How much service time qualifies you as a Veteran?

ENS Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Jan 2017 23:41:27 -0500

Outside of those who get injured and medically separated, is there a minimum timeframe service members should service to be considered a Veteran? Completion of bootcamp? Completion of first tour? First enlistment? 180 days?

Are there situations that should disqualify someone as a Veteran? Dishonorable Discharge? Requesting to separate prior to the end of first enlistment or before earning an MOS or Rating?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 15 at 2017 11:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Jan 2017 23:50:06 -0500

http://www.americanwarlibrary.com/whatvet.htm

What Is A Veteran?

A veteran is defined by federal law, moral code and military service as "Any, Any, Any"... A military veteran is Any person who served for Any length of time in Any military service branch. [See #1 and #2, below]

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2017 12:33 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 00:33:35 -0500

I've been wrestling with that. At what point do I put myself in that category? What if I never deploy? How much time? Etc etc.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2017 12:51 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 00:51:06 -0500

This is going to be based on whether you are Active Duty or Reserves/Guard. If you are Active Duty, then you are considered a Veteran the minute your 3 or 4 yr contract is done and you ETS. If you are Reserve/Guard....it's a little different now. Initially, for Guard/Reserves, you had to deploy and/or be on orders for more than 180 days (and not for training). Now, there is a new addition. If the Reservist or Guard member never deploys ends up serving for 20 good years (which is a whole different conversation) and retiring, then they are legally entitled to the Veteran Status.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jan 16 at 2017 7:24 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 07:24:00 -0500

I qualified after serving more than 20 with the Guard. Liked it so well hung in for four more years.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Jan 16 at 2017 1:36 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 13:36:50 -0500

Doesn't everyone's DD 214 state the character of service? Anything honorable, medical, or retired should rate veteran status. All others do not. Am I missing something?

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jan 16 at 2017 1:54 PM

SN Greg Wright — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 13:54:52 -0500

We can argue about this all day long, but there is a legal definition:

"Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as “a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.”

http://va.org/what-is-a-veteran-the-legal-definition/

What is a Veteran? The Legal Definition - VA.ORG

What is a Veteran? Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jan 17 at 2017 1:12 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 01:12:30 -0500

Same answer as What is enough?

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Jan 17 at 2017 4:51 AM

SrA Matthew Knight — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 04:51:16 -0500

My opinion (key word here) is that once you have passed the training phase and made it to your job and started doing your job then you have hit veteran status. Those separated before completion of basic or technical training may get the title in certain cases but I hate to say it, it's hard to see them as veterans. It's not my place to grant them the title but the last thing I want to hear is someone who didn't even make it out of training trying to pull the veteran card for anything. Again, this was my opinion.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Jan 17 at 2017 12:03 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 12:03:55 -0500

Typically I'd say as soon as you made it to the Fleet, but I know some MOS schools are a couple months while others are upwards of a year. So instead, I'll say the completion of Bootcamp. Until you complete bootcamp, you don't rate a rank. You are recruit in the most polite terms and whatever your DI felt like calling you in the not so polite terms. But you don't rate a rank at that point.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2017 1:01 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 13:01:02 -0500

6 months/180 days is the lowest threshold for "Veteran" status. There is no other requirement. No secret code word or secret handshake, etc. 180 days.

Response by SSgt Robert Mixey made Jan 18 at 2017 6:08 AM

SSgt Robert Mixey — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 06:08:32 -0500

I retired at 15 years service, because I was so awesome. Actually, bases were being closed and personnel downsizing was in effect ('94)

Response by PFC Jeramy Dobkins made Feb 6 at 2017 7:35 PM

PFC Jeramy Dobkins — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 19:35:02 -0500

I think this is probably the dumbest question out there that keeps resurfacing in our community. If you signed up completed training in any branch whether it be reserve/guard or active we are all on the same freaking team and all should be a damn veteran. Now that being said claim what you have earned dont be pulling some bull shit stolen valor and claiming your a purple heart recepient if your not. If your a cook in the naval reserve unit then dont be telling people your a SEAL. Simple you joined the military regardless of branch and made that commitment your a damn veteran when your discharged correctly. Simple as that. If we keep doing this shit in our communities than all we are doing is discouraging people from seeking the guard or reserve. OR worse beating down on someone who got back to their unit after training and came down with cancer and got booted on a medical. They still signed up and made rank they still deserve the respect. One team One fight. Rant over

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Feb 6 at 2017 8:24 PM

SSgt Michael Cox — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 20:24:38 -0500

It depends on the agency. Each one has different requirements per laws.
As a Veteran Outreach Navigator for the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs I have a lot of leeway. For my position I can help anyone connect with resources who has been honorably or dishonorably discharged from the armed services because I don't have a budget I don't have to follow the strict guidelines of the laws.

Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA)
RCW 41.04.007
"Veteran" defined for certain purposes.
"Veteran" includes every person, who at the time he or she seeks the benefits of RCW 46.18.212, 46.18.235, 72.36.030, 41.04.010, 73.04.090, or 43.180.250 has received an honorable discharge or received a discharge for medical reasons with an honorable record, where applicable, and who has served in at least one of the following capacities:
(1) As a member in any branch of the armed forces of the United States, including the national guard and armed forces reserves, and has fulfilled his or her initial military service obligation;
(2) As a member of the women's air forces service pilots;
(3) As a member of the armed forces reserves, national guard, or coast guard, and has been called into federal service by a presidential select reserve call up for at least one hundred eighty cumulative days;
(4) As a civil service crewmember with service aboard a U.S. army transport service or U.S. naval transportation service vessel in oceangoing service from December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946;
(5) As a member of the Philippine armed forces/scouts during the period of armed conflict from December 7, 1941, through August 15, 1945; or
(6) A United States documented merchant mariner with service aboard an oceangoing vessel operated by the department of defense, or its agents, from both June 25, 1950, through July 27, 1953, in Korean territorial waters and from August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975, in Vietnam territorial waters, and who received a military commendation.

Federal VA
Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as “a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.” This definition explains that any individual that completed a service for any branch of armed forces classifies as a veteran as long as they were not dishonorably discharged. However, with regard to applicable benefits, other considerations are important and will be covered in later sections.

Washington State, Spokane County
(i)
A person who served in the active military, naval, or air
31
service; a member of the women's air forces service pilots during
32
World War II; a United States documented merchant mariner with
33
service aboard an oceangoing vessel operated by the war shipping
34
administration; the office of defense transportation, or their
35
agents, from December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946; or a civil
36
service crewmember with service aboard a United States army transport
37
service or United States naval transportation service vessel in
38
oceangoing service from December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946
39
who meets one of the following criteria:
40
p. 2
ESHB 1213.PL
(A)
Served on active duty for at least one hundred eighty days
1
and who was released with an honorable discharge;
2
(B)
Received an honorable or general under honorable
3
characterization of service with a medical reason for separation for
4
a condition listed as non-existed prior to service, regardless of
5
number of days served; or
6
(C)
Received an honorable discharge and has received a rating for
7
a service connected disability from the United States department of
8
veterans affairs regardless of number of days served;
9
(ii)
A current member honorably serving in the armed forces
10
reserve or national guard who has been activated by presidential call
11
up for purposes other than training;
12
(iii)
A former member of the armed forces reserve or national
13
guard who has fulfilled his or her initial military service
14
obligation and was released with an honorable discharge;
15
(iv)
A former member of the armed forces reserve or national
16
guard who was released before their term ended and was released with
17
an honorable discharge.
18
(b)
At the discretion of the county legislative authority and in
19
consultation with the veterans' advisory board, counties may expand
20
eligibility for the veterans assistance fund as the county determines
21
necessary, which may include serving veterans with additional
22
discharge characterizations

As you can see it changes depending on what department you are seeking help. The general consistence though is that a Veteran is anyone who served at least one day of service after completion of advanced training (A school, or Tech school).

Sorry for the long post was smaller when I copied the laws from the websites.

Response by PO2 Robert Peterson made Feb 6 at 2017 8:43 PM

PO2 Robert Peterson — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 20:43:31 -0500

During boot camp or basic training you are referred to as "recruit" if you don't finish boot/basic then you never made it out of the "recruit" phase. I do not consider these veterans, I have seen several getting care at the VA and I cannot engage them as such.

Response by SSG Brian Kresge made Feb 7 at 2017 9:25 AM

SSG Brian Kresge — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 09:25:50 -0500

This is one of those language and meaning gray areas where a status conferred can really dilute the meaning for those that substantively meet the definition of veteran.

The word "veteran" has become the Schroedinger's Cat for prior military: all possibilities exist simultaneously.

I was seeing this in our work in Veterans Courts. The District Attorney, the judiciary, the bar association would pat themselves on the back for putting a 1980s or other "era" veteran in the program for a first time DUI. No overseas time, no injuries, nothing service connected at all, just an honorable discharge. The guy that really needed it--the four-time infantry veteran of OIF and OEF who is self-medicating his way through PTSD and whatever earned him his Purple Heart, on his third or fourth DUI--gets shut out.

It's no fault of the peacetime veteran, but frankly, the last 15 years have generated a lot of actual overseas veterans, enough that to me, the "blank check" should possibly only be good for that free Veterans Day meal at Applebees. If you didn't serve in a hazardous duty capacity, if you didn't acquire a service-related disability, or your 4-year peacetime service didn't indelibly mark the rest of your life, don't stand in front of the veteran for whom it did.

And I think that's what this rush to expand the term "veteran" has done. It's what allows someone who served "during Korea" to be on the same footing as someone who served "in the shit in Korea." And perhaps why we have to see the prevalence of the term "combat veteran," but with so many citizens completely disconnected from the nature of the force, it's often a distinction that is lost on them.

Response by SFC Rory Kempf made Feb 7 at 2017 12:10 PM

SFC Rory Kempf — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 12:10:55 -0500

To me anyone who signed up. 27 yrs myself.

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Feb 7 at 2017 12:48 PM

PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 12:48:34 -0500

Actually I am going to blow you all out of the water with a Salvo of 16" shells from the Veterans Administration VSO book that says if you have served one day Honorably and were discharged with anything other than a dishonorable discharge, you are considered a Veteran in the eyes of the Veterans Administration and may be eligible for benefits. Now Service Organizations like the Legion VFW, AMVETS, and the such all have different qualifying definitions but the VA has been that way for Decades. The Federal Government changes their definition as much as some people change their skivvies.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2017 1:54 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 13:54:01 -0500

I am not an expert on all regulations, but understand that a DD 214 with at least a general under honorable, qualifies one as a veteran. This means the individual served at least 30 days on active duty but probably qualifies for nothing more than a head stone when they die. I would imagine such a person would not be accepted in most Veteran groups, but that is not to such a person is bad either. Yes, many people do not adapt well to military life, but after separation, often grow up to me leaders in their communities. I see nothing wrong with somebody with a general under honorable joining a veteran group if honest about their service and allowed by the group. I believe AMVETS is the most open Veterans group. Sometimes, people with general under honorable are given another chance to serve in the military and earn an honorable discharge.

Response by SPC Justin Foster made Feb 7 at 2017 4:52 PM

SPC Justin Foster — Tue, 07 Feb 2017 16:52:51 -0500

I have been out for a few years, but I know that in 2008 when I deployed, after 90 days in theater, I was allowed to wear a combat patch and became eligible for certain VA benefits that I was not previously eligible for, even after completing active duty training and being in active drill status in the NG, such as the VA home loan. So, while anyone who served and was not discharged dishonorably is technically considered a veteran, there are veterans and combat veterans, and the two are distinct, at least in my mind. This is for NG/reserve units though. Active duty may differ.

Response by SMSgt Timothy Cathers made Feb 9 at 2017 5:01 PM

SMSgt Timothy Cathers — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 17:01:59 -0500

1 day

Response by AN Karl Smith made Jun 7 at 2017 6:15 PM

AN Karl Smith — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 18:15:46 -0400

Minimum of 180 days and a discharge above Dishonorable

Response by PO2 Rob Kneaul made Jun 8 at 2017 8:43 AM

PO2 Rob Kneaul — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 08:43:29 -0400

2 year tour unless disabled beforehand

Response by SSgt Dave Hardin made Jun 8 at 2017 9:51 AM

SSgt Dave Hardin — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 09:51:43 -0400

Any second over 180 days. Unless you dishonor your service, then it was all for not.

Response by SGT Mark Lahman made Jun 8 at 2017 11:54 AM

SGT Mark Lahman — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:54:30 -0400

What about someone that did 3 tours in iraq then gets dishonorable discharge after going to jail for beating the shit out of a guy who was slappin cheeks with his wife while on tour.. is he a veteran? Under the above definition.. he wouldnt be.. which in my opinion is ridiculous

Response by SSG Chris Allsopp made Jun 8 at 2017 12:27 PM

SSG Chris Allsopp — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 12:27:37 -0400

Dishonorable discharge for sure is a diqualifying factor. Regardless of 20 years, or 10 days... You managed to screw it all up, it's done son. You have one overarching job while you are in the service, be honorable. Can't be honorable, can't be discharged honourably.... Shame and regret. Leadership always encouraged pick the harder right.... That's absolutely true.

Response by PO1 Edward Lehmann made Jun 8 at 2017 12:42 PM

PO1 Edward Lehmann — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 12:42:17 -0400

180 days

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jun 8 at 2017 12:50 PM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 12:50:20 -0400

Just my two cents It's amazing how many people have the meaning of truly what a Veteran is. My Hats off to you all. Really is because I'm not even going go there because if you heard my definition of true veteran you would get mad and some veterans who think they should be called veterans would be on the hunt for me. But let's keep real.

Response by PO1 Bill Adams made Jun 8 at 2017 2:40 PM

PO1 Bill Adams — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 14:40:16 -0400

There are rules and laws that determine Veteran status.
But in my eyes, if you finished boot camp, then were discharged through no fault of your own, you are a Veteran.

You signed that blank check, qualified to wear the uniform, you are a vet.

Response by CPL Larry Grubb made Jun 8 at 2017 4:07 PM

CPL Larry Grubb — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 16:07:00 -0400

If you obtained an MOS then your a vet.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2017 4:22 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 16:22:28 -0400

If you serve in any branch of the military, you are a veteran. Unless you were in the Coast Guard lol

Response by SPC Jarin Bradley made Jun 8 at 2017 4:37 PM

SPC Jarin Bradley — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 16:37:05 -0400

If I had to call it first day in the Fleet...

Response by SGT Vernon Cole made Jun 8 at 2017 4:53 PM

SGT Vernon Cole — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 16:53:05 -0400

I believe the regulations say 90 days. If so that little time is very generous.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2017 5:36 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 17:36:02 -0400

You and those around You know the answer. We all see and talk to those who want to be something they are not. Not everybody can do a full enlistment let alone 20 plus years for retirement. If You raised Your hand and took the oath and actually did boot and then made it to Your 1st assignment and served more than 6 months on active duty, or more than a year in the reserve components and got out because of something beyond Your control then I consider You a vet. But when it really comes down to it, The only one who can answer that question is Yourself, the rest of us barracks lawyers can argue all day along about it and still be wrong.

Response by SPC Brian Ames made Jun 8 at 2017 6:16 PM

SPC Brian Ames — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:16:51 -0400

However long it takes you to get your DD-214...I served in two branches of the Military so I have two of them.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Jun 8 at 2017 6:26 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:26:25 -0400

Okay. After giving this some thought, and not using any regulations as a guideline I consider a veteran to be someone who:
1. Finished basic training and MOS school.
2. Actively participated in carrying out the units mission.
3. Served their entire enlistment as promised or were discharged due to an injury severe enough to warrant separation.
I think "served" is the pivotal word. If someone never completes their initial training and never actually serves their country in the role they were assigned they should not be considered a veteran. If they get hurt trying they should be entitled to benefits as prescribed, but they are not a veteran.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2017 6:27 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:27:15 -0400

Your time in service does not include time spent in bct until you reach 24 total months. At 24 months of active duty, you qualify for the VA loan, VA health care, 80% of the 9/11 gi bill.

Response by PO3 Christopher Bilandzija made Jun 8 at 2017 6:33 PM

PO3 Christopher Bilandzija — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:33:06 -0400

I feel that anyone who was willing to sign there name on a line willing to sacrifice there life for there country deserves the title of Veteran. I try not to get caught up in the politics or drama with goes along with that title, but I do feel that it is an important topic that should be discussed.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2017 6:52 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:52:29 -0400

Semantics. Minding your own life is usually best.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2017 6:54 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:54:25 -0400

What about those that get injured at boot camp?

Response by A1C Kyle Meyer made Jun 8 at 2017 6:58 PM

A1C Kyle Meyer — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:58:10 -0400

3 yrs TOS and discharge that is not BCD or Dishonorable

Response by A1C Kyle Meyer made Jun 8 at 2017 6:59 PM

A1C Kyle Meyer — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 18:59:11 -0400

I had about 39months TOS and a General Under honorable and I still got my veteran status and veteran benefits

Response by LCpl Allen Luze made Jun 8 at 2017 7:25 PM

LCpl Allen Luze — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 19:25:21 -0400

I served 3 years active duty Marines from January 1978 - January 1981, honorably discharged. I'm treated as veteran until it comes to any type of benefits. Since my entire tour of service was stateside and there were no official military actions during that time frame, I am disqualified from joining the VFW or the American Legion (which I understand since I had never been outside of the US prior to my discharge). I have no documented service related injuries therefore I don't even qualify for VA care (which I would prefer to reserve for those that really do need it anyway).
Years ago, a few years after my discharge, I was forced to apply for financial assistance - initially denied because 1). I had not registered for the Selective Service and 2). I did not have a GED. My "case worker" had already denied my request prior to my first appointment. At that appointment I presented my DD214 and explained to her that my age group were NOT required to register and that I did not need a GED when I already had a high school diploma (also provided). Officially, those reasons were still listed on the letter I later received denying benefits.
Many former service members consider me a vet, yet the ones in authority don't seem to.

Response by SPC Jonathan Scott made Jun 8 at 2017 7:37 PM

SPC Jonathan Scott — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 19:37:10 -0400

If you have a dd214 with honorable your veteran. Have had 2 privates one broke his neck out of ait in airborne school do to parachute that was slotted for destruction. Had another private in air assualt school out of ait helecopter landed on him broke his knees back and kneck and lived both medically discharged due military service through no fault of their own are they not veteran? I myself did 4 years one year over seas. I served in 31R and 31f until I myself became sick with chronic pancreatitis due faulty chemical suit and mask while helping folks in a chemical unit move hazardous chemical I. S.korea. while on permernant profile I served and got mos of 92a and 31c for the unit since I could not eat mre as it caused my pancreas to act up my medial discharge came 29 days before ETS but I had 45 days of vacation so my release date is 16 days past ETS. 100% service connected. I consider myself an outstanding veteran was promoted to e1 to e4 in 18 months was e4p at 22 months until I got sick. Spent 6 months in ICU. Last 2 years made e5 6 times but permenant profile no favorable actions. Yet had in my first 22 months 6aam 1 arcom. Aka super soldier fast track to promotions and one bad injury and my planned 20 was done just like the privates I told you about. Sorry not everyone on profile is faking. Sadly many are. I did not under stand why many e6 plus were upset about permenant profile many knew my ordeal so I did not get crap hell most called me corporal because they knew. Sadly it the 5 to 10 faking knee injury back or joint that unprovable is the issue. Kind of like PTSD. No way to prove. Losing 3/4 of your pancreas 100% of your gallbladder and your skin yellow like a lemon cannot be faked nor a letter from Congress apologies for defective chemical suit from factory hard to fake. To bad it took 2 years to process my medical discharge for 100% service connected. I mean manly because every month I had to be rehospitilized for another episode of chronic pancreatitis. So sorry if you have a dd214 with honorable which by the way if you serve at least three years and got your good conduct medal your a veteran. Guess what my dd214 honorable 4 years 16 days served. Only way you know I am medical is not eligible for 4 years reserve.

Response by MSgt Erwin Tarr made Jun 8 at 2017 7:39 PM

MSgt Erwin Tarr — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 19:39:46 -0400

There was a kid in town who washed out of USMC boot camp and still ran around town in a USMC PT T-Shirt. That chapped me raw.

Response by SPC Will Thrapp made Jun 8 at 2017 7:56 PM

SPC Will Thrapp — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 19:56:56 -0400

if you wear a uniform and make that commitment it doesn't matter if you've been to Afghanistan or iraq what matters is you did it while other people didn't do it. Never hope to goto war but always strive to defend your country and if you wear a uniform and serve honorably I respect that to the fullest.

Response by MSG Dale Lee made Jun 8 at 2017 8:46 PM

MSG Dale Lee — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 20:46:12 -0400

A veteran is someone that enlisted or was drafted into service, completed their entry level training, in the branch they elected or were placed in, and fulfilled all requirements to receive their rating/category/mos/for branch. Meeting all requirements for term of service, and receiving a general or above discharge. A medical discharge during anytime precludes the later, through no fault of service member. What makes it rough is for those that serve an extended amount of time honorably and possibly they snap one night and do something costing them their career, and giving a dishonorable, losing their veteran benefits. I've seen it!

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Jun 8 at 2017 8:52 PM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 20:52:54 -0400

I really hate this question. I have a friend of mine who honorably served in the army reserves for six years; be never deployed, didn't earn a bunch of medals, but he did his job and got out. In comparison, I served on active duty for about seven years, deployed twice, earned myself a few shiney things, and was forced to retire. Not to mention I was combat arms and he was a pog, but that is another story. What I'm trying to get at is that he is always saying that he doesn't feel like he deserves the title of veteran and I have to repeatedly tell him to fuck off and get over the stupid shit. He served and did so honorably. As far as I am concerned that is the requirement. Out on a uniform and serve honorably. That's it. Or else you begin to split hairs. Who deserves to be a veteran? The PFC that deploys directly out of basic and is killed in combat a month later, his TIS is like 5 months. Or that E9 that did 25 years but never left CONUS, the TRADOC ninja or what have you. I don't like splitting us up any further than the military already does. If you put on a uniform and served honorably, whether you finished your contract, retired 20 plus, or were let go for medical reasons, you are a veteran.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2017 9:08 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 21:08:59 -0400

I have served 26 years and still serving, Mobilized 6 times and am on a current mobilization. All Guard. I served 6 years as a R&R NCO AGR. Am I veteran? The last I checked to me A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made payable to The United States of America, for an amount of up to and including their life.

Response by PFC Jesse Stinton made Jun 8 at 2017 9:26 PM

PFC Jesse Stinton — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 21:26:36 -0400

180 days legally I was medically discharged after about a year (screwed my shoulders up pretty bad) while I earned my title as a marine I don't refer to myself as a veteran as I never deployed. I guess to me it would be after a deployment to a war zone or after your contract is complete if you're in a unit that doesn't deploy definitely some subjectivity on this though.

Response by Ronald Capps made Jun 8 at 2017 9:32 PM

Ronald Capps — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 21:32:26 -0400

Different meaning for different purposes. Government jobs require a 3 years of service with an honorable discharge or deployment to a Combat Zone.

Response by SGT Tracy Reed made Jun 8 at 2017 10:00 PM

SGT Tracy Reed — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 22:00:34 -0400

I believe it requires a discharge unless you expire during your first enlistment.

Response by PO2 Joseph Reekie made Jun 8 at 2017 10:13 PM

PO2 Joseph Reekie — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 22:13:20 -0400

If you finished boot camp, you are considered a veteran. However veterans benefits are a different matter. My dad did 9yrs in the reserves and is considered a veteran. However, he was not eligible for VA medical benefits. The Navy did provide an honor guard at his funeral and presented the family with a flag.He was not eligible for USAA membership But as far as i know that was the extent of his benefits. I did 50 months active duty and am 10% service connected. I use the VA for my primary dr. and bought my home with a VA loan. We are both veterans but our status is very different.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2017 10:20 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 22:20:00 -0400

I completed a 6 year contracted in the ARNG. I did not deploy, I did 3 days of "Emergency Relief" during a bad ice storm. I do not consider myself a veteran. I did not fight so I do not feel as though I earned that title.

Response by SSgt Christopher Mortell made Jun 8 at 2017 10:29 PM

SSgt Christopher Mortell — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 22:29:01 -0400

General discharge or lower should be a disqualifier.

