National Guardsmen here in CT with the same thing. At the VA, you have the benefits office. First thing to do is get your father registered at your local VAMC! Second, find the benefits office and bring all documentation with you. From that point on, they will provide him with a primary care doctor and everything else will fall into place. NG's and AR's are now allowed VA care! Keep me posted please!

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Mar 7 at 2020 1:19 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sat, 07 Mar 2020 01:19:58 -0500

One thing many are not aware of is on 27 Dec 2016 Congress passed a law that gave Veteran status to Guard and Reserve people that had served 20 years or more and had reached age 60 and were receiving Retired pay and benefits to include Tricare (Tricare for Life at age 65) for those that had NOT served at least 180 days of active Federal Military service for which a DD Form 214 would have been issued. This 2016 act however did NOT add any more entitlements other than officially being designated as Veterans.