Response by LCpl Damien Pollard Jr. made Jun 8 at 2017 10:53 PM

LCpl Damien Pollard Jr. — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 22:53:58 -0400

For licenses to display veteran you have to have served a minimum of 2 years and be discharged anything above dishonorable

Response by SSgt Mac McNeil made Jun 9 at 2017 4:23 AM

SSgt Mac McNeil — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 04:23:23 -0400

Some people are unsuited to military life and fail to adapt.. but I think if they or their command determine the unsuitability (not bad conduct) over 36 months then they get a General Discharge under Honorable Conditions and an RE-2 (not eligible).
Still a former service member and entitled to modified VA benefits.

Response by CDR Jerry Burton made Jun 9 at 2017 6:54 AM

CDR Jerry Burton — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 06:54:18 -0400

Completion of your first govt contract is long enough to be considered a veteran.

Response by MSgt Eric Roseberry made Jun 9 at 2017 7:19 AM

MSgt Eric Roseberry — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 07:19:38 -0400

DD214 indicates honorable

Response by SPC James H Butts Iii made Jun 9 at 2017 8:23 AM

SPC James H Butts Iii — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 08:23:40 -0400

Very well said!!!!

Response by Ashley Trulson made Jun 9 at 2017 10:41 AM

Ashley Trulson — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 10:41:50 -0400

I'm really not sure how my account here was created.... And I'm a bit confused as to if I am actually suppose to be here since I'm really a civilian/ dependant . The account lists me as such so I think that's a good sign. I know my opinion has ZERO weight here. But my husband is a veteran served 5 years active 3 years guard one active duty combat deployment one state active duty deployment. going on 9 years total and his opinion is that veteran status is only obtained via deployment in combat. (Least to my understanding) and I do tend to agree. I think saying that you are a veteran really does imply that you deployed in combat among civilians and it is misleading. I have the utmost respect for anyone who served even if they have never seen combat. And would never want to remove any respect they have earned. But I think at some point some respect is taken from those who deployed in combat when anyone who served can say their a veteran. Like a chick I know who has intentionally gotten pregnant three times to avoid deployment and gets veteran disability benefits from "ptsd" when she has never even been on state active duty. But maybe she's just my bad egg.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 12:12 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 12:12:58 -0400

Sure I'll bite.
The biggest situation I've witnessed that falls into this topic is trainees who are discharged for whatever reason. Leaving out dishonorables, of course. So you have a basic trainee who couldn't hack it, or an ait washout - what do they get to claim? Personally, I feel like they should claim exactly that. They 'served.' Referring to themselves as a veteran really doesn't seem appropriate. I understand that may suck for them, but seeing as how the title 'veteran' goes to a group who has accomplished something, it seems to diminish those accomplishments by using the same title for those who didn't even graduate ait.
To go further, I also try to distinguish, and inform civilians of the distinguishment between a veteran and a combat veteran. I am the former. I've deployed, and am about to again. However, I have never seen combat.
BLUF, I feel like though titles may seem of miniscule importance to some, there needs to be a distinguishment.

Response by SGT John Brock made Jun 9 at 2017 1:02 PM

SGT John Brock — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 13:02:18 -0400

6 months active then full reserves at a minimum. I did 2 years active 5 years active reserves.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 1:03 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 13:03:17 -0400

So if you get out with a dishonorable/ misconduct you are no longer perceived as a veteran?

Response by PO2 Michael Kirby made Jun 9 at 2017 3:05 PM

PO2 Michael Kirby — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 15:05:52 -0400

If you're dishonorably discharged you shouldn't be considered a Veteran, if you don't make it through bootcamp, or A-School, or at least til the end of your first term you shouldn't be considered a Veteran.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 4:26 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 16:26:39 -0400

I think it should be first tour

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 4:26 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 16:26:52 -0400

I think it should be first tour

Response by MSgt Kenton Romero made Jun 9 at 2017 6:43 PM

MSgt Kenton Romero — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 18:43:21 -0400

If I remember correctly at 120 days or less one gets an administrative discharge. I don't believe they are veterans. Personally, I think one must complete a 4 year enlistment to be a veteran

Response by SPC Frank Riley made Jun 9 at 2017 7:23 PM

SPC Frank Riley — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 19:23:24 -0400

I served 2 Branches of Service in a reserve status and not recognized as a Veteran because I don't have 180 days consecutive or have seen combat,do to my MOS and or Units,I agree with some of the other comments on the matter,but let's get real here I have served my country 16 good years, EARNED Decorations and Awards and still not a Veteran but this is discouraging for some,end of rant

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 9 at 2017 7:52 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 19:52:35 -0400

I'm about to hit six years in the Guard as a CH-47F pilot and I wouldn't even call myself a veteran having not deployed when I'm standing next guys wearing combat infantryman badges.

Response by CPL Brad Burt made Jun 9 at 2017 8:19 PM

CPL Brad Burt — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 20:19:22 -0400

The legion recognizes 1 day on active duty as long as you served during the congressional approved times, you can be a member. Its not for everybody. Ultimately, you have to look yourself in the mirror.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wienke made Jun 9 at 2017 8:23 PM

Sgt Wayne Wienke — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 20:23:08 -0400

I'd think you're a vet once, at a minimum, you complete boot camp or basic training.

Response by Sgt James Meloche made Jun 9 at 2017 8:56 PM

Sgt James Meloche — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 20:56:18 -0400

The day you graduate basic, you are a Veteran. Period

Response by PFC Philip Whitmore made Jun 9 at 2017 8:56 PM

PFC Philip Whitmore — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 20:56:33 -0400

Completing bootcamp and tq-3 once you become capped and in a battallion then you can be classified as a veteran. Upon completing your basic and tq-3 unless you are injured due to a training accident then you have commited to signing on the dotted line.

Response by LTC Robert Gray made Jun 9 at 2017 9:43 PM

LTC Robert Gray — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 21:43:48 -0400

Complete your contract honorably.

Response by SGT Sean McKnight made Jun 9 at 2017 10:15 PM

SGT Sean McKnight — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 22:15:17 -0400

Dobkins hit the nail on the head. CFR 38 is a little vague. It says "active service". There is active reserve and inactive reserve, thus my 10 years in the active Reserves and Guard is MORE than qualification. The VA in Iowa says it's a no-go for vet status. Vet status in other states I have been told was granted to soldiers with no more and even less time in service than I had with no deployments.

Response by MG Hugh Van Roosen made Jun 9 at 2017 10:23 PM

MG Hugh Van Roosen — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 22:23:51 -0400

There are many definitions of a veteran. Most are based on benifits. My belief is that it should be defined as a service member who is released or discharged under other than dishonorable conditions.

Response by CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern made Jun 9 at 2017 10:29 PM

CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 22:29:56 -0400

I agree you are a Veteran regardless of time served so long as your discharge is honorable. There are many reasons that preclude an individual from completing obligated service. We are all aware of most of them. Therefore, there should be no question in any military members mind referencing what is a veteran.

Having said that, a Veteran is defined differently by those who offer VA loans to purchase homes, Va Loans are based on the following and this is where I believe the 180-day Veteran designation came from. To receive a VA Loan the following requirements must be met.

Not just anybody can get a VA loan. Eligible service members, veteran, spouses and select others can purchase a home through the VA home loan program.

To what does “eligible” refer? It’s mostly about military service requirements set by the VA. In short, two days of Boot Camp typically won’t cut it.

You may be eligible for a VA loan if you:

Served 90 days on active duty during wartime,
Served 181 days on active duty during peacetime,
Completed six years of service in the National Guard or Reserves, or
Are the surviving spouse of a veteran or service member who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected disability.

These are the broad guidelines. There can be exceptions, and the only way to be sure is to get your Certificate of Eligibility, either with the help of a VA lender or directly from the VA.

These requirements. especially the 180-day requirement is where I believe we got the saying many of us are familiar with; a Veteran is someone who served at least 180 days but less than 20 years. Those who served at least 20 years or more were not Veterans the are retired. Of course, we are all Veterans, however it easy to see how myth is perpetuated.

If you own an Honorable Discharge, you are a member of the most elite professional organization in the world. You should proudly proclaim...I am a United States of America Veteran.

Response by SSG Darrell Peters made Jun 9 at 2017 11:17 PM

SSG Darrell Peters — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 23:17:11 -0400

Their is one thing that has not changed. If you are in Combat for One Day. That's all One Day you are a veteran and a combat Veteran at that.

Response by SSG Tommy Thompson made Jun 9 at 2017 11:33 PM

SSG Tommy Thompson — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 23:33:29 -0400

In the Army generally speaking you must complete 2/3 of your initial contract time. Medical discharges are the exception. Discharges for misconduct that result in a dishonorable discharges void Veterans status but it can be appealed, in some cases.

Response by SCPO Kenneth Raymond made Jun 9 at 2017 11:55 PM

SCPO Kenneth Raymond — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 23:55:49 -0400

I did 26 years active 1971-1997, I was told from day one that after you completed one year of active service, you were considered a veteran, I never looked up the particulars in the refs, I could be wrong

Response by CPL Casey Little made Jun 10 at 2017 12:22 AM

CPL Casey Little — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 00:22:56 -0400

I'v been taught a veteran is a soldier who has deployed. Deployed meaning taken orders to fight or support in a war or peace mission.

Response by SN Charles King made Jun 10 at 2017 12:31 AM

SN Charles King — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 00:31:32 -0400

If you were active duty and completed your contract honorably. You are a veteran.

If you have a DD214 that says Honorable or Retired, you are a veteran.

If you freaked out after a week of basic training, you are not.

If you leave your comrades and unit for failure to adapt, you are not.

----- see medical

Medical discharge, Purple Heart or injury due to combat deployment, Search and Rescue, and or training operations. You are a veteran.

Could be a few things uncovered by this...

Other than that you either got fucked by your service and commanders or you are a shitbag and deserve a fucked off DD214.

Response by CPL David Chandler made Jun 10 at 2017 1:13 AM

CPL David Chandler — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 01:13:56 -0400

If you didn't wash out of basic you're a vet.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jun 10 at 2017 2:46 AM

COL Charles Williams — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 02:46:58 -0400

I believe to be a Veteran, you must be serving, and/or honorably discharged...

Response by CPL Rob Mosher made Jun 10 at 2017 3:08 AM

CPL Rob Mosher — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 03:08:10 -0400

I'd say 2 -4 years with an honorable discharge. I served 4 and still wear my dog tags with pride. Never, ever take them off.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2017 9:24 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 09:24:55 -0400

Short answer: Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as “a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.”

http://va.org/what-is-a-veteran-the-legal-definition/

For various benefits or reenlistment it gets a bit more detailed. I don't remember the actual guideline but 180 days seems to come to me. Seems that was the minimum for one to complete to not be characterized as an ELS. If someone doesn't make it through boot camp or never go to boot they are characterized as Entry Level Separation (ELS). Any prior service that tries to get back in is governed by their Reenlistment Code and their Separations Code. The RE code specifies whether one can get back in and the SEPS code gives more detail. Example: RE3-P means a waiver is required for medical reasons and the SEPS code would give more detail, such as HDF - Pregnancy. This may have all changed but that's how I remember it. A RE-4 code meant not authorized ever to get back in so don't even ask for a waiver. These codes are found on the DD 214. Hope it helps.

RE codes: http://www.militaryspot.com/marines/u-s-marine-corps-re-codes
SEPS codes https://www.thebalance.com/military-separation-codes-3356946

What is a Veteran? The Legal Definition - VA.ORG

What is a Veteran? Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as

Response by SFC Terry Murphy made Jun 10 at 2017 10:07 AM

SFC Terry Murphy — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 10:07:39 -0400

How about the person that joins and then is released during Basic because of inability to adapt, coming up hot on a piss-test or having a previously undisclosed criminal charge that is found out after they ship? They served more than one day, but to me, they are not a veteran.

Response by LT Saul Pavlinsky Sr. made Jun 10 at 2017 1:02 PM

LT Saul Pavlinsky Sr. — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 13:02:23 -0400

Completion of first contract

Response by PO2 Chuck Houser made Jun 10 at 2017 3:47 PM

PO2 Chuck Houser — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 15:47:38 -0400

I feel if you signed the line and fulfilled that commitment under honorable discharge or any discharge that you, yourself,had no control over (medical...ect), you earned the title of veteran.

Response by SSG Jeff Smallhorn made Jun 10 at 2017 4:14 PM

SSG Jeff Smallhorn — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 16:14:17 -0400

If you never made it through initial training, get an entry level separation, and/or separation for failure to adapt them you are NOT a Veteran.

Response by Cpl Sean Hampe made Jun 10 at 2017 4:21 PM

Cpl Sean Hampe — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 16:21:56 -0400

I served as a Marine reserve after my 3rd year went active duty for almost a year as a Recruiter Aid. But considered active for that year. I consider myself a Veteran. Even as a Reserve comsidered myself after honorable discharge a Veteran.

Response by Sgt James Clewell made Jun 10 at 2017 4:48 PM

Sgt James Clewell — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 16:48:04 -0400

I generally humbly tell others that I served honorably, but out of harms way, and would rather not be referred to as a veteran, I refer to those who served in time of war, in harms way as vets....... the military gave me more than I gave it...

Response by Amn Dana Shelton made Jun 10 at 2017 5:09 PM

Amn Dana Shelton — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 17:09:52 -0400

So what about those that died during boot or school? Are they veterans, or medically discharged.

Response by SSG Bob Epperson made Jun 10 at 2017 7:34 PM

SSG Bob Epperson — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 19:34:28 -0400

24 months to qualify for VA assistance.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 10 at 2017 8:32 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 20:32:15 -0400

Minimum Duty Requirements. Most Veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980, or entered active duty after October 16, 1981, must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty in order to be eligible.Oct 5, 2016
Most Veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980, or entered active duty after October 16, 1981, must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty in order to be eligible. This minimum duty requirement may not apply to Veterans who were discharged for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, for a hardship or “early out,” or those who served prior to September 7, 1980. Since there are a number of other exceptions to the minimum duty requirements, VA encourages all Veterans to apply so that we may determine their enrollment eligibility.

Response by SPC Greg Crisman made Jun 10 at 2017 8:51 PM

SPC Greg Crisman — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 20:51:58 -0400

120 days

Response by PO1 Jeff Lowry made Jun 10 at 2017 8:59 PM

PO1 Jeff Lowry — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 20:59:12 -0400

Is it really a question of time served?

I would think anyone Honorably discharged can definitely be defined as a Veteran.
How about those who are POW,KIA, MIA? I would consider all of those categories a Veteran regardless of the amount of time served.

Should someone who has been discharged under other than honorable be considered a Veteran? That to me is the real question...my personal answer would be no, because they didn't completely fulfill their obligation of service contract.

Response by MSgt Neil Greenfield made Jun 10 at 2017 9:45 PM

MSgt Neil Greenfield — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 21:45:41 -0400

How about those draftees that only served 2 years? Elvis Presley comes to mind.

Response by PFC Ron Wilder made Jun 10 at 2017 9:47 PM

PFC Ron Wilder — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 21:47:27 -0400

Drafted May 5 1953, 16 weeks infantry basic Camp Roberts Ca. Korea 16 Mos discharged Apr. 55

Response by SGT Jim Filey made Jun 10 at 2017 10:04 PM

SGT Jim Filey — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 22:04:33 -0400

As a vet myself, (12.5 yrs) , if you enlisted, you signed a blank check to this nation or state that you may have to pay with your life. Unless you get a dishonable discharge, I would call you a vet, but there is a legal definition for what is a vet.

Response by MCPO Stuart Hampton made Jun 10 at 2017 10:49 PM

MCPO Stuart Hampton — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 22:49:47 -0400

Ran in to a guy in a bar in Alexdria, VA, 10 minutes from the Pentagon. Older guy, grey hair, appeared to be in shape, wearing a USMC ball cap. His age would have made him a VN vet. Everyone in the bar he had been frequenting for years considered him a VN vet. He did once I nailed him down admit he did 18 hours at Parris Island before he was asked to leave and still had no issue telling people he was a VN Marine. My dad did 5 tours in Nam, not a Marine, but a Seabee. Pissed me off. No one, and I mean no, one saw a problem with his claim when I called him out. Pissed me off.

Response by PO2 Jackson McDaniel made Jun 10 at 2017 10:50 PM

PO2 Jackson McDaniel — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 22:50:20 -0400

This is a much harder question today than when i joined. When I joined you had the choice of joining or waiting to see if you got drafted. Today, even those that join the reserves seem much more likely to be called to active duty in combat. I think anyone that signs the papers and is not dishonorably discharged deserves to be called a veteran.

Response by SPC Dustin Karr made Jun 10 at 2017 11:38 PM

SPC Dustin Karr — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 23:38:11 -0400

Completion of basic training.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 9:02 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 09:02:08 -0400

I think that you should have to complete your first tour to be considered a veteran. If you are medically separated then that should not count against you. But if you are separated as dishonorable you should not get to reap the benefits of thr title.

Response by SR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 11:46 AM

SR Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 11:46:49 -0400

Bottom line, everyone is going to have a different opinion, and NONE of us want to shit on our brother's honorable service, regardless of how long it lasted... Honorable service is honorable service.

Now, VA Benefits are one thing, but other than that what do we really get out of earning the title of a veteran? A free meal on Veteran's day, a "thank you" from a civilian. But, the best thing we get is the respect from another veteran, another member of our small community. And, A VETERAN KNOWS ANOTHER VETERAN, we can all smell a wannabe or a could've-been.

All that being said, I'm serving at my first (and probably last) duty station. I completed boot camp, A school, C school. I've gotten all required quals thus far, I've honorably done all Uncle Sam has asked of me. If I got out tomorrow, would I personally consider myself a veteran? No. My set ETS is 20DEC07. I haven't fulfilled my promise to my country yet. The only way in my mind to earn that title is to get out with an honorable, a HONEST medical discharge resulting from your service, or get out in a body bag.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 11:56 AM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 11:56:22 -0400

Like so many things, it depends.... Entry level discharges generally don't qualify the member for veteran status; but those only apply for the first 6 months. After that, except for higher degrees of misbehavior, the member is generally considered a veteran for benefit purposes. Some benefits have very specific criteria because the benefit is targeted to a particular purpose. Veteran's organizations like the VFW and American Legion set their own definition for membership eligibility.

Response by SPC Perry Attwell made Jun 11 at 2017 1:59 PM

SPC Perry Attwell — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 13:59:02 -0400

4 Years and Deployed to desert storm honorable discharge active army

Response by Nicholas Sciarrone made Jun 11 at 2017 2:40 PM

Nicholas Sciarrone — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 14:40:22 -0400

2 years minimum 10 years maximum

Response by SGT Eliyahu Rooff made Jun 11 at 2017 4:12 PM

SGT Eliyahu Rooff — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 16:12:36 -0400

I suppose it depends mostly on what the question really is asking. If it's asking how long one must serve to qualify for particular benefits, it's generally going to be 180 days active duty. Other than that, I think that once someone has said "I do" and was subsequently discharged with an honorable discharge, the Title 38 definition applies.

Response by Sgt Mark Felts made Jun 11 at 2017 5:21 PM

Sgt Mark Felts — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 17:21:56 -0400

Successful completion of your enlistment contract

Response by SPC Phil Dixon made Jun 11 at 2017 7:12 PM

SPC Phil Dixon — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 19:12:37 -0400

After first deployment should be the only qualification, but I do believe that there should be two different veteran terms, ie: combat veteran and just plain veteran

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 7:48 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 19:48:06 -0400

3 years and/or an honorable discharge for injury, pregnancy, etc...after completing initial entry training.

Response by SGT Mark Torbert made Jun 11 at 2017 8:49 PM

SGT Mark Torbert — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 20:49:42 -0400

I completed 8 yrs with the Army Guard. While I am proud of my service, I do not consider to be in the same category as Active/Combat vets. I was not deployed. Both my brothers were active Army, one served in Desert Storm. I will always be indebted to all of you for your sacrifices.

Response by MCPO Rene Parent made Jun 11 at 2017 9:12 PM

MCPO Rene Parent — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 21:12:53 -0400

180 consecutive days of active duty.

Response by MCPO Rene Parent made Jun 11 at 2017 9:18 PM

MCPO Rene Parent — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 21:18:19 -0400

180 consecutive days of active duty to qualify for veterans status / veteran benefits.

Response by SPC Chris Schache made Jun 11 at 2017 10:13 PM

SPC Chris Schache — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 22:13:57 -0400

If you served your contact, fulfilled your obligation and signed on the dotted line that for x number of years, you are willing to give your life for this country regardless of active, reserve our national guard, then you are a veteran. Stop twisting this. It's no wonder people treat vets the way they do. We can't even agree over this amongst military personnel. Sad really.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2017 11:51 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 23:51:43 -0400

I have not read all the responses but here's my take anyway. I enlisted shortly after 9/11 as a medic with the intention of being able to provide medical aid and fight at the same time. Due to being naive, I did not expect to be assigned to a CSH as a 91W, I just figured combat medics go to line units (thanks career counselor). My unit was already deployed when I got out of AIT and I never deployed during my 6 year enlistment. I do not consider myself a veteran. I sat the bench during the big games. I would not have preferred it this way but so be it. I therefore refuse to take any benefits that would be entitled to veterans.

Response by SP5 Joshua Young made Jun 11 at 2017 11:56 PM

SP5 Joshua Young — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 23:56:40 -0400

What If you're reserve and medically discharged?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2017 1:44 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 01:44:05 -0400

You're a veteran if you have a dd214. End of discussion

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2017 7:32 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 07:32:12 -0400

First thing first. Is your question about the benefits you are receiving or your status? Two totally different arguments. A Veteran is a man or women who raised their hand and swore and oath to write a check to the people of American that they would give everything up to and including their life to defend our way of life. If they completed that term of service honorably and were told by the government that your service is no longer required they are a veteran. Regulations stating 180 days or completion of your tour duty are for determination of benefits. A service member who reports for reception Station and is discharged through no fault of their own is a veteran, where as a service member who reports to reception station and is discharged because of an identifiable fraud is not. Veterans Status is not determined by a set number of days but rather by the character of the service performed. Benefits come from attaining certain milestones in time places and periods of service. I have an argument every year with the state as my period of service was partly during the era of Vietnam but I refuse to place the Vietnam Veteran tag on my car, Although I was in service and eligible to use that plate, I never set foot in country and therefore refuse to be identified as a Vet who had served there. So my answer to the question is: The Character of your service is the determining factor of status as a veteran, length of service is for determining your level of benefits for that service.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2017 8:08 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 08:08:23 -0400

Successful completion of your contract.

Response by PO1 David Middleton made Jun 12 at 2017 9:08 AM

PO1 David Middleton — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 09:08:05 -0400

Only after you complete your enlistment with a DD214 in hand that is anything other than dishonorable.

Response by SGT Terry Kramer made Jun 12 at 2017 9:27 AM

SGT Terry Kramer — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 09:27:56 -0400

anyone serving 1 day who is having a psychiatric emergency will be considered a veteran and receive help. If your not sure about being a Veteran please go to a VA near you. With or without your DD214 they can run a HINQ on you and let you no.

Response by SGT Stephan Jennings made Jun 12 at 2017 11:28 AM

SGT Stephan Jennings — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 11:28:00 -0400

The word veteran is defined as "a person who has had long service or experience in a particular occupation or field". That being said, we can look at regulations , the different component requirements, and types of discharges; but the truth of the matter is this, if you haven't spent any real time doing something consistently and gaining any real experience from doing it, then...(this is where you draw your own conclusions!)

Response by SrA James Beasley made Jun 12 at 2017 11:58 AM

SrA James Beasley — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 11:58:40 -0400

As soon as you finished your oath, you qualified as a Veteran, as long as you served your time, no matter how long, honorably.

Response by CW3 C Cattell made Jun 12 at 2017 12:35 PM

CW3 C Cattell — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 12:35:41 -0400

I have a ( to remain nameless) person in my life that was less than honorably discharged ffom the Army. Now, he uses his "vetrans" status to get a job. To say im pissed is,an understatement. The rest of my family thinks Im being "to hard" on him.

Response by SGT Pappa Russ Scarvelli made Jun 12 at 2017 2:01 PM

SGT Pappa Russ Scarvelli — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 14:01:36 -0400

If you are not discharged as an "UNABLE TO ADAPT" then in that case you are a Veteran, but if you couldn't adapt,,,"NO"!!

Response by CMSgt Richard B. made Jun 12 at 2017 3:21 PM

CMSgt Richard B. — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 15:21:42 -0400

Reservists or Guardsmen called to active duty for a period of at least 90 days are considered veterans, eligible for the same benefits as an active troop who has served 180 days or more.

Response by LCpl Stefani Casey made Jun 12 at 2017 3:31 PM

LCpl Stefani Casey — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 15:31:48 -0400

In my opinion, if you finish boot camp, go to your first duty station, and finish out the contract you signed, then you can be considered a veteran.

Response by PO3 Zakia Thiesen made Jun 12 at 2017 4:09 PM

PO3 Zakia Thiesen — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 16:09:39 -0400

Last I heard it was after two years of honorable active service.

Response by SPC Nicholas Bettinger made Jun 12 at 2017 6:05 PM

SPC Nicholas Bettinger — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:05:45 -0400

Veterans Healthcare Eligibility However

For the purposes of VA health benefits and services, a person who served in the active military service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable is a Veteran.

Response by SPC Nicholas Bettinger made Jun 12 at 2017 6:11 PM

SPC Nicholas Bettinger — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:11:30 -0400

To the Va's standards reservists who serve 20years and was never active for 2 years dont count as being a veteran, you have to have 2 years on active service to be called Vetean

Response by SFC Ricky Fraley made Jun 12 at 2017 6:22 PM

SFC Ricky Fraley — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:22:59 -0400

I know VA says you have to complete 24 months to be eligible for a veterans headstone. But I also know it says all you need is and other than dishonorable discharge. But if you haven't done 24 months don't expect a headstone from VA

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jun 12 at 2017 6:25 PM

SSgt Boyd Herrst — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:25:42 -0400

When I first went in in '70, I Joined AF Reserves. Later close to my first year in
A sitrep came up and the Active AF was looking for Reserves and Air Guard willing to switch over, no loss of grade, minimum
Of A1C, 5 level in several AFSCs, Cook/Baker being one of the fields At first they said I didn't have enough time in service or grade but changed their minds
When they saw my 201, and some other
Factors.. "You're not 18 yet!" "2 weeks" I said.. "Thst'll work!". I reported a week after my birthday. I was antsy.. I had to
Report to Langley AFB, from there they would transport me to Fort Lee, Va. for an advanced field food service training.. mine was not to to question why..(you know the rest!).. I got there and assigned
To a room... there was a sheet of paper with the rules for Students in the Advanced class which were slightly different than the pipeline students..
we'd only be there 3 to 4 weeks, no hell
Week.. no formations(that wasn't exactly
True).. Wd didn't fall in in the morn, we got up, went and ate and went to catch our truck.. once we got to the training area is where we formed up ea. Morn and afternoon when done.. At the end of my 4 weeks.. I got sent to McGuire AFB in New Jersey.. I ended up being a replacement Cook for another Airman that went To Vietnam.. my turn would come.. I was told.. so I dug in and gave them my 125%.. eventually I went.. Jan '72...

Response by SPC Barry Green made Jun 12 at 2017 6:30 PM

SPC Barry Green — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:30:19 -0400

Must serve at least one complete hitch

Response by PO2 Deborah Burr made Jun 12 at 2017 6:45 PM

PO2 Deborah Burr — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:45:43 -0400

I have a problem with one person regarding this issue. She made it through boot camp and got medically discharged in school. Technically, she's a vet, but it ticks me off when she puts her input into life in the service. She never did it!

Response by CPL Rafael Ramos made Jun 12 at 2017 6:56 PM

CPL Rafael Ramos — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 18:56:17 -0400

A Veteran for the definition of benefits is two years of active time OR the completion of your assigned activation. I served 8 Years 1 in Korea on the DMZ Fence Camp Liberty Bell and 2 years in Germany

Response by SSgt DeAndray Dyer made Jun 12 at 2017 7:06 PM

SSgt DeAndray Dyer — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 19:06:16 -0400

I look at it like sports and law enforcement. Your first year your a rookie, then after your first year you achieve get status.

Response by CPL Kevin Janes made Jun 12 at 2017 7:29 PM

CPL Kevin Janes — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 19:29:15 -0400

Personally, if you didn't at least deploy, you're not a Veteran. To me... That's like saying, "Here's a Purple Heart, just in case you get hurt." Notice I didn't say deploy to a combat zone... I'd count Panama, Guam or Africa as a deployment, due to the amount and type of service "you" provided. Even if you get hurt in BCT, AIT or Unit-Level and you're Med-boarded... you're not a Veteran; unless you've deployed to a Non-Domestic country.

Response by SCPO John Brennen made Jun 12 at 2017 7:48 PM

SCPO John Brennen — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 19:48:15 -0400

Anyone who serves their obligated time.

Response by PO3 Leo Zacher made Jun 12 at 2017 7:58 PM

PO3 Leo Zacher — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 19:58:04 -0400

My question is a little off topic but, figured the knowledgeable people on here would know the answer : I'm a Viet Nam area Navy Vet 1973-1977 and was in the Air Force Reserves from 1986-1991. Am I as a reservist during Desert Storm entitled to have a star on my National Defense Ribbon for serving in two wars? Thanks for any input

Response by PO1 Tom Elvester made Jun 12 at 2017 8:21 PM

PO1 Tom Elvester — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 20:21:46 -0400

First enlistment completed unless medically discharged....... RE-4 after A school doesn't count

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2017 8:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 20:59:28 -0400

A Reservist can serve in drilling 6 years and earn the veteran status now. They can also get all of the benefits like a VA loan! Deserved too

Response by CPO Randy Mitchell made Jun 12 at 2017 10:36 PM

CPO Randy Mitchell — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 22:36:25 -0400

Completion of first enlistment if not injured or part of a reduction in force.

Response by CPL Johnny Davis made Jun 13 at 2017 12:03 AM

CPL Johnny Davis — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 00:03:06 -0400

If you signed the same contract I did, put your life on the line like the rest of us (as long as finished AIT and made it to your post. To me thats a Vet. If your spent time deployed and seen combat, then Combat Vet. But dont tell me your the next Addy Murphy. Lol

Response by AN Michael Warren made Jun 13 at 2017 4:14 AM

AN Michael Warren — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 04:14:24 -0400

Depends on multiple factors,type of discharge,conditions of discharge,time in service,etc.after 11 months of service in the navy I was discharged due to the fact that I became a single parent and was deeemed non deployabe,not wanting a discharge I was told that either I give up my parental rightss to my daughter or be discharged..I chose not to give up my rights and was discharged.I planned on making the navy a career but was forced out.sstill would make the same deccision but did my duty to both the navy and my daughter.

Response by CWO4 Larry Hibbard made Jun 13 at 2017 7:58 AM

CWO4 Larry Hibbard — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 07:58:59 -0400

In principle I do agree that those that only serve a day should not be considered veterans but having said that, individual circumstances can vary greatly and lumping everyone into one bag never is a good idea. There are those who did not complete Boot Camp or survive their first unit. The reason that sometimes happens can be laid at the feet of the recruiters that brought them into the military. I suspect many on here have seen that individual even during Boot Camp that they knew should never have been allowed into the organization. My wife, who is a VA Nurse, has seen the results when someone with a very distinct mental illness was allowed into the military when they damn well should not have been. If the individual committed him or herself to joining and the recruiter allowed it knowing full well which in some cases was probably very obvious then it is the responsibility of the service to step up and do the right thing. The same would be true if the individual was physically harmed to the point where they could not continue on in the service while in bootcamp or on the job.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2017 11:04 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 11:04:31 -0400

If you complete all required training including basic training and your job specialty school and have not been discharged in any way other than an honorable discharge you should qualify . For even for those who have never deployed they took the oath they did their obligations they have earned the title

Response by PO2 Chiquita Beccue made Jun 13 at 2017 11:33 AM

PO2 Chiquita Beccue — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 11:33:10 -0400

I think it's either 2 or 3 years of service, depending on when you served. I was discharged as JO2 in 1991 after 10 years of service, so I know I qualify!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2017 11:47 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 11:47:41 -0400

What does the reg say. You're welcome

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2017 12:56 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 12:56:02 -0400

I feel that if you did Basic Training and AIT or your Boot and school, and then were discharged, you are considered a VET... if you never completed any of those due to injuries sustained while in training, you cannot be considered a VET, but should be entitled to the medical for the injuries you sustained, but for the time it takes to recover and that is it. The regulations used to say six months on AD to be a VET, then after OIF/OEF started, it was only after 30 days on AD.... Times change for those who have been in a long time and it is hard to keep up with the changes all the time... If you served at least 30 days in a combat zone, you are a combat zone vet... All I can say is if you do it, just do it.. suck it up and drive on, stop making excuses and do what needs to be done.. Period

Response by SSG Vance Conyers made Jun 13 at 2017 1:01 PM

SSG Vance Conyers — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 13:01:12 -0400

My two cents, regardless of AD, NG, or reservists a contract was signed making you available to be used by the government for a number of years, Just because someone did not deploy does not mean they could not have been (barring conduct or medical issues). I feel that if you make it out of all basic and individual training and avoid dishonorable discharge you are a veteran.

Response by LCDR Wayne Zieschang made Jun 13 at 2017 3:12 PM

LCDR Wayne Zieschang — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 15:12:41 -0400

The true answer varies depending on when you served. The laws effective at the time govern what benefits you have.

I have 10-1/2 years active and 10-1/2 reserved, retired, honorable discharge etc. I have most veteran benefits, but I ended up having zero/zip/nada for GI Bill.

When I graduated from Texas A&M with a commission in the Navy, due to class conflicts my senior year, I had to delay my commissioning and graduation by 3 months to take 2 classes during the summer.

My actual commissioning date fell during the 12 day window where neither the Viet Nam era GI Bill nor the Montgomery GI Bill were effective. So I and 52 or so people nationwide who commenced their active duty during that window have no GI Bill benefits.

AND to top it off, in Texas there is a thing called the Hazlewood Act, where if an honorably discharged veteran has exhausted the GI Bill benefits, they can get more under this act. But wait, you have to get a letter from the VA stating that you have exhausted your GI Bill Benefits. News Flash – If you never had any benefits, the VA cannot write a letter stating you have exhausted them. It is ASSUMED, with no possibility of challenging the decision, that if you have no GI Bill Benefits, you weren’t honorably discharged. So no Hazlewood benefits either.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2017 3:53 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 15:53:40 -0400

Does the question ask for what qualifies one as someone able to legally gain financial veteran benefits, or just to consider one's self and be called a veteran by others?

Response by SGT John Keaton made Jun 13 at 2017 4:53 PM

SGT John Keaton — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 16:53:06 -0400

Any discharge under honorable conditions would suit me.

Response by PV2 Jerry Kettner made Jun 13 at 2017 5:01 PM

PV2 Jerry Kettner — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 17:01:09 -0400

i served from dec-1976-oct-1978. i am considered a veteran but with no benfits cause i didn't serve during war time...

Response by SPC Stephanie Arballo-Allen made Jun 13 at 2017 6:11 PM

SPC Stephanie Arballo-Allen — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 18:11:46 -0400

180 days of active duty service

Response by SSG Robin Oyer made Jun 13 at 2017 6:51 PM

SSG Robin Oyer — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 18:51:03 -0400

6+ years including at least 1 overseas wartime deployment.

Response by SSG Robin Oyer made Jun 13 at 2017 7:04 PM

SSG Robin Oyer — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:04:00 -0400

Correction from my earlier post.. I believe if you served overseas during a wartime effort and you are still in a first time 6 year obligated enlistment then you are entitled to Veteran status upon coming home and discharging under any conditions other than court martial or criminal acts while overseas. Soldiers should be also recognized as a veteran, if for some reason they have served a full 20 years and received their retirement letter.. and by chance didn't serve in a wartime effort. They served past their obligation with recognition.

Response by CPL Harold Peckenpaugh made Jun 13 at 2017 7:28 PM

CPL Harold Peckenpaugh — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:28:25 -0400

180 days ! I served 4 years Army 3, 6 mos Navy . I personally could care less what branch of service anyone was in but I have a stronger bond with blue cord people .

Response by Sgt James Quinn made Jun 13 at 2017 7:36 PM

Sgt James Quinn — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:36:22 -0400

At least one hitch

Response by SSG James Stodola made Jun 14 at 2017 1:38 AM

SSG James Stodola — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 01:38:50 -0400

http://va.org/what-is-a-veteran-the-legal-definition/

What is a Veteran? The Legal Definition - VA.ORG

What is a Veteran? Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as

Response by SGM Phillip Leamons made Jun 14 at 2017 2:21 AM

SGM Phillip Leamons — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 02:21:16 -0400

UNDER
Title 38 → Chapter I → Part 3
(d) Veteran means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.
However, there are exceptions though they are not listed. One big one is a Trainee Discharge. Discharged in Basic does not count as veteran status,

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2017 2:59 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 02:59:05 -0400

No at 10 yrs of service or more

Response by SP5 Marcus Johnson made Jun 14 at 2017 6:13 AM

SP5 Marcus Johnson — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 06:13:54 -0400

I believe that a soldier should have completed their first contact to become a vet but I also believe that a soldier should been in a combat zone to become a true veteran

Response by Christopher Doolittle made Jun 14 at 2017 7:29 AM

Christopher Doolittle — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 07:29:49 -0400

I have an interesting Question: I was a DAC deployed to SWA (KAF, Leatherneck, Shindand) for 179 in 2013. I was retrograde operations: nothing special but a duty none the less. I am not a vet, but if you were talking to the civilian population, what would you call it? I know when people I ask I tell them exactly what it was deployment as a civilian, period. Would you call that a Vet of AFG or just what it is..again I call it for what it was a Civilian deployment.

Response by SSgt Daniel Scott made Jun 14 at 2017 9:11 AM

SSgt Daniel Scott — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 09:11:08 -0400

Deployment regardless of time

Response by PFC Harold Coates made Jun 14 at 2017 11:13 AM

PFC Harold Coates — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 11:13:22 -0400

Its questions and attitudes like this that have created stolen valor! What you or anyone else here thinks or says changes weather or not someone is a veteran! If you want to spout legal terms please show me the ucmj pertaining to it other than that STFU already and move on because you are no better than any other person who offered up their life in service to their country

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 14 at 2017 12:33 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 12:33:26 -0400

I feel you deployed you are a veteran. if you didn't get the chance to deploy then you are a separated member of the armed forces. Just my opinion

Response by SP5 Chiquita Chapman made Jun 14 at 2017 12:35 PM

SP5 Chiquita Chapman — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 12:35:10 -0400

180 days

Response by HN Don Kenefick made Jun 14 at 2017 12:35 PM

HN Don Kenefick — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 12:35:18 -0400

As my 4 year enlistment was coming to an end, the military was so glutted with people they were practically begging people to take an early out. It was hard to work up the willingness to re-up with that and a general feeling of low morale throughout.

Response by PO2 Jodo Lee made Jun 14 at 2017 2:30 PM

PO2 Jodo Lee — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:30:26 -0400

I was raised in the navy by a bunch of salty fucks. And they acknowledged that I was active but only until i completed my first tour did they tell me "you are now a veteran, regardless of what happens in the future, you did what others refused and no one can take that from you."

Response by SSG Julie Garrett made Jun 14 at 2017 4:50 PM

SSG Julie Garrett — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 16:50:36 -0400

Deploy or not the guard/reserves are still veterans by regulation if retired from service 20 years or not as long as it is mot a dishonorable discharge. I believe some here need to read the regulation a little closer. I am a medically retired VETERAN from the guard and I did not deploy, however, I did serve my time of 17 1/2 years and retired with a medically honorable discharge. By regulation I am considered a veteran. I do get most veteran benefits and I am fighting with the VA now due to being on Active duty orders when diagnosed with the things that are wrong with me. If you do not believe that guard deserve the right to be considered veterans then step into the shoes of us and check out what we do. We not only support the federal fight but the state and local fight too. We are called for all missions not just the wars on other grounds. We fight the wars that you only hear about. Those are our everyday jobs. When you can say that you have seen the real action of everyday life on the streets then you can say that we are not veterans.

Rant over!!

Response by SGT Chris Tilton made Jun 14 at 2017 4:53 PM

SGT Chris Tilton — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 16:53:43 -0400

I think if you give a fuck then that should disqualify you immediately. Conduct unbecoming.

Response by SN Alvin Paul Dorris made Jun 14 at 2017 5:28 PM

SN Alvin Paul Dorris — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 17:28:45 -0400

this is fair , I know some one that did not make it out of boot camp and calls himself a veteran, I served 7 years and saw no combat and I still find it hard to call my self a veteran.

Response by SA Anthony Carter made Jun 14 at 2017 6:02 PM

SA Anthony Carter — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 18:02:09 -0400

160 days

Response by Cpl Max Freezze made Jun 14 at 2017 8:18 PM

Cpl Max Freezze — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 20:18:38 -0400

180days

Response by Bryan Kinkead made Jun 14 at 2017 10:21 PM

Bryan Kinkead — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 22:21:12 -0400

I went half-way through BCT and got medically separated for an injury existing prior to service even though I got it at Basic. Would I be considered a vet? I don't feel like one so when making my account I hit not a vet.

Response by PFC Robert Perry made Jun 14 at 2017 10:45 PM

PFC Robert Perry — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 22:45:37 -0400

In June 17 2001 I stepped foot on yellow foot prints at MCRD San Diego i spent 6 months of my life there, blood sweat and tears where left there. I faced medical set backs with my legs and on my 6 month mark was told I was going to be given an ELS. This broke my heart, but before I left the base comander came to me and told me not to leave with my head down. Be proud of the fact that I had the balls to even try where others don't. For years after I tried to get to where I could go back but it never happened. But I still remember him to this day putting his hand on my shoulder handing me my papers and telling me that. I struggle with the fact that some consider me a veteran while other people don't. But in my heart I will be a marine till the day I die, even if my body did not allow that. SEMPER FI TILL I DIE.

Response by SPC David Howdyshell made Jun 14 at 2017 10:59 PM

SPC David Howdyshell — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 22:59:37 -0400

I assume after basic and advanced training to Augsburg Germany in the 19th Infantry , to Berlin Germany for three month rotation, Munich Germany with 9th Cavalry 1964 to 1967.

Response by PO2 John Crary made Jun 15 at 2017 1:38 AM

PO2 John Crary — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 01:38:15 -0400

3 years unless you serve during a time of war in a place of war...as in if we are at war but you spent your time LLD stateside unless your LLD was directly cause from combat. Falling out of your rack and breaking your ankle in kuwait doesnt count. Just saying.

Response by PO2 Max Smart made Jun 15 at 2017 9:46 AM

PO2 Max Smart — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 09:46:35 -0400

Pretty simple, if you actually served 1 day, you are a veteran. Now what is more important to me (and should be to others) is the classification of discharge. Obviously Honarable and medical are higher on the list than general, other than honorable, entry level, or dishonorable. You serve, you are a vet, but the classification of discharge determines the quality of that service

Response by PVT Chandra Farmer made Jun 15 at 2017 9:48 AM

PVT Chandra Farmer — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 09:48:05 -0400

This is why I don't consider myself a VET. I stood in MEPS sworn in for active duty for 4 years. Did almost my entire basic, with GOs until the very end I stress fractured both my knees under my knee caps and couldnt do the runs or marches for miles.
I ended up in PTRP and never healed good. They sent me home before the 180 days to get VA services. It was my choice if I stayed another 1 1/2 months to get it, I was done!! My drive was gone, I was in pain.
Anyways this is why I don't consider myself a VET!! I went, I tried, my knees failed me, I came home. I don't expect to be treated as a VET either

Response by PO3 Claude Wilson made Jun 15 at 2017 12:05 PM

PO3 Claude Wilson — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 12:05:12 -0400

Completion of enlistment and Honorable Separation.

Response by Sgt Robert Jolley made Jun 15 at 2017 12:36 PM

Sgt Robert Jolley — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 12:36:23 -0400

Not important what anyone else may think or feel, what is important is any veterans benefits that the individual may be entitled to based on law. Go to the VA and get an eligibility determination...if you don't like their answer appeal or seek legislative change.

Response by SPC DeAnna Calderon made Jun 15 at 2017 12:38 PM

SPC DeAnna Calderon — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 12:38:34 -0400

Hell, some wouldn't consider me a veteran. I served 3 years of my 6 year enlistment, but I fell off a helicopter during field training and was severely injured and then medically retired. I didn't get to deploy with my husband and my unit. I worked my butt off, I was the Distinguished Honor Grad and the only woman in my AIT class, then the only woman Crew Chief in a line company in my battalion. Sometimes shit happens and all you can do is roll with it. Even though, I wasn't able to complete my Pilot packet to become a helicopter pilot, I'm still proud of my service when I had men in my face telling me I wasn't wanted there or harassed.

Anyone willing to sign up and take those risks are good in my book. It's more than most are willing to do.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 4:13 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 16:13:02 -0400

A lot of people don't realize that if you join the Guard/Reserve and complete Basic and AIT, you are then honorably discharged from active duty upon completion of said training. You have thus earned Veteran status.

Response by Pvt William Casteel made Jun 15 at 2017 4:14 PM

Pvt William Casteel — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 16:14:11 -0400

yes

Response by Pvt William Casteel made Jun 15 at 2017 4:16 PM

Pvt William Casteel — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 16:16:03 -0400

no minimum

Response by SGT Marty Beck made Jun 15 at 2017 4:55 PM

SGT Marty Beck — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 16:55:13 -0400

1 tour

Response by SGT Brian Arias made Jun 15 at 2017 5:31 PM

SGT Brian Arias — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 17:31:44 -0400

I feel like a deployment should qualify it.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 7:53 PM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 19:53:59 -0400

I have 21 years active Reserve, eighteen of which were counted towards retirement. It includes one short tour in Afghanistan as a medic at Bagram. Counting annual tours, previous AD and the like, I am told I still am not officially a veteran because I haven't served 180 days consecutively....don't know how true that it but the source seemed fairly authoritative...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 8:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 20:08:46 -0400

After 24 honorable months time in service (minimum)

Response by PO3 Joe Smith made Jun 15 at 2017 8:27 PM

PO3 Joe Smith — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 20:27:34 -0400

Complete your enlistment contract, 3,4 or whatever you promised to serve after you were taught a trade.

Response by PO1 Larry Washington made Jun 15 at 2017 8:36 PM

PO1 Larry Washington — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 20:36:36 -0400

At least one full tour

Response by SFC Fred Nora Garcia made Jun 15 at 2017 8:44 PM

SFC Fred Nora Garcia — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 20:44:44 -0400

Typically its a 180 days but you still have to get a positive DD214

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 10:41 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 22:41:29 -0400

Just up front; I served a total of 32 years AD and reserve. An entry level separation is anything less than 180 days and usually does not confer veteran's benefits--so the argument could be made that an ELS recipient is not in fact a veteran....that's just semantics and doesn't cost the tax payer anything...other than that if you get an honorable, general, OTH, dishonorable, or even the Big Chicken Dinner you're a veteran...you actual mileage will vary with characterization.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2017 11:06 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 23:06:42 -0400

There is no difference between active and the Guard or reserve. They both qualify as veterans. Deployed or not

Response by CPO Aircrew Natops Instrutor made Jun 15 at 2017 11:17 PM

CPO Aircrew Natops Instrutor — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 23:17:49 -0400

I had a guy I worked with in civilian life that spent 3 weeks in marine boor camp, broke his ankle and got out. He says he is a veteran, yet I had a friend that was a marine and stayed in 4 years but ha no ribbons are medals and was classified as a non vet. Still doesn,t make sense to me, he was called a slick marine. Would like some ideas on how the first guy got to be a vet yet not the second.

Response by LCpl James Walling made Jun 15 at 2017 11:19 PM

LCpl James Walling — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 23:19:21 -0400

I think there is a minimum, and it is two years for active duty. Not sure for reserve or NG's

Response by PO1 Victor Coss made Jun 15 at 2017 11:57 PM

PO1 Victor Coss — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 23:57:25 -0400

Served in conflict, activated in support of a conflict. Retired. Honorable discharge

Response by PO2 Walter Niehaus made Jun 16 at 2017 12:20 AM

PO2 Walter Niehaus — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 00:20:29 -0400

1956-1960 Combat Air Crewman, HE1 Recovery (space capsules on re-entry)-never crossed my mind to think there was a question. If you joined, served and was honorably discharged you were a veteran.

Response by PFC Scott Mc Ewan made Jun 16 at 2017 2:19 AM

PFC Scott Mc Ewan — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 02:19:38 -0400

Completed terms of enlistment, with HONORABLE DISCHARGE...

Response by SCPO Dennis Hale made Jun 16 at 2017 5:51 AM

SCPO Dennis Hale — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 05:51:01 -0400

180 days of active duty

Response by CPO Randy Coffman made Jun 16 at 2017 6:11 AM

CPO Randy Coffman — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 06:11:41 -0400

If one is discharged honorably, then he/she is a Vet. It don't matter if one is active duty or reserve. If that DD214 shows that you are honorably discharged then guess what; you are a Vet. There are many benefits that require a minimum service period of not less than 180 days. But that is something different.

Response by PO3 James Edmondson made Jun 16 at 2017 6:18 AM

PO3 James Edmondson — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 06:18:47 -0400

I have a friend that served over 15 yrs between Active and National Guard. He is even on the register for Gulf War Illness. However when it comes down to the VA and him getting his disability, he didn't have enough time on Active Duty by "4" days. So what is the "TRUE" answer here?

Response by PO2 Dave Eagle made Jun 16 at 2017 7:22 AM

PO2 Dave Eagle — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 07:22:21 -0400

You have to actually serve. Not conforming is not serving. If you are injured during training and are discharged, you have served.

Response by PO1 Warren Chinn made Jun 16 at 2017 11:05 AM

PO1 Warren Chinn — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:05:53 -0400

I believe you must be active duty for 90 days to be considered a veteran. So for most boot camp drops, they can not claim.

Response by PO3 Thomas Prescott made Jun 16 at 2017 11:46 AM

PO3 Thomas Prescott — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 11:46:12 -0400

depends on when you served. congress changes the criteriia

Response by Cece Spink made Jun 16 at 2017 12:17 PM

Cece Spink — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 12:17:14 -0400

Boot camp completion

Response by 1SG Russ Souders made Jun 16 at 2017 1:56 PM

1SG Russ Souders — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:56:54 -0400

If you're a Veteran you don't need the answer....

Response by PO3 Danetta Dormire made Jun 16 at 2017 2:11 PM

PO3 Danetta Dormire — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 14:11:48 -0400

Anyone who served for a period of time should be considered a veteran once they are no longer enlisted.

Response by CPL Earl Kochis made Jun 16 at 2017 4:20 PM

CPL Earl Kochis — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 16:20:16 -0400

What about those who are railroaded out of the military by a crap command that when they try to transfer from a bad command the command immediately chapters them out to keep them from getting said command investigated

Response by PO1 Robert Kay made Jun 16 at 2017 5:27 PM

PO1 Robert Kay — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 17:27:06 -0400

1) A veteran is someone who has signed a blank check up to and including giving his life for his country. One day, one week, one month. Does not matter.
2) What would disqualify someone as a veteran. According to the VA, one cannot get benefits if one gets a dishonorable discharge or a general discharge under other than honorable conditions. This person is still a veteran but is not going to get accepted as one.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 5:50 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 17:50:00 -0400

I am thinking times have changed. At one time reserve and guard. We're a way out of the draft. And war. Now and for sometime now. We have been deployed for so many things. Like blizzards and hurricanes floods and wars. I believe if you finish BCT.....And AIT.....And serve honorably. Then your a veteran. I think enough Reservest and National Guardsmen have died for that status to be upgraded.

Response by CPL Tim Hevrin made Jun 16 at 2017 6:34 PM

CPL Tim Hevrin — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 18:34:19 -0400

I used to think he'll yea I'm a vet. Short stint on active duty then reservists for five years. Now I look at what these kids have been through since 911 in the Sand Box and I'm humbled and don't deserve anything compared to them

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 6:45 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 18:45:33 -0400

If you want to get technical 1 year(365 days) qualifies you as a veteran will fill benifits.

Response by MSgt Tom Fodaro made Jun 16 at 2017 7:25 PM

MSgt Tom Fodaro — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 19:25:00 -0400

Do your contract..then your a vet, not any time sooner

Response by LTJG Michael Leslie made Jun 16 at 2017 7:26 PM

LTJG Michael Leslie — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 19:26:02 -0400

According to the V.A. and depending on the years or era you served (i.e.: Viet Nam Era) (180 Days continues active service) but I served 4 years Active Duty, 2 years inactive reserve & 8 1/2 years in the Coast Guard Auxiliary ...

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 8:24 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 20:24:15 -0400

I always struggled with this because ive been in the guard for several years and when it's all done I will have put in 8. I feel if I never deploy then I don't deserve the title yet others say yes definently for joining and sticking it out.

Response by CPL Marcus Brawner made Jun 16 at 2017 9:19 PM

CPL Marcus Brawner — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 21:19:29 -0400

What type? Not every vet is a med board vet or a combat vet

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2017 11:43 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 23:43:57 -0400

180 days (or more) of active duty with an Honorable Discharge qualifies you for Veteran status.

Response by PFC Justin Doyle made Jun 17 at 2017 1:47 AM

PFC Justin Doyle — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 01:47:46 -0400

In my opinion anyone who serves at all unless it's a failure to adapt or straight up crime , theft , robbery , murder etc that gets you booted you're a vet. We all know straight shit bags that skated by and good soldiers who got made an example of for something stupid. I once saw 4 article 15's line up in the LTC's office. One smoked pot , two cocaine , and one heroin. Guess who was a better soldier by miles and got booted? The guy who smoked a joint. Never scored less than 280 pt , and never got mofos on any test ever taken. They kept the Coke heads and heroin addict. Never rehab'd And ets'd. And the pot smoker was 3 months from his ets date. The Coke heads? Just re listed and spent the money on hookers and blow... Which would you say we're better vets or vets at all?

Response by CPO Glenn Moss made Jun 17 at 2017 3:34 AM

CPO Glenn Moss — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 03:34:38 -0400

There is an actual legal definition: 38CFR3.1(d)

"Veteran means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable."

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=2c27136e25a56c5230cdd3f952acd6dc&node=pt38.1.3&rgn=div5#se38.1.3_11

Picking hairs to split is really arguing an opinion over what individuals THINK does or does not qualify a person as a "veteran". If someone finds themselves going down that path, then in my opinion, they're making a mountain out of a mole hill.

The question, in my mind, has to do with HONOR. Regardless of the time of service or reason for discharge, DID THE PERSON SERVE WITH HONOR? If so, then they're a veteran. A person who is discharged after a single day in boot camp is no less a veteran than any other so long as that limited amount of time was served with honor.

I submit that any other person who thinks themselves to be a veteran, yet puts down another who served with honor simply because of that person's limited time or experience, is themselves lacking in personal honor.

eCFR — Code of Federal Regulations

us government publishing office

Response by CPO Richard Goldthwaite made Jun 17 at 2017 3:48 AM

CPO Richard Goldthwaite — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 03:48:44 -0400

My first response is to revert back to my days of old. I called a spade a spade and had no issues with jumping into a sailors ass with both feet if he earned it. My sensitivity meter was pegged only by a good cup of joe...So, here's my reserved tort...A veteran is defined for most people by Title 38 of the CFR. For those of us who believed in our service as God, Mom, Apple Pie and Baseball, a veteran is one who served in a branch, wore the uniform honorably, and wrote a check that was payable to this country including their life...no questions asked.. Key element there is honorable buttercup. You want legal version, see Title 38 of the CFR which denotes Veteran. End of story. Your confusion lies with your innate ability to believe your central in the universe and you have some ordained right to give an opinion in your belief of what makes a veteran. A veteran is an earned title. It doesn't have squat to do with combat, peace time, or anyone's opinion. The requirement is serve and serve honorably.. If this applies to you, then the title is earned. It's not number of days, MOS/NEC, or if you deployed to some shit hole and chucked spears at bad guys... If not honorably, shut your pie hole and continue on as a civilian. The only people impressed with tall tales are those that haven't served...the rest of us don't care what dragon you stayed or snake you wrestled...if having the war brought to our soil made you American enough to join the service and shove a flag in you ass, then earn it...the four eyed kid with a typewriter sitting in a rear echelon command sending messages for 20 years is just as earned as Aufdey Murphy as long as he served honorably. Again, the key here buttercup is honorable. Everyone these days wants to be a superhero...funny, no one gave two shits for being a veteran in the 80s or 90s...now everyone wants to be one. One more thing...all of you numbnuts with opinions, shut up...go sit by your bowl and lick your nuts. Your embarrassing yourself even offering an opinion...carry on..turn two

Response by GySgt James Murphy made Jun 17 at 2017 5:54 AM

GySgt James Murphy — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 05:54:44 -0400

180

Response by Cpl Tim Gilmour made Jun 17 at 2017 6:32 AM

Cpl Tim Gilmour — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 06:32:05 -0400

I think it's simple,Honorable completion of enlistment term

Response by SCPO Murlan Frovarp made Jun 17 at 2017 8:19 AM

SCPO Murlan Frovarp — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 08:19:11 -0400

20 years

Response by SSG Chris Morrison made Jun 17 at 2017 10:03 AM

SSG Chris Morrison — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 10:03:43 -0400

Someone once told me everyone is a shit bag in someone's eyes. I did 14 and change before I med boarded out. I can look down on those that did less time but... there are many that did 20 and did more deployments that can look down on me. And there's those that did 32 looking down on them. In the end it's your time in service no one else's. you should be there to impress anyone but yourself and damn anyone around you that says "I'm better than him". In the end civilians don't care and most Soldiers you served with wont remember you anyway. Don't get caught up in the bullshit "I'm so much harder than thou"

Response by SP5 Mike Kindred made Jun 17 at 2017 10:12 AM

SP5 Mike Kindred — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 10:12:29 -0400

I'm with the belief that if you are tested on the field of combat, you are a veteran. If you never deployed you are a soldier, sailor or equivalent, but can be proud of that fact. People in college are not doctors, not until they graduate and treat there first patient in my opinion. A singer is when someone else heard you, if no one has you just like to sing. There was a saying I heard when bull riding, "are you a bull rider, or do you ride bulls". I'll give you the respect of joining without question, but a blank sleeve does not signify a veteran to me. In training you want a veteran to teach you from first hand be it a sport or combat, how can you trust what you are learning if they never tested it in real time.

Response by SP5 Dick Martin made Jun 17 at 2017 10:45 AM

SP5 Dick Martin — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 10:45:43 -0400

I spent 31+ months in Germany in the early 60's. I was there when the Berlin wall went up. We never knew if the communists were gonna be coming through the Fulda Gap. We were a "tripwire" force. I consider myself a VETERAN!

Response by SPC Altina Kamara made Jun 17 at 2017 11:06 AM

SPC Altina Kamara — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 11:06:58 -0400

Some people are saying that you're a veteran if you deployed. I completed basic, AIT, and was at my duty station for almost 3 years when I was medically retired, honorably. I may not have deployed but I still served. I was away from my family and I wore that uniform almost every day of the week. Deployed or not, I earned that veteran status.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 3:54 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 15:54:23 -0400

Response by SPC Jeff Bollerman made Jun 17 at 2017 4:37 PM

SPC Jeff Bollerman — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 16:37:26 -0400

Time? Contract? I didn't sign a contract, I got a letter from Lyndon Johnson. I served two years and two days (66-68). Please remember there are 17,725 names on the Vietnam Memorial Wall (30.4% of combat deaths) that were draftees that never finished their two years (or contract if you will).

Response by SSG David Hotchkiss made Jun 17 at 2017 4:47 PM

SSG David Hotchkiss — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 16:47:28 -0400

When I went through basic training, the Drill Sgts would not call us soldiers until after graduation, up until that time we were recruits, we had a mission and were ready and willing to take it to the max, even if that ment coming home drapted with a flag, I belive that when you earn the right to be called a soldier, is when you have the right to be called a vetran

Response by Charles Burkhamer made Jun 17 at 2017 6:51 PM

Charles Burkhamer — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 18:51:34 -0400

I went to desert storm straight out of AIT and served extra length of time bringing our equipment back. Then when I got to my regular base I got into an altercation with an officer and put out on a general what do you classify me as?

Response by SFC Steve Greene made Jun 17 at 2017 7:17 PM

SFC Steve Greene — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 19:17:33 -0400

So, i had a soldier that Did Approximately 7 years, and Recieved 1 Discharges, 1 Honorable and 1 Dishonorable, As i see him nearly weekly ,he always ask would he be considered a Veteran, i presumed that he would. He was a Darn good Soldier,but just dod something STUPID 1 Month before he was To ETS,And rhis was over18 years ago. He has been a model citizen sice, Great Job, Moved up in Many Promotions, but never Downgrades his mistake,and SUPPORTS Veterans Wholeheartedly..(Cimments)

Response by PO3 Keith Gaudette made Jun 17 at 2017 7:25 PM

PO3 Keith Gaudette — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 19:25:02 -0400

Finish your first enlistment and receive honorable discharge

Response by SSG Timothy White made Jun 17 at 2017 7:30 PM

SSG Timothy White — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 19:30:27 -0400

180 by law

Response by LCpl Wayne Walsh made Jun 17 at 2017 7:42 PM

LCpl Wayne Walsh — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 19:42:57 -0400

Ii think you need to finish your responsibility, your tour. with Honer and integrity. I know some older guy's that "Pussed out and got a hardship discharge to get out of going. I have NO respect for someone who didn't complete their tour. YOUR NOT A VETERAN IF YOU PUSSED OUT AND HAD MOMMY GET YOU OUT! Hell , I finished Marine boot camp with a fractured ankle. MAN UP! MOS_ 0311-0341-0351 3500.

Response by Capt John Bonosoro made Jun 17 at 2017 8:05 PM

Capt John Bonosoro — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 20:05:04 -0400

No. If we start down that road someone will claim that only KIA qualifies. If you had what it takes to volunteer and get in, you are in. That does not mean honor, benefits, or medals. It jus means you are a veteran.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 8:11 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 20:11:07 -0400

My thought is a vet is some one deployed to a combat zone and served a min of 6 months with no phone no Wi-Fi no mommy no daddy. On top of that a combat vet is not some one who stayed on the F.O.B their whole deployment. I'll give to those in the horn but any where else no. Not Japan not Kosovo not Germany not Kuwait. Iraq Afghanistan any where in the horn i.e Somalia Djibouti Exedra just my thought

Response by PO2 Chuck West made Jun 17 at 2017 8:31 PM

PO2 Chuck West — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 20:31:57 -0400

To me, an enlistment of at least 2 years of active duty should be required to be considered a veteran. Service of less than 2 years shows a lack of committment to anything other than a desire for veterans benefits. I spent 4 years active duty, then 1-2 years voluntary active reserve. I ended up training a bunch of reservist draft dodgers with attitudes. I certainly do not consider them my equal in terms of "veteran" status.

Response by Sgt Mike Cerny made Jun 17 at 2017 8:41 PM

Sgt Mike Cerny — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 20:41:49 -0400

180 days

Response by SSG Bill Darraugh made Jun 17 at 2017 8:43 PM

SSG Bill Darraugh — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 20:43:58 -0400

Yes, u should serve the time u sign up for unless u get medical early out

Response by LTC Scott Sossaman made Jun 17 at 2017 8:53 PM

LTC Scott Sossaman — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 20:53:13 -0400

180 days and/or Honorable Discharge or General under Honorable Conditions.

Response by 1SG Ken Wioskowski made Jun 17 at 2017 9:50 PM

1SG Ken Wioskowski — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 21:50:54 -0400

Any person who serves ANY length of time in any military branch.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2017 11:35 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 23:35:36 -0400

Probably not. But what would you qualify as if you served in the army for 10 weeks

Response by Cpl Lawrence R. Weston made Jun 18 at 2017 12:02 AM

Cpl Lawrence R. Weston — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 00:02:56 -0400

Two years or more.

Response by Cpl Lawrence R. Weston made Jun 18 at 2017 12:03 AM

Cpl Lawrence R. Weston — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 00:03:51 -0400

Yes

Response by Cpl Lawrence R. Weston made Jun 18 at 2017 12:04 AM

Cpl Lawrence R. Weston — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 00:04:22 -0400

Two years or more

Response by PO3 Linda Brown made Jun 18 at 2017 1:16 AM

PO3 Linda Brown — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 01:16:09 -0400

So now that we cleared up the definition of veteran through the actual Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Can we get on to the important topics?

Response by CW2 Alex Jones made Jun 18 at 2017 1:36 AM

CW2 Alex Jones — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 01:36:32 -0400

First tour

Response by PO2 Buddy Stewart made Jun 18 at 2017 2:05 AM

PO2 Buddy Stewart — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 02:05:30 -0400

Hmmm, well I did six year active duty and my two years of IRR for the total 8 year enlistment, which we all had to do if you recall, so I guess I'm a vet. I'm not a 'combat' vet. Unfortunately I'm too old and they won't let me back in. Funny how I never thought I would miss it, and yet I do.

Response by SSG Bruce Nilson made Jun 18 at 2017 2:12 AM

SSG Bruce Nilson — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 02:12:16 -0400

The term "veteran" can have more than one meaning, depending on if you're having a beer in a bar, or if you're trying to qualify for VA health care or some other legal benefits.
You'll need to look up the regs if you're trying to convince some bureaucrat one way or the other, but when it comes to looking at that man in the mirror, only YOU can answer that one.
Very few people go Infantry, but without support, we grunts wouldn't be able to do what we do, either.
Did you raise your hand, sign on the line, and be ready to roll (whether you did or not), and did you do your job?
If you can look straight in the eyes at that bastard in the mirror and answer "yes", then you've got your answer.

Response by LCpl Don Brown made Jun 18 at 2017 7:06 AM

LCpl Don Brown — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 07:06:32 -0400

Any one discharged under honorable conditions

Response by Cpl Smitty Smith made Jun 18 at 2017 8:59 AM

Cpl Smitty Smith — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 08:59:19 -0400

Completion of 1st tour, early discharge other than medical, less than honorable discharge, base on individual circumstances. No PTSD BULL SHIT pussies.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 9:11 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 09:11:09 -0400

Must served 180 days and Honorable Discharge

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Jun 18 at 2017 9:41 AM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 09:41:59 -0400

I guess in today's age we will have people who "identify" as a veteran whether they actually served or not.
If I identify as being 20 years older than I am can I start drawing my Social Security early?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 10:16 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 10:16:57 -0400

To me there is a difference between a veteran and a combat veteran. If I hadn't deployed I would be loathe to call myself a vet, but that's just me. Anyone who served honorably and completed thier contract or were injured or God forbid killed are Veterans. Although back to the combat thing we have been at war for 16 years how can someone have not been to combat.

Response by PO2 Robert Slinkard made Jun 18 at 2017 10:38 AM

PO2 Robert Slinkard — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 10:38:41 -0400

I personally feel that if an individual can complete basic training, but not A/ MOS school. And gets discharged within 90 days from day 1 of boot deserves the BCD

Response by Sgt Richard Supak made Jun 18 at 2017 11:38 AM

Sgt Richard Supak — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 11:38:25 -0400

Completion of contract

Response by Sgt Richard Supak made Jun 18 at 2017 11:42 AM

Sgt Richard Supak — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 11:42:59 -0400

Semper Fi Brothers and Sisters of all branches

Response by CDR Joseph Hubbell made Jun 18 at 2017 11:47 AM

CDR Joseph Hubbell — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 11:47:25 -0400

Reach you eos.

Response by SPC Kyle Williams made Jun 18 at 2017 12:01 PM

SPC Kyle Williams — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 12:01:49 -0400

Simply put if don't serve 180 days before discharge, you are not legally a veteran. Doesn't matter how u feel.

Response by PO1 Patrick Mann made Jun 18 at 2017 12:03 PM

PO1 Patrick Mann — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 12:03:39 -0400

completion of basic training. once accepted as a member of the armed forces and fulfilled the basic requirments they are a veteran

Response by CPL John Debus made Jun 18 at 2017 12:04 PM

CPL John Debus — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 12:04:08 -0400

after you finish your initial training , you are no longer a recruit or in training status your are a veteran. you are ready to defend the constitution i think this is the bar.

Response by SSG Samuel Waters made Jun 18 at 2017 12:15 PM

SSG Samuel Waters — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 12:15:28 -0400

They should have to complete at least one full enlistment. With out question. HONORABLE. That is all I have to say

Response by CPL John Debus made Jun 18 at 2017 12:17 PM

CPL John Debus — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 12:17:08 -0400

cant send everyone into a theater of operation , you need logistics and medical support , so if you we not deployed your just as much as a vet as the one who was lucky enough to get there number pulled.

Response by SSgt Travis Moore made Jun 18 at 2017 1:00 PM

SSgt Travis Moore — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 13:00:19 -0400

I joined the Army guard at 17. Spent two and a half years in the guards, then joined active Air Force. I still considered myself a vet during the Guard time due to the fact I completed all training and received an honorable discharge from the Guards when I joined the Air Force. What I struggle with is, the type of veteran. Yes, I served outside of CONUS, but never in a combat zone. I volunteered for everything, but was never considered. No derogatory marks in my record so I never understood. I was willing. After almost 10 years in the Air Force, I was honorably discharged. According to my military records, I have two honorables. I know I am a vet, but, it's almost embarrassing to say I am a vet. I never went into a dangerous situation, unless you call the cold war a tense one. I highly respect those that went into combat zone or into harms way and regard them as veterans. I have heard others talk about this also. It's just something we have to deal with.

Response by SP6 Terrance Russell made Jun 18 at 2017 1:30 PM

SP6 Terrance Russell — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 13:30:03 -0400

At least do sometimes in the military and earn your way in.

Response by Sgt Marla Selby made Jun 18 at 2017 3:22 PM

Sgt Marla Selby — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 15:22:34 -0400

Sgt Marla Selby, I say 181 days with Honorable Discharge, Reserves & Guard included

Response by SN Ryan Mraz made Jun 18 at 2017 4:25 PM

SN Ryan Mraz — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 16:25:42 -0400

Completion of a tour seems good to me.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 18 at 2017 5:31 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 17:31:33 -0400

I served 7 years almost 8 in the army reserve with 2 mos but never deployed. I will be on órders for less than a week, but I'm not sure if I'm cosiders a veteran. I got a honorable discharge but didn't receive a dd 214. So I'm not sure what's next?

Response by SGT RicknDanielle Heusted made Jun 18 at 2017 6:13 PM

SGT RicknDanielle Heusted — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 18:13:09 -0400

I would have to say at minimum, completion of your initial enlistment. That means at least you did what you signed up to do and either it wasn't your thing or you wanted to move on in life.

Response by CPL Terry Stewart made Jun 18 at 2017 6:19 PM

CPL Terry Stewart — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 18:19:24 -0400

As long as receive an honorable discharge it should be after180 days

Response by Cpl Bill Iliff made Jun 18 at 2017 7:34 PM

Cpl Bill Iliff — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 19:34:15 -0400

A Veteran is someone who will still go back when they are called. A Veteran still believes his obligation is life-long. A Veteran is someone who still holds his country in the highest regard. If you fit these criteria, then you are a Veteran.

Response by SrA Candace Brown made Jun 18 at 2017 8:48 PM

SrA Candace Brown — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 20:48:04 -0400

I think that you're a veteran if you have an honorable discharge or a medical discharge. Would you consider the Ft. Hood shooter or Bo Bergdal to be vets? I don't.

Response by CPL David Widding made Jun 18 at 2017 8:59 PM

CPL David Widding — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 20:59:49 -0400

Less than honorable or dishonorable

Response by Brittani Carlsen made Jun 18 at 2017 11:38 PM

Brittani Carlsen — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 23:38:20 -0400

Okay. Let me enlighten all of you on a situation. There is a wanna be marine named Brandon here in east Texas. He's worthless. Okay. When we met, he told me he got shot in Pakistan guarding the embassy. Re read that. GUARDING AN EMBASSY IN PAKISTAN. I automatically knew he was full of shit. Well, when he was in, due to reports, the last and final day of The Crucible, Brandon took the butt of his M16 rifle and smashed it into his right shin repeatedly causing a "reoccurring injury" causing him to then go to medical and stay in medical for 6 months. He didn't run the field on graduation day with his other unit members. He was told to sit in the stands. Well now, Brandon goes around to all of these veteran hikes here in Texas claiming he's a veteran. He works at a governments affairs for veterans building claiming he's an injured veteran. But here's the deal. I'm married to an actual veteran. My husband has a G.I bill, some benefits from the VA, and he did one 15 month tour in Iraq and honorably served his time. Brandon doesn't receive a GI Bill, no VA assistance, no NOTHING. But because he served 180 days in the military and his DD214 says other than honorable, he's a veteran.? Absolutely NOT. This kind of shit is disgusting! It's disgusting because there are so many men and women fighting for our freedom overseas that are actual veterans and it's shitbags like this guy that make it bad for everyone else. If you purposely injur yourself in the marines and recieve an other than honorable, uncategorized discharge YOURE NOT A VETERAN. He never went overseas. He wasn't allowed to be with his unit on graduation. He has all these marine tattoos but he is NOT a veteran. Rant over.

Response by MSG Alan Barrett made Jun 19 at 2017 7:56 AM

MSG Alan Barrett — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 07:56:15 -0400

I completed my first 180 days of basic training, AIR and OJT in Ft. Leonardwood, MO. I continued in the National Guard in supply and admin. I worked full time for the Guard for 6 1/2 years as a GS but was required to wear uniform every day. I later transferred to active Reserve. I held various positions in admin, food service, supply, instructor and Inspector General NCO. During this time I spent many extra days of FTTD. I retired after 28 years. I consider myself a Veteran. I do not feel I am entitled to certain VA benefits such as medical treatment at VA facilities, although I do have TRICARE.

Response by Cpl John Gilmer made Jun 19 at 2017 8:25 AM

Cpl John Gilmer — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 08:25:01 -0400

Think you should fulfill your obligation of first enlistment

Response by 1SG Leon Espe made Jun 19 at 2017 8:50 AM

1SG Leon Espe — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 08:50:48 -0400

Veteran of what? Veteran of Military training? Combat veteran? Veteran of lonely, dreary or dangerous assignments? When I enlisted in 1948 a Vet was a "War Vet". The VFW would only accept you as a member if you could prove "combat status" or time in a combat zone. During the Korean War we only qualified for State combat pay if we had 6 days out of a month on "the line". Total time in country didn't cut it, you had to have 6 days for each month on the front line to draw the pay. Rear area duty did not count. I received my combat pay from the State of Minnesota. Some states did not pay combat pay, each paid various amounts. I received my Minnesota State combat pay after I returned from the Korean War. I believe the present requirement of an Honorable Discharge to qualify a person as a "Veteran" is about as fair as you can get.

Response by PO2 Shane Ross made Jun 19 at 2017 8:56 AM

PO2 Shane Ross — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 08:56:20 -0400

Minimum of 90 days at a duty station, not boot camp or school.

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Jun 19 at 2017 10:54 AM

SGT Alicia Brenneis — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 10:54:43 -0400

To those arguing combat experience vs "POG"/peace time soldiers.
Combat experience has nothing to do with being a veteran. Those who served during peace time were still there and available. Just because they weren't called to combat during their service doesn't make them less then those who were. Thinking that you some how have a higher status bc you experienced combat and they didn't reveals a flaw in your character, not their service.

Response by LTJG C Mader made Jun 19 at 2017 11:04 AM

LTJG C Mader — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 11:04:18 -0400

If you volunteered you completed basic then you are a vet

Response by CPL Larry Stalvey made Jun 19 at 2017 11:26 AM

CPL Larry Stalvey — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 11:26:18 -0400

At lease 1 Honorable Discharge I have two Airborne

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 11:28 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 11:28:55 -0400

vet·er·an
ˈvedərən,ˈvetrən/Submit
noun
a person who has had long experience in a particular field.
synonyms: old hand, past master, doyen, vet; More
a person who has served in the military.
"a veteran of two world wars"

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 1:33 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 13:33:14 -0400

Unless you are hurt and medically discharged after basic training, you should have to at least serve out your first enlistment to be considered a veteran. IMO.

Response by PO3 Chuck Lands made Jun 19 at 2017 2:04 PM

PO3 Chuck Lands — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 14:04:26 -0400

OTH or Dishonorable Discharge

Response by SPC Robert Snider made Jun 19 at 2017 2:57 PM

SPC Robert Snider — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 14:57:23 -0400

When you complete all your training and complete your tour of duty and are properly discharged either honorably or medically the number you are a Veteran

Response by SN Glen Hapeman made Jun 19 at 2017 3:41 PM

SN Glen Hapeman — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 15:41:08 -0400

Any discharge other than dishonorable should qualify you as a Veteran

Response by AN Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 19 at 2017 5:08 PM

AN Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 17:08:25 -0400

2years or more

Response by PO1 Steve Holt made Jun 19 at 2017 5:25 PM

PO1 Steve Holt — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 17:25:21 -0400

180 days is when you can get veterans benefits. That's it!!!

Response by SGT Rodney Dodson made Jun 19 at 2017 5:25 PM

SGT Rodney Dodson — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 17:25:55 -0400

i think it is 36 month of non -combat time to receive VA benefits. not sure

Response by TSgt Ronald Thompson made Jun 19 at 2017 7:43 PM

TSgt Ronald Thompson — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 19:43:30 -0400

I served 6years and 7months as a 0331 USMC was discharged because my feet were messed up . I served in Air National Guard, then the Army National Guard, next the Army Reserves, finally the Air Force Reserves the I retired. I'm proud of all my service I did everything the military told me to do I was ready to go and do what they told me to do.

Response by Pvt Bill Dixson made Jun 19 at 2017 8:08 PM

Pvt Bill Dixson — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 20:08:01 -0400

5 years

Response by SP6 Virgil Denayer Jr. made Jun 19 at 2017 9:03 PM

SP6 Virgil Denayer Jr. — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 21:03:46 -0400

Served 3yrs army 14yrs army National guard

Response by SP5 Ruth Decker made Jun 19 at 2017 10:06 PM

SP5 Ruth Decker — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 22:06:30 -0400

Dishonorable Discharge

Response by PO2 Reuben James III made Jun 19 at 2017 10:57 PM

PO2 Reuben James III — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 22:57:03 -0400

Completion of first enlistment!

Response by PO2 Leslie Smith made Jun 19 at 2017 11:17 PM

PO2 Leslie Smith — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 23:17:14 -0400

You served your a veteran.

Response by CPL Luis Arias made Jun 19 at 2017 11:28 PM

CPL Luis Arias — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 23:28:15 -0400

Hey rally point believe it or not 11c can be airborne too so square that shit away. You ever jump out a c130 with a mortar on your crotch? Really makes for a fun 8 plus hours waiting for your chalks turn to jump. If you have a dd214 that says honorable discharge your a vet end of discussion.

Response by SPC Jackie Schuler made Jun 20 at 2017 5:07 AM

SPC Jackie Schuler — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 05:07:54 -0400

First tour

Response by 1SG Steve Brown made Jun 20 at 2017 7:55 AM

1SG Steve Brown — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 07:55:35 -0400

Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations states specifications for classification as a "veteran". Enough said. I spent 4 years active Air Force 1973-1977, then after my discharge enlisted in an ANG unit. I served there 19 years.

Response by SrA John FoundsIII made Jun 20 at 2017 10:43 AM

SrA John FoundsIII — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 10:43:23 -0400

I Served in The USAFR From 1978 to 1986 with 2 years inactive . I Had 2 AFSC ( job titles) during this time I started as a Hydraulic/Pneu Air craft Mech working on C-130's a (42354) . When President Regan was Shot our unit was Activated when we were in Panama .... I later changed Afsc and went back to school and became a Security Police officer ... I was trained for missions with my TS clearance but none were ever activated .... In the beginning My basic training and tech school was a little short of 6 mths ..... But overall I gave our country 10 Years of my life even being part time .... Am I a Vet ???

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2017 1:07 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 13:07:09 -0400

I find the issue being is for reserve or national guard soldiers neing told there are not veterans or qualify for any veteran benefits (I.e. VA benefits, GI Bill,etc) until after their first deployment it brings into question if being a veteran means actually deploying. Alot of guardsmen or reservist deploy while some active duty men never do however, the deployed guardsmen depending on his time overseas is normally alotted 50% of his GI bill after his one deployment where as a soldier who flys out to fort Carson and camps for 4 years never deploys then is discharged gets 100%. There in my opinion should be a difference between a service veteran and a deployed veteran as far as benefits. Also I think a reservist or guardsmen who deploys and fulfills his 6 year enlistment should be entitled to 100% GI bill he does 2 more years in top of a standard active 4 year contract which I understand is full time vs part time. But regardless he gave his time so doesn't he deserve the benefit

Response by SFC Sean Layton made Jun 20 at 2017 3:55 PM

SFC Sean Layton — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 15:55:28 -0400

If someone has said they "was going to enlist but..." or has "played a lot of first person shooters" and "watched a ton of war movies and documentaries about war" then they should be granted "veteran" status, no questions asked.

Response by CPL John Sirovatka made Jun 20 at 2017 5:07 PM

CPL John Sirovatka — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 17:07:44 -0400

Not completely finshing 1st term

Response by Robert Alan made Jun 20 at 2017 5:44 PM

Robert Alan — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 17:44:38 -0400

I am a civilian looking to be a potential recruit for the ARMY Rangers. Both my parents and great grandfather served our military. That being said anyone who has served and completed their training and however long they wished to serve and had been honorably or medically discharged is a veteran. Dishonorable discharges do not count in many people's eyes or even employers. Hence the dishonorable part. It's worse than treason. It's a public shaming of whatever wrong you committed. A discharge, hornorable or medical, is a veteran. Or if you retire or die in combat. Anything else is not a veteran.

Response by SPC Dawn Appelberg (Johnson) made Jun 20 at 2017 5:57 PM

SPC Dawn Appelberg (Johnson) — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 17:57:52 -0400

Completion with honorable discharge of first tour in my opinion barring medical discharge.

Response by MSgt Medard Murfin made Jun 20 at 2017 6:56 PM

MSgt Medard Murfin — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 18:56:20 -0400

I figure if a guy sticks it through basic, he's a veteran to me.

Response by PVT Richard May made Jun 20 at 2017 11:23 PM

PVT Richard May — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 23:23:53 -0400

Here is to pissing off some people, because that is what I am going to do.
I was active military - boot/AIT/Duty station.
I was discharged 9 months into my duty station due to blown eardrum and herniated back problems.
But - and this is where I become enraged - a few other things happened that I simply cannot discuss. Not because I don't want to - but because of the sheer embarrassment and humiliation.
Am I a vet?
I went in on my own - I was not drafted.
I was willing to do my duty - put my life on the line.
I come from a proud military family - my dad did two tours in 'Nam and 20 years total in the Army.
Would I be considered a vet?

Let's take this a step further.
A person that is raped while in the military - they are discharged - told they have personality disorder. Believe it or not, this happens far more than a lot of people realize.
Are they vets?
Or, a person enlist - gets to basic, but sadly, during basic, they start to suffer Asthma attacks that were not diagnosed during entry exams. Are they vets?

Yes, there are some people that barely do a month or two at duty station and get kicked out because of their behavior. Are they vets?

Response by SPC Douglas Campbell made Jun 20 at 2017 11:48 PM

SPC Douglas Campbell — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 23:48:19 -0400

180 days

Response by A1C Jim Wheeler made Jun 21 at 2017 3:53 AM

A1C Jim Wheeler — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 03:53:16 -0400

The rules say13 months of active duty service.

Response by PO1 Donald Randall made Jun 21 at 2017 5:21 AM

PO1 Donald Randall — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 05:21:16 -0400

after going through basic and school, then going to first command.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2017 7:51 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 07:51:20 -0400

2 years of honorable service

Response by SGT Jason Ellenburg made Jun 21 at 2017 10:39 AM

SGT Jason Ellenburg — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 10:39:29 -0400

In order to be considered a veteran, you need only an "Honorable" tag on your DD-214. Whether you get out on medical or spend 20 years, you're a veteran as long as you get that Honorable tag.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2017 11:37 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 11:37:11 -0400

If you enlist, serve your time (whatever that may be, and regardless of what you did/MOS) then you're a Veteran.

If you we discharged prior to the end of your enlistment for any other reason beyond BCD or Dishonorable then you are a Veteran.

I really hate this question, but it comes up from time to time I think because there are a lot of posers out there. Anyway, those are my two cents.

Response by LCpl Larry Barnett made Jun 21 at 2017 1:33 PM

LCpl Larry Barnett — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 13:33:05 -0400

i would say after you go thru schools battalion and then you have served at at least 2 duty stations,then you could be called a vet

Response by Brandon Potts made Jun 21 at 2017 1:51 PM

Brandon Potts — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 13:51:16 -0400

This is a dumb question it's all a matter of how honest are you. If you didn't earn it don't claim it. I was medically discharged in basic I have never once claimed the title because I didnt finish. Move on and own it find the next chapter in your life and try for that.

Response by MIDN CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 21 at 2017 3:20 PM

MIDN CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 15:20:37 -0400

When you complete one full contract

Response by FN Thomas Endicott made Jun 21 at 2017 4:20 PM

FN Thomas Endicott — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 16:20:56 -0400

180 days

Response by Cpl Benjamin Weston made Jun 21 at 2017 6:27 PM

Cpl Benjamin Weston — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 18:27:20 -0400

Graduated boot camp.... honorable discharge.... I think it's already in place is it not....

Response by PO2 Robert Comegys made Jun 21 at 2017 6:32 PM

PO2 Robert Comegys — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 18:32:37 -0400

Title 38 was what we were given to understand way back when (USN 1969-73), and it certainly seems to work as well now as ever.

Response by PFC Frank Moore made Jun 21 at 2017 6:57 PM

PFC Frank Moore — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 18:57:59 -0400

This is one of the things that has bothered me since 1982. I joined the marines and went to parris island, did a couple months in 3rd battalion and then blew out my knee on the obstacle course. The Corps gave me an honorable discharge and the rank of private first class "i got three buds to join with me" came home and had a complete knee reconstruction, " acl, menial meniscus, and some other big names i tore up" i love the Corps and my house has always looked like a usmc recruiting poster, maybe thats why my son joined the corps in 2006 and did his 6 years as a MP And pulled a tour in iraq. I guess he took over where i left off. Ive always been torn on what to say or do on veterans day. The preacher ask all vets to stand.. sometimes i do, sometimes i go outside where i wont have to make the choice of sitting or standing. I tried to get back in during desert storm and twice after that: every time something stopped me from getting back in. I later got a masters degree at UK became a teacher and taught a military history class where many students made the decision to leave for our military as it was the most patriotic thing one could do. Of all the degrees ive earned, i honestly would give them all up for the EGA, i never got. But i have lived my life by the ethos the Corps taught me while i was there. Many of my friends have made careers out of the military, my son has made me proud for his service. They are all my heros

Response by SSgt Mike Watson made Jun 21 at 2017 8:20 PM

SSgt Mike Watson — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 20:20:47 -0400

Id say complete your enlistment honorably. Exceptions for those serving honorably who are discharged early for medical or family hardship reasons no fault of their own.

Response by PO1 Dennis McCloskey made Jun 21 at 2017 10:24 PM

PO1 Dennis McCloskey — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 22:24:29 -0400

Completion of Boot Camp

Response by Sgt Cary Gill made Jun 21 at 2017 10:54 PM

Sgt Cary Gill — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 22:54:09 -0400

At least 180 days unless wounded

Response by PV2 Troy Wilhoite made Jun 21 at 2017 10:59 PM

PV2 Troy Wilhoite — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 22:59:51 -0400

I was an 11 bravo but was discharged honorably after entering voluntarily into the DNA program and failing the program. I only spent a total of 10 months in the armed forces and have difficulties whenever someone recognizes my service. My wife seems to think that it is something to be proud of but I`m ashamed of being released early.... I do not consider myself a vet and checked this out for feedback

Response by Sgt Mike Maiden made Jun 21 at 2017 11:40 PM

Sgt Mike Maiden — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 23:40:16 -0400

An honorably discharged veteran. I think we assume that when we hear, " Veteran".

Response by SN Howie Block made Jun 22 at 2017 12:02 AM

SN Howie Block — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 00:02:41 -0400

Completion of first tour

Response by SSgt Dwaylon Calhoun made Jun 22 at 2017 1:26 AM

SSgt Dwaylon Calhoun — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 01:26:12 -0400

180 days

Response by SFC William Nichols made Jun 22 at 2017 1:35 AM

SFC William Nichols — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 01:35:50 -0400

To me, you earn the right as a Veteran as along as you served your initial term of enlistment. That shows that you have at least worked alongside your peers in the best and worst of times, wether you liked the service or not, and was discharged. You just don't deserve it if you find yourself spending most of your time in jail or the Brig. Thoughts?

Response by PO2 Bill Crotti made Jun 22 at 2017 3:42 AM

PO2 Bill Crotti — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 03:42:07 -0400

It depends on why you are out you had to make a attempt each situation is different

Response by PO2 Bill Crotti made Jun 22 at 2017 3:43 AM

PO2 Bill Crotti — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 03:43:03 -0400

If you get dishonorable discharge we have a problem

Response by SPC Joseph Bagonis made Jun 22 at 2017 8:45 AM

SPC Joseph Bagonis — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:45:57 -0400

You should have to complete yoir entire enlistment with an honorable discharge

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2017 11:57 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:57:10 -0400

I'm a vet 71 to 73 Korea 2nd div , 6 yr's active reserve, 2 yr's guards , my daughter was in basic and had a heart attach do to a drill instructor pushing new training to hard in hot weather would that make her a vet after all not her doing

Response by 1st Lt Craig Holland made Jun 22 at 2017 2:00 PM

1st Lt Craig Holland — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 14:00:01 -0400

If you have a DD214 you are a veteran

Response by CPT Jim Gillcrist made Jun 22 at 2017 5:29 PM

CPT Jim Gillcrist — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 17:29:17 -0400

I fail to see why this discussion matters. This seems like the circle jerk of all circle jerks.

Response by LTC Scott Sossaman made Jun 22 at 2017 6:38 PM

LTC Scott Sossaman — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 18:38:25 -0400

I believe a veteran is someone who has satisfactorily completed BCT/AIT (or service equivelent) and assigned to a unit other than a holding company in a Medical Battalion/Squadron. Must be honorably discharged or GD under honorable conditions.

Response by SPC David Sanders made Jun 22 at 2017 8:17 PM

SPC David Sanders — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 20:17:51 -0400

I think 180 days iz enough to be considered a veteran

Response by SPC David Sanders made Jun 22 at 2017 8:20 PM

SPC David Sanders — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 20:20:10 -0400

I think if a person serves at least 1year they should be considered a veteran no mater what

Response by SFC Andrew Becker made Jun 22 at 2017 9:23 PM

SFC Andrew Becker — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 21:23:42 -0400

First enlistment completed. . none of these RFT's for im sad, or I cant take it bullshit. Suck it up buttetcup!!

Response by PV2 Michael Metcalfe made Jun 22 at 2017 9:59 PM

PV2 Michael Metcalfe — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 21:59:04 -0400

1 year of non-combatant service or 1 day of combat service. Anything other than a dis-honorable discharge should work.

Response by PO2 Michael Souders made Jun 22 at 2017 11:13 PM

PO2 Michael Souders — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 23:13:37 -0400

Completion of first tour

Response by SFC Greg Witte made Jun 22 at 2017 11:31 PM

SFC Greg Witte — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 23:31:31 -0400

A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made payable to The United States of America, for an amount of up to and including their life. The amount of time could be as little as one day. Example: A recruit ships from the MEPS and boards a plane heading to their training location and the plane crashes and they die. What this person did or didn't do has no bearing on whether or not they are a veteran. Furthermore, character of service also has no bearing on whether or not they are a veteran, it only effects what benefits they qualify for. I think that veteran's need to think less about how high the bar needs to be considered a veteran and more about why we have vets with dishonorable or less than honorable discharges. Or, why we have so many veterans committing suicide. These questions have gone unanswered far too long.

Response by PO3 Dawn Newell made Jun 23 at 2017 1:37 AM

PO3 Dawn Newell — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 01:37:19 -0400

You signed that fucking dotted line with full intent... Unless dishonorable 1 day makes you a vetran.
Are you a soldier of you were just a corpsman or administrating... stop the bs divide. We are those that choose the greater over ourselves. Nothing more needs to be said.

Response by SSG Dottie Dorman made Jun 23 at 2017 9:35 AM

SSG Dottie Dorman — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:35:01 -0400

a veteran is someone who has been honorably discharged. someone still in the military is not a veteran, yet. how did I learn this? while on leave I got sick and tried to see a VA doctor. they wouldn't see me because I was still active duty (not a veteran). they sent me to the civilian hospital.

Response by PO3 Donato Curcio made Jun 23 at 2017 9:39 AM

PO3 Donato Curcio — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 09:39:30 -0400

According to the VA, after I think 1981(?) you must have served 24 consecutive month of active duty or been activated and boots to the ground if reservist in order to be qualified as a Veteran. In New Jersey, you must have served combat to be a Veteran, no matter how long you served.

Response by TSgt Edward Arruda made Jun 23 at 2017 10:54 AM

TSgt Edward Arruda — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 10:54:49 -0400

180 days of good service.

Response by LTC Gary Aten made Jun 23 at 2017 11:19 AM

LTC Gary Aten — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 11:19:15 -0400

Here's may take, spoken as one who served three years on Active Duty in the USMC, followed by 24 years in the Army National Guard, with 17 of those in an Active Guard/Reserve Status: If you were a member of the active components and completed your initial term of enlistment/obligated service as an officer, you are a "veteran". If you were a member of the Reserve Components and were mobilized, you are a "veteran". If you were a member of the Reserve Components and retired after completing 20 years of service, you are a "veteran".

Response by Sgt Marla Selby made Jun 23 at 2017 11:20 AM

Sgt Marla Selby — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 11:20:16 -0400

180 days & an honorable discharge

Response by 2LT Forrest Grammer made Jun 23 at 2017 11:21 AM

2LT Forrest Grammer — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 11:21:35 -0400

A 'VETRAN' has at least fulfilled his obligation to a military branch of service "honorably" in support of a conflict or War!!!

Response by SGT Randall Smith made Jun 23 at 2017 12:39 PM

SGT Randall Smith — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 12:39:39 -0400

If you have served in a war zone and taken fire then you are a Veteran. Grunt, Clerk, Cook. If you risked your life you are one of us. To clarify, If you wore the uniform no matter where you served and got a honorable discharge that is something to be proud of and I am honored to know you. But a Veteran served in a combat zone.

Response by PO2 William Ruff made Jun 23 at 2017 1:41 PM

PO2 William Ruff — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 13:41:37 -0400

2 years minimum.

Response by CPL Gilbert Platero made Jun 23 at 2017 1:58 PM

CPL Gilbert Platero — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 13:58:37 -0400

180 days of ACTIVE DUTY. Reserves/National Guard personnel ordered to active duty and completed the the tour of duty. Basic training/advanced training is not considered active duty, it is considered training only.

Response by SGT Mindi Martinez made Jun 23 at 2017 2:50 PM

SGT Mindi Martinez — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 14:50:16 -0400

completion of 8yr contract requirement. unless LOD injury. or death.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2017 6:24 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 18:24:32 -0400

I believe that it is a minimum of 36 months.

Response by CPL Robert Pickard made Jun 24 at 2017 8:55 AM

CPL Robert Pickard — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 08:55:07 -0400

As long as you served your contract and commitment to full-term with Honor you are a Veteran.

Response by SSgt Gary Kerscher made Jun 24 at 2017 4:30 PM

SSgt Gary Kerscher — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 16:30:43 -0400

180 days

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 24 at 2017 7:23 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 19:23:32 -0400

Should be completion of enlistment or combat tour.

Response by SSG Larry Pedersbeck Sr made Jun 25 at 2017 9:07 AM

SSG Larry Pedersbeck Sr — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 09:07:52 -0400

Completion of 1st enlistment

Response by SFC Frances Butler made Jun 25 at 2017 1:05 PM

SFC Frances Butler — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 13:05:22 -0400

23 years AD, 16 years reserve

Response by SFC Frances Butler made Jun 25 at 2017 1:05 PM

SFC Frances Butler — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 13:05:36 -0400

No need!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2017 1:33 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 13:33:23 -0400

First Enlistment

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Jun 25 at 2017 1:34 PM

Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 13:34:34 -0400

The moment I set my foot on the airstrip metal grating in Phubai Vietnam, I was a veteran! Who was there at that time to argue that with me???? You are what you are, when you were where you were!

Response by LCpl Rick Collins made Jun 25 at 2017 2:01 PM

LCpl Rick Collins — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 14:01:50 -0400

Minimum one duty station, after basic and advanced training. With exception of reservists, because they will do weekend future and weekly annually musters and exercises, minmum 2 years active duty

Response by SP5 Edward Bonertz made Jun 25 at 2017 2:40 PM

SP5 Edward Bonertz — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 14:40:15 -0400

If you are a dishonorable discharge or less than Honorable you shouldn't be able to collect VA Benefits AT ALL

Response by CPO Shane Baldwin made Jun 25 at 2017 6:34 PM

CPO Shane Baldwin — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 18:34:46 -0400

As far as I am concerned, you are a veteran if you have served any military branch, regardless of your job/rating, and served at least one term of enlistment and were honorably discharged.

Response by SPC Richard Trost made Jun 25 at 2017 7:35 PM

SPC Richard Trost — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 19:35:36 -0400

13months

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2017 7:57 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 19:57:13 -0400

I grew up with the understanding that a veteran was some one who served in a war or a conflict, which is also my current opinion. I'm a boot E-4 0311 who's never been anywhere and I don't consider myself a veteran at all and I would never claim to be one unless I served/fought in Afghanistan like my brother, for example. If I ever did claim I was a veteran, what am I supposed to tell people? I'm a veteran of the 2 weeks of AT in Morocco where my life was never in danger? My grandfather was a WWII silver star/purple heart medalist from the Pacific, he was a veteran, not guys like me.

Response by SPC Ted Maltzie made Jun 25 at 2017 9:00 PM

SPC Ted Maltzie — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 21:00:10 -0400

Anyone that raises their hand and swears the oath of enlistment, to me, is a Veteran. (Discounting DD) That said, there are levels of Veteran, like most have pointed out. Combat Vets, NG, Reserves, deployed, not deployed, Vietnam era Cold War era, WWII, Korea, The sandbox in all it's incantations.... We are ALL Veterans. How the government divvies up benefits has no bearing on the brotherhood.

Response by SMSgt Barney Brown made Jun 25 at 2017 9:05 PM

SMSgt Barney Brown — Sun, 25 Jun 2017 21:05:51 -0400

A veteras is a person that served honorably and was discharged

Response by PFC Victor Medberry made Jun 26 at 2017 6:32 AM

PFC Victor Medberry — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 06:32:40 -0400

My service was 2 years active duty 4 years unassigned inactive duty with 2 summer camps. No combat but never the less We had to be combat ready. Does that make me a vet? I think so.

Response by Robert Moritz made Jun 26 at 2017 1:57 PM

Robert Moritz — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 13:57:34 -0400

I joined Navy 1988. I took the oath then and stand by it till I die. However I was medically discharged due to hearing complications. I have my DD-214 but no benefits because I only spent a total of 9 weeks in. I was told I had to do at least 180 days for any. Thought they should've a least let me have my dog tags.

Response by SGT Dale Polhemus made Jun 26 at 2017 2:05 PM

SGT Dale Polhemus — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 14:05:58 -0400

Mant times over the years since I got out,an awful lot of combat veterans told me straight up that they do not consider me a vet. All because I did not see a shot fired in anger. Vietnam was over in'75,i went in the Army in '76 and got out in '82. 18 months with the 101st Abn Div. then 12 months in the 2nd Inf. Div. Last duty station was Ft. Lost-in-the-woods. We non-combatants are NOT looking for glory or special recognition;i personally don't want it. I do however, have great reservations about those that do NOT complete their obligation. Medical discharges are a different matter. Say what you want,but I feel that I am a veteran.

Response by SPC Kraig Jackson made Jun 26 at 2017 2:18 PM

SPC Kraig Jackson — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 14:18:32 -0400

I thought that you had to serve 180 days outside of bootcamp and honorable discharge to be considered a veteran. At least that is what the VA told me when i got out after 5 years.

Response by CWO4 William Craig made Jun 26 at 2017 2:36 PM

CWO4 William Craig — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 14:36:56 -0400

Completion of Boot Camp

Response by SFC Scott Mein made Jun 26 at 2017 7:32 PM

SFC Scott Mein — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 19:32:06 -0400

Wow! I have read a lot of these posts. I'm not impressed to say the least. We have 22 brothers and sisters committing suicide a day and every one is worried about what classifies you as a Veteran! Really! How about this question: " How the hell do we stop our brothers and sisters from killing themselves?" Everyone knows so much, how about answering that question!

Response by PFC Kenneth Landert made Jun 27 at 2017 3:49 AM

PFC Kenneth Landert — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 03:49:17 -0400

Let me make this clear. I served on the CRP I was an instant reactionary force, I was the first guy into the complexes. One day as I bust in, I was smashed in the face with a baseball bat, I was air vaced to Ft. Sam Houston. I received a medal for my actions. I was washed from the service for unable to conform, by officer's and NCO's from the vietnam era, That's right the vietnam era they were over 50 yrs old. They couldn't make a 3 mile run if they had too. So don't give me this bullshit that the service is fair. It's a riogged game

Response by CN Brent Rohm made Jun 27 at 2017 9:37 AM

CN Brent Rohm — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 09:37:02 -0400

2 years at least.

Response by SSG Ayla Soltren made Jun 27 at 2017 11:14 AM

SSG Ayla Soltren — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 11:14:51 -0400

It's minimum of 3 years. If your discharged before then you do not receive veteran benefits.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2017 11:59 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 11:59:07 -0400

I feel like if you make the commitment, take the oath and live the Seven Army Values, or whatever the other services live by, then you should be considered a VET. A lot of brave men and women have served over the years. Right now 7.3 percent of living Americans have served That's not a lot when you think about the population of the USA and basically the world. When the stuff hits the fan, who do they call.......not Ghostbusters. So that's a small amount of people to protect the USA and world. I am proud to say I serve. I am proud to say I still serve. I became a recruiter for the simple fact that I wanted help a young adult the same way my recruiter helped me. I want to keep the military strong. If it wasn't for the military I would have my Bachelor's Degree and working on my Master's. So if you do join or have served, don't just work for the military, let me military work for you. So if you make the commitment, take the oath, and do what's right during your military career, no matter how long you serve, you should be considered a VET and always a member of the family.

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Jun 27 at 2017 4:15 PM

SSgt Michael Cox — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 16:15:55 -0400

See my post below for the different laws.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2017 4:47 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 16:47:11 -0400

In spite of what qualifies you for veteran's benefits, my practical answer is this: if you completed basic, tech school (AIT/A School), and at least two years of your first term of service, and left honorably, I would consider you a vet and show you all due respect. Boot and school, and some significant time doing what you were trained to do is a must in my book. The first six months to a year out of tech school is really OJT. It is not service, but additional learning time. Less than two years in and you are not a veteran who served -- you are someone who was partially trained by the military. All take and no give at that point.

I don't think saying the "first full term" is appropriate because first term lengths vary from 2-6 years. I wouldn't look down on a person who completed 5 years of a 6 year first term, and then applaud the person who completed only a 2-year first term.

I don't consider medicals, humanitarians, less-than-honorable, etc., with less than two years in to be vets, despite their most noble intentions. I consider them patriots who attempted to serve but were not able to. Just like I don't look down on my son who cannot serve (diabetic), because I think he would if he were allowed to.

Dishonorables, in general, to me means that you threw away any honorable service you had and thus, I don't think of them as vets either.

Finally, I draw no distinction between guard/reserve vets and active duty vets. Complete your assigned training, serve your time, and you've earned the label vet in my book.

Response by Sgt Bill Pyper made Jun 27 at 2017 5:04 PM

Sgt Bill Pyper — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 17:04:17 -0400

Honorable completion of whatever enlistment they agreed to unless discharged for injury or sickness (including mental).

Response by A1C Vernon Bal made Jun 27 at 2017 6:05 PM

A1C Vernon Bal — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 18:05:27 -0400

completion of first tour

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2017 10:52 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 22:52:07 -0400

To be clear, if you are in rotc or one of the service academies AND you're non-prior service, if you are in dep, or if you live in southern california and play dress up with those cheesedicks from "usvjsc", you are NOT a veteran.

Response by FN Jim Wilkinson made Jun 27 at 2017 11:06 PM

FN Jim Wilkinson — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 23:06:43 -0400

If you got out with anything other than dishonorable

Response by CPO Lia Klimesh made Jun 28 at 2017 6:48 AM

CPO Lia Klimesh — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 06:48:17 -0400

It isn't necessary "time" that qualifies you as a veteran, it is the discharge condition from service that qualifies you a veteran. At least legally, which I'm not sure is the actual argument here. In order for your service time to count you must possess a DD-214 stating the condition of service upon time of discharge. This is hugely important, as it is the gateway to receiving the VA benefits and federal benefits that "veterans" are entitled to. If you are dishonorably discharged, you still may consider yourself a veteran, and in many minds, will be considered so, however, in the eyes of the government (who will decide whether or not your service was appropriately served) you will not be entitled to VA benefits and other miscellaneous benefits that a person who has been honorably discharged would receive. Medical discharge is different, but based on the same principles. If you are disabled by the military, you will receive medical care, but everything else is still determined by the condition of your discharge.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2017 9:33 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 09:33:14 -0400

I am a veteran, 10 years in the infantry, all but training was spent in the Illinois Army Guard. I don't make a big deal out of it, 1986-1996 were not hotbeds of wartime since we disn't deploy to Iraq/Kuait. I have never claimed combat experience, or anything I haven't actually done, but I did serve. I know people who say that I'm not a 'real veteran', ironic though that none of them actually wore the uniform....

Response by LTC John Wilson made Jun 28 at 2017 1:50 PM

LTC John Wilson — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 13:50:31 -0400

180 days of active honorable service and you are a veteran. At least that was what it was when I was in the Army and when I retired in 2004 with 33 years. Dishonorable discharge and you don't get any benefits of any kind, request for early separation due to medical are other options.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2017 2:03 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 14:03:34 -0400

I believe that after your first tour of honorable enlistment

Response by CWO4 Jim Doran made Jun 28 at 2017 3:56 PM

CWO4 Jim Doran — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 15:56:48 -0400

In order to be considered a veteran, according to Federal statute, you must have served 24 months on active duty. If you enlisted during or prior to the Vietnam War it's 180 days. Exceptions are Purple Heart, CIB (USA), CMB (ALL), CAB (USA), CAR(USN/USMC/USCG), CAM (USAF), CAC (USN/USMC), or any medal awarded for Valor. However, for non-VA purposes I also consider reserves and the Guard as vets. They signed up, they carry the ID card and draw the pay, because they didn't spend 24 months on active duty was NOT their decision, it was SECDEFs decision.

Response by SrA Jeff Henderson made Jun 28 at 2017 5:13 PM

SrA Jeff Henderson — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 17:13:10 -0400

180 days of "active" duty. with anything other than Dishonorable.

Response by Sgt Gary Chaney made Jun 28 at 2017 10:07 PM

Sgt Gary Chaney — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 22:07:31 -0400

First enlistment

Response by CPL Michael Dami made Jun 29 at 2017 3:37 AM

CPL Michael Dami — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 03:37:18 -0400

i think 2 yrs unless you have a medical or family issue

Response by SPC Randy Webb made Jun 29 at 2017 7:15 AM

SPC Randy Webb — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 07:15:19 -0400

good question, and many good responses ... sadly when you leave the service and try to join various military oriented groups (local VFW or American Legion Post), you will find a great many close minded and off putting individuals/policies. I served 4 years active Honorably discharged ect ect ect.. but because when I wrote that check and committed 4 years of my life (possibly more) and the dates of service were exactly 2 months before and 6 month after this event or that event my service does not qualify me as a "member" ...I am at best a second class person in these organizations. I can join as a "sons of" under my father/grandfathers service but my service is somehow deemed not worthy ....talk about anger.

Response by Sgt John Hopkins made Jun 29 at 2017 2:35 PM

Sgt John Hopkins — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 14:35:57 -0400

If you serve and are discharged for other than dishonorable reasons you are a veteran and I thank you for your service.

Response by MAJ Walter Olson made Jun 29 at 2017 2:57 PM

MAJ Walter Olson — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 14:57:44 -0400

A complete tour of duty (2 yrs. min) if not in war zone, if in war zone, a minimum of 30 days if not in a fire fight, if in a fire fight, 1 second!

Response by PO2 Gerry Roberson Sr. made Jun 29 at 2017 7:48 PM

PO2 Gerry Roberson Sr. — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 19:48:26 -0400

The minimum authorized enlistment hitch or death, grievous purple heart situation, or chronic hard illness.

Response by SPC Thomas Jaeger made Jun 29 at 2017 8:25 PM

SPC Thomas Jaeger — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 20:25:56 -0400

If you served and received an honorable discharge then you are a veteran.

Response by SSG Loran Trigger made Jun 29 at 2017 8:30 PM

SSG Loran Trigger — Thu, 29 Jun 2017 20:30:16 -0400

6yrs

Response by SGT Darryl Dykes made Jun 30 at 2017 12:27 AM

SGT Darryl Dykes — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 00:27:24 -0400

VA defines a veteran as " For the purposes of VA health benefits and services, a person who served in the active military service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable is a Veteran."

Response by SSgt Lauren Walker made Jun 30 at 2017 12:37 AM

SSgt Lauren Walker — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 00:37:23 -0400

Completion of boot camp. Though I'm hard pressed to think more of a person's service if they actually went to a combat zone.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 30 at 2017 9:21 AM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 09:21:17 -0400

A Veteran is anyone who signed their name on the dotted line and completed their training and made it far enough to figure out they fucked up but kept going anyways and didnt get kicked out for some stupid shit like smoking dope or abandoning their post.

Response by LTC John Wilson made Jul 1 at 2017 9:08 AM

LTC John Wilson — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 09:08:02 -0400

hey Folks,
I don't care if you are Active Army, Reserve, or National Guard, same for other branches, you serve honorably and get an honorable discharge you are a Veteran pure and simple. There are lots of regs giving different meanings out there, but they are not all grounding on the Honorable, general, Discharge. Welcome all my honorable brothers and sisters who have served and deserve to be called a veteran of the greatest Nation in the world.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 1 at 2017 10:06 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 10:06:18 -0400

Philosophically or legally?
Legally, there is the 180 day mark. Philosophically, I like that different organizations put their own stamp on Veteran status, that is their right as a private organization.
In reality, that confuses a lot of people.

Response by A1C Carl Wetzel made Jul 1 at 2017 12:08 PM

A1C Carl Wetzel — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 12:08:11 -0400

Cold War Veteran. Served, active and reserve time, honorable discharge. Decorated peace or war, no difference. Honorable service doing a job and doing it well as per oath. No one has the right to limit Veteran designation to special circumstances. Look it up.

Response by CPO Brian Cole made Jul 1 at 2017 1:05 PM

CPO Brian Cole — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 13:05:04 -0400

Know an individual. Spent aprox 10 months in the Army. Over half that time, he was UA. Seperated at the convenience of the government. Runs around screaming veteran. I said, where I'm from, that's called a coward, not a veteran.

Response by PO3 Daniel Buckmaster made Jul 1 at 2017 2:28 PM

PO3 Daniel Buckmaster — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 14:28:31 -0400

following.

Response by PFC Phillip Lord made Jul 1 at 2017 6:13 PM

PFC Phillip Lord — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 18:13:35 -0400

P91B10 Medical Spec 00 YRS 11 mos Oct 13 1981 -Jan.28 1983 Med SPEC 6 weeks (82) Type of Separation RETIREMENT Character of Service HONORABLE Separation authority Title 10 USC Sec 1202 Separation code SFK Narrative reason for separation Physical Disability Temporary Say what ever you want,feel how ever you do. I have been a DAV for 35 years and never saw combat.

Response by CMC Keith Livingstone made Jul 1 at 2017 6:34 PM

CMC Keith Livingstone — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 18:34:06 -0400

Really?

Response by CW4 Charles Booker Jr made Jul 1 at 2017 7:49 PM

CW4 Charles Booker Jr — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 19:49:37 -0400

21 years

Response by PO3 Harold Brown made Jul 1 at 2017 9:08 PM

PO3 Harold Brown — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 21:08:15 -0400

4 yrs 1 month served,qualified submarine 3 yrs USS Sea Cat SS-399

Response by PO3 Susan Higgins made Jul 1 at 2017 10:16 PM

PO3 Susan Higgins — Sat, 01 Jul 2017 22:16:26 -0400

If you serve 24 consecutive months and discharge with honorable conditions you have VAbenefits..... but to me if you finish at least your first full 4 year commitment with honorable discharge THEN YOU ARE A VETERAN!!!!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2017 12:10 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 00:10:49 -0400

180 DAYS

Response by Pvt Cameron Lawrence made Jul 2 at 2017 12:11 AM

Pvt Cameron Lawrence — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 00:11:32 -0400

I say the second you graduate you're a veteran

Response by Sgt Steve Houde made Jul 2 at 2017 3:44 AM

Sgt Steve Houde — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 03:44:45 -0400

Completion of one enlistment term.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2017 6:26 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 06:26:20 -0400

As an active duty solider, it doesn't matter how many years you serve honorable discharge or even retiring from the service. Every single person who raised their right hand are consider veterans. That's all I can say.

Response by PO2 Harry Hollingsworth made Jul 2 at 2017 8:06 AM

PO2 Harry Hollingsworth — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 08:06:16 -0400

100% DAV

Response by PO1 Aaron Baum made Jul 2 at 2017 1:16 PM

PO1 Aaron Baum — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 13:16:17 -0400

Depends on reason for separation.. less than a year if injured. I guess I look more at type of discharge.

Response by Cpl Jack Irwin made Jul 2 at 2017 1:33 PM

Cpl Jack Irwin — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 13:33:23 -0400

That is a good question. I served in the Marine Corp Reserve for 6 years, made PFC out of boot camp and received an honorable discharge in 1976. I was never deployed but l still love my country. So am l a veteran or just someone who served in the reserve?

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2017 2:56 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 14:56:58 -0400

One day of active duty, other than for training, either still serving or discharged under honorable conditions.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 2 at 2017 3:16 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 15:16:26 -0400

I did funeral honors for a retired reserve Master Chief. Other than his annual trainings, he had no active duty so no DD214. His poor family were struggling to find proof he deserved funeral honors. He received a retirement check for heaven sake! Rule use to be 180 days to get a DD214 but they recently changed that due to the reserves and folks getting screwed.

Response by Cpl Glenn Portwood made Jul 2 at 2017 4:43 PM

Cpl Glenn Portwood — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 16:43:32 -0400

I consider anyone who completed boot camp and who is later discharged with any discharge other than dishonorable

Response by SSG Chad Spawr made Jul 2 at 2017 5:48 PM

SSG Chad Spawr — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 17:48:48 -0400

Title 38 is the definition. Anything is just SWAG without bases in fact. Nobody cares about uninformed opinion or what "YOU" consider to be the definition.

Response by SSG David Jerkins made Jul 2 at 2017 6:00 PM

SSG David Jerkins — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 18:00:49 -0400

Your Time Of ... SERVICE ... Is What Separates Veterans From Civilians :-) ... Our Experiences Are Highly Valued ... Because They Are Highly Earned !!! Those OUTSIDE Our Community ... Will Never Understand ... Until The Say The Words ... Live The Life ... An Serve With Honor !!! ... Our Code Transcends ... COLOR ... RACE .... SEX ... SOCIAL STATUS .... EVEN OUR LIVES Which Are Committed To A HIGHER CALLING !!! :-)

Response by PO3 Ian Favata made Jul 2 at 2017 8:29 PM

PO3 Ian Favata — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 20:29:47 -0400

If you don't complete basic training and the requisite skills in a job description for which you signed for, and were never assigned a duty station and actually did your duty, you are not a veteran. I did six years active and got an honorable discharge. Veteran.

Response by PO3 Ian Favata made Jul 2 at 2017 8:46 PM

PO3 Ian Favata — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 20:46:29 -0400

Also, I joined the Navy with a high school chum (chump) on the so called "buddy system" and two days into basic in San Diego the loser and I are stenciling our uniforms whilst being yelled at, and he looks at me and says I can't do this. What a pussy! You can't handle people being mean to you for a good reason? Really? He starts complaining his knee hurts and ends up getting a medical discharge! I'm sorry, he's not a veteran! Those of you that subscribe to the ridiculous notion anyone who served one day and was not discharged honorably need to get your head examined.

Response by SGT Daniel Martinez made Jul 2 at 2017 8:48 PM

SGT Daniel Martinez — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 20:48:17 -0400

When I enlisted in the Air Force in 1972, the requirement was 90 days of honorable service. I,am not sure when the requirement was raised to 180 days. Could someone please enlighten me?

Response by PO3 Larry Moore made Jul 2 at 2017 8:49 PM

PO3 Larry Moore — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 20:49:45 -0400

I am a USN veteran, served '66-'70, Vietnam Veteran. In my opinion, anyone who has a DD-214, and honorably discharged, qualifies as a Veteran. Time served can be affected by any number of circumstances, but while serving, all are subject to putting their life on the line. All personnel regardless of rank or job while serving, are part of the same team, and have one goal, and that is to make the Armed Forces of the USA, the best in the world.

Response by TSgt David Peedin made Jul 2 at 2017 10:43 PM

TSgt David Peedin — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 22:43:55 -0400

To be considered a veteran, a member should have to complete the first enlistment, unless released for valid medical reasons. A person should be disqualified for dishonorable discharge or failing to complete the first enlistment

Response by SFC John Ellison made Jul 2 at 2017 10:46 PM

SFC John Ellison — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 22:46:35 -0400

any as long as you served over war time

Response by SFC Charles Woods made Jul 3 at 2017 5:01 AM

SFC Charles Woods — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 05:01:02 -0400

Joined Army in Jan 1957,served until Dec 1959,early release for Christmas.Assigned to inactive reserve.Rejoined Army in Mar 1961,served until 1 June 1979.Then I retired.Was I considered a Vet after my first enlistment? Honorable all the way.I rejoined Army later, retired in 1979.I too tried to join VFW back in the 1980's was told that my service in RVN did not count for membership.In 2016 I got a letter from the same VFW post saying that my servece in RVN qualify me for membership in the local VFW. I did not respond.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2017 11:39 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 11:39:16 -0400

3yrs active/7yrs,Az Guard

Response by PO2 Bryan Scheel made Jul 3 at 2017 12:52 PM

PO2 Bryan Scheel — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 12:52:21 -0400

Enlisted 1972 in the 4X10 program (Basic, A school, military training then 6 years reserve, no veterans benefits) served 7 years. Questioned whether I could stand up as a veteran. Retired officer told me the day I singed I put a target on my back for our country. I served my time honorably, I'm a veteran! Proudly stood ever since.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2017 1:28 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 13:28:21 -0400

I ship out to boot camp in 3 months. United States Army National Gaurd. In my eyes, you are a veteran when you complete bootcamp and schooling after. You have made a commitment that only 1 percent of United States population has done. I don't care if you have never been deployed or not.

Response by PO2 Brian Gee made Jul 3 at 2017 4:09 PM

PO2 Brian Gee — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 16:09:23 -0400

I served 6 years active duty because of nuclear training. I also have a serice related illness that has me using a wheelchair, not able to drive, nor am I able to work. The chiefs in my office, including a Master Chief, a Senior Chief, and two Chiefs, who told the Chief doing re-ups not to talk to me. They wanted me to get my degree, and the HTC told me that if I did re-up they would have brought behind the tool shed and beat some sense into me.

Response by PO2 Jeremy Henry made Jul 3 at 2017 8:02 PM

PO2 Jeremy Henry — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 20:02:01 -0400

Dishonorable discharge

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 3 at 2017 9:53 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 21:53:13 -0400

There is no set amount of time. If you were sworn in and served, you are a veteran when you leave, for whatever reason. How you leave (honorable, dishonorable...) has no bearing on your status.

Response by CPL Ralph Moschler made Jul 3 at 2017 9:58 PM

CPL Ralph Moschler — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 21:58:59 -0400

This one I don't know , to me you need to complete your first enlistment , unless you get hurt

Response by CPL Ralph Moschler made Jul 3 at 2017 10:02 PM

CPL Ralph Moschler — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 22:02:02 -0400

Amen

Response by SrA Joey Adams made Jul 3 at 2017 10:50 PM

SrA Joey Adams — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 22:50:30 -0400

I believe if you completed your Basic/Tech and served after that then yeah. If you couldn't make it out of Basic or Tech (AIT I think for you Army guys) for anything other than medical then no

Response by LTC Robert Hodges made Jul 4 at 2017 1:10 AM

LTC Robert Hodges — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 01:10:06 -0400

One year

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2017 11:48 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 11:48:10 -0400

You earned your title in boot camp. Once you graduate you're considered a Sailor, Marine, Soldier, Airman. At any point in time you get out, you're a veteran. It doesn't matter how long you served.

Response by SSgt Julius Bob Midgett made Jul 4 at 2017 1:01 PM

SSgt Julius Bob Midgett — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 13:01:52 -0400

As I recall it takes 180 days of active duty to qualify as
A veteran

Response by CPL David Farmer made Jul 4 at 2017 1:28 PM

CPL David Farmer — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 13:28:41 -0400

Your not a veteran unless you were honorably discharged

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2017 4:38 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 16:38:43 -0400

I'm probably a little more conservative... If your boots left US soil in service...

Response by SFC Ssg Sabin made Jul 4 at 2017 5:42 PM

SFC Ssg Sabin — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 17:42:00 -0400

A Veteran is one who has served in combat, or a combat zone. This topic began to surface toward the end of 'Nam. Many who served during the time period of hostilities in the RSVN, but not in the combat zone, wanted some kind of recognition just for doing their job during a war, so they came up with the phrase "Vietnam ERA Veteran". That new phrase would stick and eventually apply to anyone who served anywhere whether or not they had boots on the ground in that stink'n, rotten, snake infested, mud hole of a trash dump called 'Nam. So the repo-depo commandos would get the same benefits as those who served in the mud and blood in-country. Now if the individual was injured, lets' say by typing to fast and telling war stories at the same time, then by all means, let him have some benefits to take care of the trauma suffered, and include any bystanders that may have been traumatized by witnessing such a horrific event.

But just because a person served during the time of war, and shoveled shit in Louisiana, call them a Vet? I don't think so! Give them the same bennies as a Combat Veteran or one who served in the Zone? Ahhhhh, no. You gotta give credit where credit is do, and time served should not be the deciding factor used to establish qualification as as "Veteran".

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2017 6:45 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 18:45:35 -0400

Your time in service that you have deployed to a combat zone.

Response by CPO Lee Payne made Jul 4 at 2017 7:47 PM

CPO Lee Payne — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 19:47:21 -0400

181 days and honorably separated

Response by LTC J Moran made Jul 4 at 2017 8:27 PM

LTC J Moran — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 20:27:55 -0400

This is actually an interesting question. There are people that receive treatment and compensation from the VA that were hurt in basic training or AIT. They served and got hurt. The VA takes care of them.

Response by AN Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 4 at 2017 9:15 PM

AN Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 21:15:18 -0400

Youre only a veteran if youve been deployed.

Response by Cpl Lawrence R. Weston made Jul 4 at 2017 9:33 PM

Cpl Lawrence R. Weston — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 21:33:13 -0400

In my day two year enlistment were common.69/72

Response by PO1 Joseph Feldhaus made Jul 4 at 2017 9:38 PM

PO1 Joseph Feldhaus — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 21:38:16 -0400

Veterans status should require an action or campaign ribbon. If you haven't been in theater, you are not a veteran of foreign wars. If all you did was train, and never served your purpose, you didn't really serve.

Response by Peter Dall made Jul 4 at 2017 10:56 PM

Peter Dall — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 22:56:31 -0400

My opinion does not matter, but if you dropped out of boot camp for any reason other than a serious health issue I do not consider you a veteran.

Response by PO1 Joe Chase made Jul 5 at 2017 12:15 AM

PO1 Joe Chase — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 00:15:36 -0400

I say honestly you must have completed at least one full enlistment. Most of us are on our 3-4th enlistment now or more, yeah we're Veterans, and yeah we've earned that title! You can't tell me you made it through boot camp or basic training then got disqualified for one reason or another, and don't try telling me how you were selected for a certain spec ops program but got shut down because of your vision, ankle, or back. All these things are nonsense, you had to have served a minimum 4-6 year enlistment, then honorably discharged, key word Honorably. Come on people, there's no honor in bullcrapping me, it's just as honorable to say you hadn't had the opportunity to serve, or missed your chance, but thank me and my brothers and sisters for serving. I'd say no problem, and move on smartly.

Response by PFC Michael Wright made Jul 5 at 2017 5:46 AM

PFC Michael Wright — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 05:46:56 -0400

I don't think there should be a set number of days in to be a vet. your duty station should not matter. the only diffrence I see between any vet's is combat - non combat vet. while I served during the first gulf war on a us base. I see my self as a vet. I did my job. but I do not see my self as a combat or vfw. I do think the number is 180 days of active duty tho. that may have changed. other then that if your dd214 says you got an honorable discharge you are a full vet to me. you did your time and deserve all the benefits their of.

Response by CCMSgt James Helms made Jul 5 at 2017 11:00 AM

CCMSgt James Helms — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 11:00:26 -0400

Actually, this is a very good question. I believe the requirement of at least 21 consecutive days of active duty and received other than a dishonorable discharge, you are classified for some military veteran benefits. If you completed your enlistment contract (which is four years in most branches, you are eligible for all benefits other than retirement which generally requires 20 years of service (if you were medically separated you will receive most of the retirement benefits). NOTE: If you completed your normal enlistment commitment, you are eligible for treatment for any military connected medical conditions (this includes hearing loss, Agent Orange, etc. The best way to get educated on your non-retired status benefits is to make an appointment with your local VA clinic.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2017 12:05 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 12:05:30 -0400

I consider a veteran to be an individual who has successfully graduated AIT/OSUT and has served during wartime.

Response by PFC Jon Crane made Jul 5 at 2017 4:22 PM

PFC Jon Crane — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 16:22:48 -0400

180 days at least.

Response by MAJ Raymond Haynes made Jul 5 at 2017 6:41 PM

MAJ Raymond Haynes — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 18:41:16 -0400

One Day after Boot Camp

Response by LTJG Michael Leslie made Jul 6 at 2017 4:55 PM

LTJG Michael Leslie — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 16:55:35 -0400

It may be simple but could you explain "deployed" and also explain what benefits a deployed veteran gets that a non deployed doesn't ???

PLEASE EXPLAIN IN DETAIL !!!

Response by PO1 Chad Alcock made Jul 6 at 2017 7:51 PM

PO1 Chad Alcock — Thu, 06 Jul 2017 19:51:51 -0400

Depends on whose definition we are using. Some programs, one day of active duty qualifies you, some it's 181+ and there may be others. It's a loaded question. I know for the program I work for, to be eligible for services, you need to have 181 or more days of active duty, unless you have a service connected disability rating. Also to be considered a veteran for our purposes (NG and Reserves) you would have to have deployed under Title 10 or Title 32 orders. But in my book if you were in the NG or Reserves and didn't deploy, you still put yourself out there, signed the paper willing to put your life on the line. It isn't necessarily your fault that you didn't deploy. But I still have to tell you that, by law, you don't qualify for my services.

Response by MAJ Deanna Sinclair-Parker made Jul 13 at 2017 3:25 PM

MAJ Deanna Sinclair-Parker — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 15:25:58 -0400

My husband served 25 years in the MI NG, 10 years in the Army Reserves, started as a Private, retired as a COL. Unfortunately/(and fortunately) he was never required to mobilize. :) The government told him he is not a veteran, until recently!! However, he get NO veteran benefits!

I served 3.5 years Active duty, then 20 years in the Guard and Reserve. I am a veteran, disabled and get benefits.
Explain that!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2017 7:34 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 19:34:12 -0400

so if you served in the National Guard, completing your basic training and AIT training and went back to serve in your State while meeting 2days of weekends and 14 days of training a year as a unit Are you saying that we are not considered Veterans? Because we did not see active duty and do not qualify for active duty veteran's benefits? If we are not veteran's than what are we fools who wanted to play army? I think we deserve to be called Veterans regardless if we saw active duty or not Because if we were called to active duty, Do you think we had the choice of not participating if we were called? I know I would have gone and so would our unit would have proudly gone too

Response by CW3 Fernando Baca made Jul 14 at 2017 12:01 AM

CW3 Fernando Baca — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 00:01:23 -0400

My son is now my Brother in arms. Mi jito, Son, CPL BACA Ruperto and Roop: Baca family of six You are my very own WARRIOR we love you.

Response by A1C Sherry Robinson made Jul 15 at 2017 3:13 AM

A1C Sherry Robinson — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 03:13:08 -0400

180 days

Response by SN Ryan Mraz made Jul 29 at 2017 11:06 PM

SN Ryan Mraz — Sat, 29 Jul 2017 23:06:50 -0400

i believe there are so many confusing replies to this... i would say personally i believe its either two years, or completion of first deployment.... unless separated for an injury or other medical reason,
with honorable conditions.

Response by Cpl Jack Irwin made Aug 4 at 2017 4:12 PM

Cpl Jack Irwin — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 16:12:41 -0400

I served 6 years in the Marine Corp Reserve and received an honorable discharge in 1976. I served 183 days on active duty for training but l am not considered a veteran. The wording states that you have to serve over 180 days of active duty other than training. So those of us that fit in this category get no benefits, which is ok with me, but what are we called? I see no reason why there is not two classifications. Veteran and Combat Veteran. What do you think?

Response by Cpl Gary Ellis made Aug 26 at 2017 11:42 AM

Cpl Gary Ellis — Sat, 26 Aug 2017 11:42:29 -0400

In 1971 I served 1 month an 20 days in the us navy an was discharged because of medical condition(no rateing) am I considered a navy veteran?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2017 8:46 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 08:46:35 -0500

I have a similar military career as your friend. Honorable discharge completed 8 year enlistment but never deployed. The reason I entered this site initially is because I wasn’t sure if I am even considered a Veteran. I am proud to have served and honorably completed my assigned duty enlistment time as a Army Reserve and part-timer. But I don’t confuse my time with those who served as Full timers. Thank You to all that serve.

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Jan 8 at 2018 9:20 AM

PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 09:20:05 -0500

This has been beat to death, numerous times over. I have read everyone's opinions and most everyone is stating opinions and not facts. I am sure that everyone has seen the post that has gone around that says a Veteran is someone that at sometime in their life has written a check to the Republic for any amount up to and including their life.
This is more that just a nice saying to imprint on a T shirt, IT IS FACT! and it is just that Simple. When someone raises their hand and takes that oath of enlistment, You signed that check. Your next step is to learn your job and that starts at Basic. Whether you finish or not, YOU ARE A VETERAN BECAUSE YOU SIGNED THAT CHECK! Some people are injured in basic, some people die in basic. When they die they are sent home in Uniform, given full military honors if requested, and the Flag is over their Coffin. There is no special number of days no magic wand that the Brigade commander waves over you. Whether those with hash marks to the floor like it or not, it does not change the FACT that after a person says the OATH OF ENLISTMENT, they are basically a VET at that point. Live with it!

Response by Pvt Thomas Rodriguez made Feb 19 at 2018 9:36 AM

Pvt Thomas Rodriguez — Mon, 19 Feb 2018 09:36:31 -0500

am I a veteran if I served in the marines for 172 days got honorable discharge (medical)?

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2018 7:04 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Mar 2018 19:04:49 -0500

Ronald Reagan changed it while he was in office I believe anyone who serves in the Army national guard or Reserve should get the same treatment. I spent 12.5byrs in the Guard and got an honorable discharge I would have gladly fought in any war if called upon but yet I can't get nothing but a home loans. UGH

Response by CW3 Lysle Seelig made May 2 at 2018 4:27 PM

CW3 Lysle Seelig — Wed, 02 May 2018 16:27:43 -0400

180 days active duty, honorable discharge.

Response by PO1 Dan Kloss made May 15 at 2018 4:26 PM

PO1 Dan Kloss — Tue, 15 May 2018 16:26:12 -0400

At least your contract tour...2, 4, 6, 8 years...

Response by SP5 Jeff Karpen made May 15 at 2018 4:39 PM

SP5 Jeff Karpen — Tue, 15 May 2018 16:39:29 -0400

If you took the oath and served honorably, you are a veteran. The armed forces gives you your MOS then you go where they send or deploy you to. As long as you get the Discharge and it says honorable, you are Veteran

Response by CPL Jimmy Hopper made May 15 at 2018 4:52 PM

CPL Jimmy Hopper — Tue, 15 May 2018 16:52:58 -0400

Until BCT(or equivalent) graduation you are a trainee. After that I’ll agree to veteran status. Combat veteran is a different story.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2018 6:27 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 May 2018 18:27:52 -0400

Lol

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2018 6:47 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 May 2018 18:47:36 -0400

You are a veteran of you saw combat if you didn't then you are retired.ill be retired when I get out I thought I would have deployed by now but I didn't get that lucky.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2018 7:45 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 May 2018 19:45:01 -0400

I think that whether it’s mentally, physically, or emotionally the military is a tough job to have at given times. If you finish what you started, no matter how long you volunteered for, you deserve the title of A Veteran. I have seen people booted out in less than a year for refusing to pass their PT test and then reaping all the amazing VA benefits. And people there are so many benefits. That, disgusts me. I think we tend to be a bit too generous when discharging the “failure to conform” militants. My opinion.

Response by Cpl Norm Turner made May 15 at 2018 8:19 PM

Cpl Norm Turner — Tue, 15 May 2018 20:19:18 -0400

All service is honorable, unless you were discharged less than honorable, sometimes even then. I knew people who served in combat honorably, then got a bad discharge because they couldn't take the peacetime Marine Corps.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2018 9:28 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 May 2018 09:28:21 -0400

I have been in the national guard for 3 years. If you ask me if someone signs that dotted line and raises there right hand and passes training amd earns there title and is willing to lose everything up to his or hers own life then they classify as a veteren whether you are active guard or reserve we all wear the same uniform for the same team. We all are willing to fight for this country. God bless America

Response by CPL Lee Cain made May 16 at 2018 10:09 AM

CPL Lee Cain — Wed, 16 May 2018 10:09:29 -0400

Is your discharge anything but dishonorable? If yes is the answer... bam you’re a veteran. Please stop folks Audie Murphy none of us are, and we would ALL benefit from remembering that.

Response by PO1 Julie Ann made May 16 at 2018 11:10 AM

PO1 Julie Ann — Wed, 16 May 2018 11:10:14 -0400

I think the people who cannot hack the military and are administratively doscharged(OTH or DH) prior to reporting to their first duty station should not be referred to as veterans. This is a title which is earned and comes with many accolades and privileges in both the civilian and military sectors. If you lose you veteran’s benefits in 6 months or less, then you should absolutely lose the veteran status.

Response by Sgt Chuck Perry made May 16 at 2018 11:24 AM

Sgt Chuck Perry — Wed, 16 May 2018 11:24:49 -0400

Personally, if you get hurt in boot, severely enough to get discharged, you are still a vet. If you quit, you are not. If you’re dishonorably discharged for something stupid or highly illegal, then you should not retain the title.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2018 11:29 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 May 2018 11:29:55 -0400

I believe if you make it through bootcamp you would have earned veteran status,Ive been in 4 years and am being medically seperated(blown out knees) bit so very few sign their name and follow through, they were willing to leave everything behind to serve this great land.... In my opinion they then deserve it.

Response by 1SG Steven Hill made May 16 at 2018 1:54 PM

1SG Steven Hill — Wed, 16 May 2018 13:54:43 -0400

Well 31 years , mostly Guard with a little side trip to The Big Sand Box during DS , but the last time I checked everyone's blood is red

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2018 2:44 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 May 2018 14:44:07 -0400

I'd shoot to say at least two years of service. Any less and you open it up to shit bags and shammers. Whilst still being realistic that good soldiers get shafted because they have "unpopular opinions" or they "hurt my feelings" seriously I've seen too many people get kicked out for that and it's ridiculous.

Response by PFC David Shires made May 16 at 2018 3:45 PM

PFC David Shires — Wed, 16 May 2018 15:45:41 -0400

If you graduated basic in the army, and as such are authorized the wearing of the standard black beret, then you are an Army Veteran. I signed up to fight, but they tried to chapter me out for medical reasons. I did boot camp and two different A.I.T's. And then served with my unit here in TX for a few months. I got out with a general under honorable conditions discharge. I am a veteran, but I am NOT A COMBAT VETERAN. I was guard, and since I didn't deploy, I am not able to utilize my post 9/11 g.i. bill.

Response by SP5 Justin Blackard made May 16 at 2018 4:19 PM

SP5 Justin Blackard — Wed, 16 May 2018 16:19:31 -0400

I personally believe you should complete Basic and AIT because that is when you are officially a Soldier, Marine, Airman, or a Sailor. It is the bare minimum to have a purpose in the service so if they wash out before I personally dont consider them a veteran.

Response by SPC Duane Petersen made May 16 at 2018 4:27 PM

SPC Duane Petersen — Wed, 16 May 2018 16:27:03 -0400

To my understanding you have to have 180 consecutive days in service to be a vet and 180 days deployed to be a combat vet however that could be just the army or i could be mistaken all together

Response by SGT Michael Boner made May 16 at 2018 5:29 PM

SGT Michael Boner — Wed, 16 May 2018 17:29:17 -0400

The definition listed previously as title 38 seems to sum it up pretty well to me, but I see why some vets are perturbed by meeting folks who dodged deployments and like to constantly remind people they're a veteran. I never talk about my service unless asked and whenever someone is going on about being a veteran I get suspicious

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made May 16 at 2018 5:45 PM

SSgt Michael Cox — Wed, 16 May 2018 17:45:16 -0400

It’s funny how you gain information the more you work in veteran services. As for the dishonorable discharge that doesn’t even necessarily disqualify you from some services. If you are a combat or combat theater veteran you can still get counseling services from a Veteran Center you can also get counseling if you never deployed but are a reported or non reported military sexual assault survivor.

Response by CPO Sean Harney made May 16 at 2018 7:03 PM

CPO Sean Harney — Wed, 16 May 2018 19:03:36 -0400

And I went through all that login stuff just to read a bunch of arguments? So answer the fuckin question what exactly is ‘‘tis definition of veteran??? Yeah I went at it for 24years but what exactly is the answer.

Response by SFC Floyd Burk made May 16 at 2018 7:17 PM

SFC Floyd Burk — Wed, 16 May 2018 19:17:38 -0400

Any person who served time; wheather it be Active duty, Reserves or National Guard; went through Basic or a Training School; and fulfilled their Contract and served Honorably is a true Veteran; wheather it was 2 years or 30 years.

Response by CPT George Langley made May 16 at 2018 9:56 PM

CPT George Langley — Wed, 16 May 2018 21:56:46 -0400

Late response to your question. Sorry about that. The short answer is you can call yourself a veteran after you leave the service if you were awarded the National Defense Service Medal. That was awarded during specific time periods (https://www.wikiwand.com/en/ National_Defense_Service_Medal) Lots of the answers you got were pure assumption based on individual personal experience, biases, and best guesses. All say you don't have to get shot at to call yourself a veteran. Only that last part is true and it's not anybody's fault or lack of guts if they were not in combat. Of course we would expect anybody who actually was in combat to say combat veteran, and they should.

Wikiwand

Wikiwand is the world's leading Wikipedia reader for web and mobile.

Response by CN Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2018 10:05 PM

CN Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 May 2018 22:05:37 -0400

Have to agree if you served and received honorable discharge would think that would qualify as vet

Response by PO3 Chris Willett made May 16 at 2018 11:09 PM

PO3 Chris Willett — Wed, 16 May 2018 23:09:55 -0400

I served 9 mos 11 days and got medically discharged, once you say the vow and are not discharged for being dumb then welcome to family vet no matter your tis

Response by SSgt Aaron Bouser made May 16 at 2018 11:49 PM

SSgt Aaron Bouser — Wed, 16 May 2018 23:49:59 -0400

Dishonorable discharge takes the title away, but other than that, did you have any active service? Yes? Then you're a veteran. If you were an Army Ranger or a gal in supply, you were both helping to kill the enemy. You can be the baddest bad ass, but if someone doesn't fix your equipment or bring you supplies, you're nothing. It's all a team thing. I know that I personally enjoyed some fine field cooking by military cooks. They maybe weren't enjoying their job (or maybe they were), but I damn sure appreciated them.

Response by Bill Benton made May 16 at 2018 11:56 PM

Bill Benton — Wed, 16 May 2018 23:56:24 -0400

I have always thought that I didn't qualify as a veteran because the training cycle ahead of me deployed to Vietnam and my cycle didn't, I wouldn't even apply for VA benefits for over 40 years until the VA man insisted that I do it. I still have a lot of guilt feelings about this. I also am called a Vietnam ERA vet but I'll never ever say that I'm a Vietnam veteran. I'm now 62 yes old and would go wherever my president wanted me.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2018 12:14 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 May 2018 00:14:43 -0400

Some years back I had lost my job and had to fill out paperwork at the Work One office and one of the questions was do I claim Veteran status? Well the requirements that were on the paper stated that I could only claim Veteran status if I was deployed for 180 consecutive days other than training. Well since I served 6 yrs. Marine Corps Reserves and I myself was never deployed, I couldn't claim Veteran status. I was told that Abraham Lincoln was the one that actually wrote that into law or whatever back when he was in office and it was never ratified. I know I served with Honor and received an Honorable Discharge. Hell my reserve unit was in Kuwait while I was at Parris Island 1990-1991. So I knew where I was going after Tank School. But it was all over by the time I was out of BWT. I still don't know if what Abraham Lincoln supposedly put into play was ever changed or not? Or if the SOB was just blowing smoke up my ass.

Response by CPT Derial Bivens made May 17 at 2018 12:21 AM

CPT Derial Bivens — Thu, 17 May 2018 00:21:51 -0400

Once you join the service, you are there for the taking. Just because a soldier, sailor, airman, or marine, active or reserve, served years without deploying makes him no less a veteran. My cousin's late husband never considered himself a veteran because he got hurt and was "medicaled out" almost immediately upon arrival to his first unit. The fact remains that he volunteered, wanted to do his duty, completed basic and AIT and made himself available for the taking. In my book, the kid that gets hurt in basic training and is out (honorably) before he gets to complete the program is still a veteran. He made himself available for the taking. As Paul Harvey once said (and I paraphrase), "When a person signs up for the military, he signs a blank check, made payable to the people of the United States for an amount up to and including his very life".

Response by Darius James made May 17 at 2018 12:38 AM

Darius James — Thu, 17 May 2018 00:38:02 -0400

So have to be honest here, Title 38 says that I'm technically a Veteran. I served 3 1/2 years in the Navy as a GSM, got an OTH out the door because I was an IDIOT and smoked marijuana and popped on a urinalysis. I have the opportunity to get it changed to an honorable discharge but I'm morally torn. I was a shitbag for the first couple months onboard my ship DDG99. But after a CO's Mast I turned around and became hot shit, got all my quals and trained new guys but still got shit evals, so my childish mind said fuck it I don't care anymore and sunk my career basically just waiting for the point where I got caught. I was scared the whole time was smoking but being a weak minded fuck at the time allowed myself to do it more. I have since gotten a good job at a shipyard providing for my wife and I and gotten my shit together. Full benefits, paid vacation, the works. What do you think I should do? My family and other people who have served and are still serving have told me to try and get it expunged from my record, should I go through with it?

Response by SPC Cheridan Bounds made May 17 at 2018 1:13 AM

SPC Cheridan Bounds — Thu, 17 May 2018 01:13:48 -0400

Personally, I was in the Guard for 6 years. Finished it and got out. But i never deployed(even though i volunteered but my unit at the time told me they needed medics and infantry-i was neither) I personally don't consider myself a veteran because I was never active. My dad was so I consider him one. We actually get into arguments sometimes cause he considers me one. I guess it's just personal preference.

Response by MSG Calvin De Jong made May 17 at 2018 2:22 AM

MSG Calvin De Jong — Thu, 17 May 2018 02:22:58 -0400

The commander of my local American Legion was considered a veteran. He was medically discharged 2 days into BCT. I served 24 years in the guards and reserves, I was not eligible to join.

Response by CPL Johnny Whalen made May 17 at 2018 4:46 AM

CPL Johnny Whalen — Thu, 17 May 2018 04:46:27 -0400

I can see why its a question, cause some feel they havent done enough to earn that title. But im like the rest of yall, if u do your time or whatever u deserve it.

Response by AB Darrin Myers made May 17 at 2018 5:44 AM

AB Darrin Myers — Thu, 17 May 2018 05:44:46 -0400

I screwed up. I should've shut my mouth and stayed in. I was young, dumb and in love. I don't claim anything. I barely mention my service to anyone. I think if you signed up, you made some kind of decision to lay it all on the line for your country. Maybe I'm wrong.

Response by AB Simon Clowes made May 17 at 2018 5:46 AM

AB Simon Clowes — Thu, 17 May 2018 05:46:41 -0400

I can understand how you can feel that you dint count as a Vet because they are days Unfeel that way. I did 6 years teaching electronics to apprentices (ok Australian Air aForce) and never left the Mainland. Did get close with Fauklands.

Having said that I did knowing sign that proverbial blank check that stated I could pay with my life. Those of us who never saw active duty often feel we are not Vets because we never were in a situation where we might have to cash that check -rightly or wringly.

Response by SPC Carl Hale made May 17 at 2018 6:22 AM

SPC Carl Hale — Thu, 17 May 2018 06:22:56 -0400

First off, I am happy I found this site! Secondly, I was not an SPC! I could not locate my job specialty while on active duty! I was a Legal Clerk stationed @ FtRichardson, AK! USARAL! Please change this as I do not want to be classified as something I was not! Thank You! ch

Response by SSG Gilbert Duran made May 17 at 2018 7:32 AM

SSG Gilbert Duran — Thu, 17 May 2018 07:32:23 -0400

Anyone who serves honorably

Response by SSgt Michael Richardson made May 17 at 2018 8:44 AM

SSgt Michael Richardson — Thu, 17 May 2018 08:44:31 -0400

When you write that blank check and they don't cash it your not a veteran.

Response by SPC Jerry Hayne made May 17 at 2018 8:53 AM

SPC Jerry Hayne — Thu, 17 May 2018 08:53:40 -0400

If you sign up, complete training, and discharge in anything but dishonorable conditions, you are a Veteran. I did 6 years- 1 tour in Iraq- and then got out because I got divorced and gained custody of my daughter.......14 years ago. I miss it, but do not regret my decision one bit. She is getting ready to graduate High School this year. I tell you this because i have seen answers all over the board on this topic, but when it comes down to it, only one question comes to mind....Did you serve your country in an honorable way? Each case is different.

Response by PO3 Charles Wyatt made May 17 at 2018 10:00 AM

PO3 Charles Wyatt — Thu, 17 May 2018 10:00:55 -0400

General guide line 180 days of first duty station

Response by SFC Paul Glasscock made May 17 at 2018 10:18 AM

SFC Paul Glasscock — Thu, 17 May 2018 10:18:05 -0400

If you reached the 180 day mark and then released due to no fault of your own then you are a Veteran in my mind. HOOAH!

Response by PO3 Alfonso Gonzalez made May 17 at 2018 12:09 PM

PO3 Alfonso Gonzalez — Thu, 17 May 2018 12:09:32 -0400

You want to laugh? I had been out of the nave for 6 years. I am working as a LPN at a local Hosptial. I am working in surgery as a scrub. One day we had a new Dr. In his first case with us. It was a simple case went fine, end of case Dr. is Chatting it up getting to know the crew. Someone says hay I think Al was in the navy blooms at me and says you were in the navy I said yes he ask what I did I told him I worked in medical (because 99% of the people don't know what corpsman are) and that was it. Later on he told me I was the first man he meet from the navy that wasn't a seal. LOL

Response by SSG Ron McLane made May 17 at 2018 12:18 PM

SSG Ron McLane — Thu, 17 May 2018 12:18:18 -0400

My opinion as a former active duty enlisted soldier and as a Veteran is you need to complete your tour after boot camp.
Unless you were injured and medically discharged during boot camp or during tour.
Stay safe my brothers and sisters

Response by CPL Ray Wallace made May 17 at 2018 12:22 PM

CPL Ray Wallace — Thu, 17 May 2018 12:22:40 -0400

I mean in all honesty if you made it through basic, got your unit and either finished your first contract or was injured during that period and was medically chaptered out I believe you've earned the right be called a veteran. The Service is not for everybody and that is no secret. But if you show up, sign the contract and give it 100% and make it to either the end of (let's say at a minimum) your first contract then yes regardless of your job I believe a person has earned the right to be called a veteran. ( medical issues aside of course)

Response by CPO Gary Thomas made May 17 at 2018 12:32 PM

CPO Gary Thomas — Thu, 17 May 2018 12:32:28 -0400

I know several who served, and circumstances resulted in a discharge under less than honorable conditions. I consider them veterans, especially when we are still learning more about PTSD and it's effect on coping skills

Response by CPT Robert Bretherick made May 17 at 2018 3:04 PM

CPT Robert Bretherick — Thu, 17 May 2018 15:04:13 -0400

Knew a pilot deplaned in Saigon still in his class A uniform. Under fire for Tet. Climbed into a Huey and before it was over won a DFC. One day of combat made him a Veteran.

Response by PV2 Robert Register made May 17 at 2018 3:30 PM

PV2 Robert Register — Thu, 17 May 2018 15:30:48 -0400

I was 14 days PCS to Germany when I was put in med hold for a medical problem. I was honorably discharged, and I have a DD214. I live in NC took said DD214 to the DMV and now have Veteran in my Lic. I signed a blank check to Uncle Sam for up to and including my life. I consider myself a veteran although I did not see combat. What say ye?

Response by SPC Lorisa Redner made May 17 at 2018 3:54 PM

SPC Lorisa Redner — Thu, 17 May 2018 15:54:22 -0400

After first enlistment I know that’s harsh but when get out they will subtract your time in basic an AIT away from your time in service just my thought is all
I got hurt in basic but I still served my 4yrs I didn’t go down range but I did go to Korea! I am veteran an no I won’t let a sole take that away from me

Response by SSG Danny Almodovar made May 17 at 2018 7:24 PM

SSG Danny Almodovar — Thu, 17 May 2018 19:24:32 -0400

There’s a difference between a veteran and a combat veteran! Just because you were in the service it doesn’t always make you a veteran. VFW stands for Veteans of Foreign Wars. I don’t think dudes that got kicked out of basic for not adapting are at your local VFW rubbing elbows with Vietnam, OIF, OEF and OND vets.

Response by SPC Nicholas Simpson made May 17 at 2018 8:47 PM

SPC Nicholas Simpson — Thu, 17 May 2018 20:47:53 -0400

I think, "Vetran" title is earned after service in a war zone... Now.. "combat veteran" is the bad asses, I am not one... I did my 9 months and that's it. So I say I'm just a Vetran, but my buddy here, now he's a combat veteran... 2 cents deposited

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2018 8:48 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 May 2018 20:48:17 -0400

This makes me feel a little better. I went through boot camp for people with prior experience in a certain field and graduated as a SW3(E-4)and served for 6 years without deploying and had to ADSEP after hurricane Katrina. I never saw any action except for training like crazy for a bunch of stuff I never got a chance to do. Because of that I never have felt like a true veteran and the VA doesn’t consider me one since I didn’t have enough active service. USN

Response by CPL Chuck Hanson made May 17 at 2018 9:51 PM

CPL Chuck Hanson — Thu, 17 May 2018 21:51:22 -0400

I joined the guard during the Cold War era. We did get the “ your not really a soldier “ comments from active duty troops occasionally when doing our two weeks at active duty Posts. But following 9/11 and beginning active duty deployments , the full time active duty folks started treating us as equals ( except some pv1 fresh out of basic and ait , who’s never been downrange , make some comment , but we just ignored the boy ! Lol )

Response by SSG Thomas Mckay made May 17 at 2018 10:02 PM

SSG Thomas Mckay — Thu, 17 May 2018 22:02:37 -0400

I proudly served 23 years in the Indiana Army National Guard. At one time we were looked down on as part time soldiers but no more. I'm thankful that it's seen that reservists do serve a purpose

Response by PO1 David Albert made May 18 at 2018 12:04 AM

PO1 David Albert — Fri, 18 May 2018 00:04:04 -0400

If someone never makes it through training or gets the Big Chicken Dinner, I've got nothing for them... I appreciate the sentiment, but receiving training is not serving... now, if one got hurt serving aside from the training, that's serving.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2018 12:50 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 May 2018 00:50:40 -0400

I think as long as you didn’t drop in boot camp or something then you are a vet in my book

Response by AN Daniel Durant made May 18 at 2018 6:38 AM

AN Daniel Durant — Fri, 18 May 2018 06:38:21 -0400

Honorable Discharge= Veteran
General Under Honorable Discharge= Veteran
Dishonorable Discharge= not Veteran

Response by PVT Robert Scheu made May 18 at 2018 9:55 AM

PVT Robert Scheu — Fri, 18 May 2018 09:55:38 -0400

Someone medically separated should be considered a veteran

Response by CPO Arveca R Haberlein made May 18 at 2018 10:44 AM

CPO Arveca R Haberlein — Fri, 18 May 2018 10:44:33 -0400

Each person's situation is different. I served 28 years and I'd say day one of stepping out of boot camp you're a veteran. After all, a reservist or national guardsman is considered a veteran and they serve less than 70 days a year unless activated. It's not whether you win (or complete a few years) it's the fact that you ran.

Response by Cpl Thomas Davis made May 18 at 2018 2:05 PM

Cpl Thomas Davis — Fri, 18 May 2018 14:05:11 -0400

Agreed, if you are not discharged dishonorable then regardless of the reason you separated you are a veteran.

Response by SN Roy Simmons made May 18 at 2018 2:06 PM

SN Roy Simmons — Fri, 18 May 2018 14:06:23 -0400

At least a year

Response by SPC Rusty Bradford made May 18 at 2018 2:59 PM

SPC Rusty Bradford — Fri, 18 May 2018 14:59:35 -0400

I was in the army guard. Imy unit was activated but I did not get to go anywhere cause of being shot. I spent 5yrs in. Did all kinds of stuff like lol airport security after the 9/11 attacks, and was part of a joint task force with the 5th army in texas. Now I'm told I have no benefits cause I'm not a vet. I'm not even aloud to go to the v.a. hospital for anything. I think if u shipped out to basic, boot camp, or ait or what not. You should be considered a vet.and have the same respects as active duty soldiers. It wasn't my fault they put me out. I wanted to stay in. And deploy with the rest of my unit. But I was honorably discharged.

Response by PV2 Paul Brault made May 18 at 2018 6:26 PM

PV2 Paul Brault — Fri, 18 May 2018 18:26:26 -0400

I was a 88m and 92g with 4 years

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2018 6:32 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 May 2018 18:32:26 -0400

This is a very hard question. I believe it's a case by case basis. My wife joined the navy to be a equipment operator and was forced out due to migraines while in boot camp. I consider a partial vet do to her heart and want to serve but yet not able to fulfil her tour. So on that note the base for being a vet in my opinion is to fulfil your original voluntary obligation in which you signed up for and any other after that. Getting a dishonorable discharge should be looked at case by case because as we all know the military can fuck anyone for anything. Deployments don't count in only vet status. It only counts as combat vet status and that amongst a few can be argued. But if you look at regs it's 90 days of active duty. So here the stories and have your own opinion but 90 days is 90 days..

Response by Cpl Joseph McCoy made May 18 at 2018 6:49 PM

Cpl Joseph McCoy — Fri, 18 May 2018 18:49:23 -0400

Dishonorable or Less Than Honorable - Not a Veteran
Completion of enlistment = vet

Response by SSG Michael Raysses made May 18 at 2018 8:10 PM

SSG Michael Raysses — Fri, 18 May 2018 20:10:12 -0400

Lol!.... well... if you can't CONFORM, and your respective service branch shows you the HATCH???... then?.. guess what?... your DONE!.... don't go in unless you have the mindset to be successful within the ranks!... enough said!... HOOAH?... SSG Mike Raysses, USAR-Ret..

Response by SFC Howard Thompson made May 18 at 2018 8:46 PM

SFC Howard Thompson — Fri, 18 May 2018 20:46:36 -0400

I on active duty on 21 July 1967, served in Vietnam from 13 Dec 67 -06Dec 68, completed the remainder of my 3 yr enlistment at Ft Carson, CO and Ft Sheridan, IL and received an Honorable Discharge on 19 July 1973 and then served 8 more years in the Army Reserve. I completed my 6 year obligation on 19 July 1973 after 3 years active duty and 3 years in the IRR. I am a Veteraan and proud of it. Have a DD 214 and carry a copy in my wallet all the time.

Response by SSgt Jason Landry made May 18 at 2018 8:46 PM

SSgt Jason Landry — Fri, 18 May 2018 20:46:40 -0400

Very simple even though I hate this question. Did you make it past training and get assigned to a unit? If the answer is yes then you served and ate a veteran.

Response by MSgt Joseph Coppola made May 18 at 2018 8:58 PM

MSgt Joseph Coppola — Fri, 18 May 2018 20:58:25 -0400

Requesting separation during BMT or TTS; Dishonorable Discharge, Other than Honorable, General due to medical defect undetected at time of physical.

Response by PO2 Ed Kreiner made May 18 at 2018 9:05 PM

PO2 Ed Kreiner — Fri, 18 May 2018 21:05:21 -0400

In order for me to consided you as a veteran, you need to have completed boot camp, and been assigned to a permanent duty station. I have a relative who did not complete boot camp. He even has veteran license plates on his car. I cannot bring myself to consider him a veteran. You have to complete boot camp before you can serve your country.

Response by CPL John Saffle made May 18 at 2018 9:18 PM

CPL John Saffle — Fri, 18 May 2018 21:18:46 -0400

I've been out for years, last thing on my mind is being asked this.

Response by PFC Joseph Burkhart made May 18 at 2018 9:21 PM

PFC Joseph Burkhart — Fri, 18 May 2018 21:21:45 -0400

I served as a indirect fire infantryman mortarmen 3 years I went ft benning for basic then to ft Lewis for the rest of the time

Response by SPC Tom Merrill made May 18 at 2018 9:23 PM

SPC Tom Merrill — Fri, 18 May 2018 21:23:33 -0400

Pro For Et Patria.

Response by SPC Tom Merrill made May 18 at 2018 9:25 PM

SPC Tom Merrill — Fri, 18 May 2018 21:25:05 -0400

Dam auto spell.... Pro Deo Et Patria.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2018 9:27 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 May 2018 21:27:44 -0400

You serve honorably to deserve the name.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2018 10:09 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 May 2018 22:09:39 -0400

Whether it be 1 year or 20. If you served honerably and got out for reasons bigger than yourself that’s all that matters. You did your part and served. You rate the title.

Response by SGT Shannon Stamps made May 18 at 2018 10:23 PM

SGT Shannon Stamps — Fri, 18 May 2018 22:23:28 -0400

Reservist and National Guard personnel are are veterans who do not qualify for Benifits unless they have serve enough time in active duty. I was only a reservist but was never called to active duty. Had Benny called, I would gladly have done my duty, whatever it may be. So when asked to stand and be recognized for serving our great nation, I stand proudly with all my brothers and sisters in arms.

Response by SPC Richardmi Leasure made May 18 at 2018 10:33 PM

SPC Richardmi Leasure — Fri, 18 May 2018 22:33:14 -0400

Served in the Army reserves from 1965 to 1971. D the d monthly and annual training. Never deployed. Honorable discharge. Veteran or not ? This has haunted me for years.

Response by Sgt Larry Irvine made May 18 at 2018 10:53 PM

Sgt Larry Irvine — Fri, 18 May 2018 22:53:47 -0400

At the end of boot, they called me, MARINE!

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 1:19 AM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 01:19:26 -0400

I have been in the Air Force reserves for the last 5 years and my contract is up in July and I am going to reup for 4 more years. I have never deployed bit I have gone to boot, 2 tech schools, and I have awards from Iraq for what I did state side for my teams that went out there. All I have to say is it is the best job I have ever had. The one thing that really bugs me is civilians that just don't get it. In there eyes I am a "weekend warrior" but it is a lot harder than it really is because I have to live a double life civi and military.

Response by SP5 James Jacks made May 19 at 2018 3:51 AM

SP5 James Jacks — Sat, 19 May 2018 03:51:09 -0400

Title 38 of the Code of Regulations seems to spell it out quite well. No further comment.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 8:15 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 08:15:58 -0400

What defines a Veteran? To me, personally if you commit to a contract of at least 4 years and honorably finish that contract or medically discharged then you are a veteran. Title 38 CFR states active duty, where does that leave reserves and guard? Myself, I have 10 years active duty AF, 10 years with the ANG and will serve an additional 10 years providing health holds up.

Response by SPC Edward LaPlante made May 19 at 2018 8:26 AM

SPC Edward LaPlante — Sat, 19 May 2018 08:26:28 -0400

Completion of full enlistment
Honorable Discharge

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 9:27 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 09:27:20 -0400

Well not everybody deploys that is for sure I'd say if you happen to be one of those people but you served your whole time honorably than you still are a veteran, today for example I see alot of cav scouts and infantry guys that haven't deployed but even so regardless of mos there is always that chance you will

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 9:39 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 09:39:41 -0400

From someone who’s been around a while, let me explain it this way. Outside of the legal definition, a veteran was always considered someone who served their country in armed conflict somewhere in the world. A retired vet was someone who did the same and managed to stick around and do his full retirement tour. Anyone else was just someone who served their country, did their time, and got out. Their is nothing to be ashamed of about any of them, anybody who chooses to serve is still miles above those that choose to sit on the sidelines.

Response by PO2 Carl Tindell made May 19 at 2018 11:10 AM

PO2 Carl Tindell — Sat, 19 May 2018 11:10:29 -0400

If you completed your tour and were honorably discharged, you are a veteran

Response by SGT Jason Stevens made May 19 at 2018 11:10 AM

SGT Jason Stevens — Sat, 19 May 2018 11:10:45 -0400

To me complete basic and get a discharge medical or honorable

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 11:13 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 11:13:30 -0400

There are some who would say that the moment one takes the oath, personally, I think the first completed mission is the line.

Response by CMSgt Theodore Ellenberger made May 19 at 2018 11:19 AM

CMSgt Theodore Ellenberger — Sat, 19 May 2018 11:19:54 -0400

All gave some, some gave all. Do not let your own opinion belittle some other man's service.

Response by PO3 Steve Ayola made May 19 at 2018 11:31 AM

PO3 Steve Ayola — Sat, 19 May 2018 11:31:37 -0400

As a Vietnam era Navy Corpsman/Neuropsychiatric Technician, NEC 8485, one of my jobs was to screen people who came into the mental health clinic and wanted to get out of the Navy. This to determine if they had any underlying mental health issues which would actually require the services of a staff psychiatrist or psychologist. Every single one of these people, without exception, wanted the hell out and did not care one iota about being called a veteran.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 11:35 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 11:35:22 -0400

I feel that those who put on the uniform of any branch of service in the honor and defense of this Great Nation, who fulfilled their obligation honorably is a veteran.

Response by PO2 Dennis Dickerson made May 19 at 2018 12:15 PM

PO2 Dennis Dickerson — Sat, 19 May 2018 12:15:02 -0400

Other than a dishonorable discharge you are a veteran. That being said I do feel if you came out relatively unscarred, leave the benefits to those who need it most.

Response by PFC Nicholas Bingman made May 19 at 2018 1:27 PM

PFC Nicholas Bingman — Sat, 19 May 2018 13:27:06 -0400

I was in for a little less than 2 years got discharged for popping on a drug test.I never had any other problems passed about 10 prior drug tests but they sent my 20 year old ass back home confused and angry but its all good ill always be able to put rounds on target and for that im thankful.

Response by SSG Nate Fel made May 19 at 2018 2:09 PM

SSG Nate Fel — Sat, 19 May 2018 14:09:23 -0400

For us that served in the army reserves . For full veterans benefits we must serve 6 years reserve time or at least 180 days active duty time other than training therefore going by this I would say if you did not die or was injured in combat 180 days active duty service or 6 years reserve time horoably served is what I would say make you a veteran .

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 3:32 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 15:32:49 -0400

I was active for 4.5 years and reserves now. 11 years this november.

Response by Cpl Ted Barragan made May 19 at 2018 3:36 PM

Cpl Ted Barragan — Sat, 19 May 2018 15:36:49 -0400

Response by SPC Rashod Johnson made May 19 at 2018 4:07 PM

SPC Rashod Johnson — Sat, 19 May 2018 16:07:33 -0400

Veteran is anyone who served now combat veteran is anyone who has deployed in a hostile zone

Response by PO1 Steven Story made May 19 at 2018 4:14 PM

PO1 Steven Story — Sat, 19 May 2018 16:14:06 -0400

I feel if you have received a DD214, for your first enlistment, you are a veteran if other than medical discharge. Anything less than honorable you are not a trie veteran.

Response by SPC Tom Schultz made May 19 at 2018 4:44 PM

SPC Tom Schultz — Sat, 19 May 2018 16:44:11 -0400

7 years

Response by CPO Kelly Ryan made May 19 at 2018 5:09 PM

CPO Kelly Ryan — Sat, 19 May 2018 17:09:59 -0400

20 years

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2018 6:10 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 19 May 2018 18:10:12 -0400

Some people say that no matter how much time you’ve put in, whether you’ve deployed or not. You enlisted, you made it through training. Your a veteran. some people don’t consider you a veteran unless you’ve put in years and retired our or was honorably discharged out. Everyone has their own idea on what a veteran is. I had people telling me happy Veterans Day but I don’t consider myself a veteran. I enlist November 2016 into the National guard. I graduated basic in May and AIT in September of 2017 and after being gone 7 months away from him and my family I was finally able to come home. I hit one year a couple months after being home and receive my promotion to E-3.
I have been at my current unit for 8 months now. I’ve been in a year and 6 months. Haven’t been deployed yet. No awards. I almost got honor grad from AIT but due to an injury and get recycled. I lost my chance at honor grad.
I don’t consider myself a veteran because I feel like I haven’t done anything to earn that title. My grandpa served in Korea as apart of active duty army. He put in his years. Earned awards as well as received a Purple Heart. I consider him a veteran. He is everything I aspire to be and do in my military career.

Response by CPL Nick Cortez made May 19 at 2018 7:17 PM

CPL Nick Cortez — Sat, 19 May 2018 19:17:23 -0400

I served for four years. If you finish your first contract without getting a dishonorable or kicked out for being a shitbag you're a veteran.

Response by SGT Tony East made May 19 at 2018 7:50 PM

SGT Tony East — Sat, 19 May 2018 19:50:37 -0400

I served 6 years in the Army Reserves as a 68delta Helicopter Powetrain i was 180 days in with a green card for training and 1 year in the national guard as a tank specialist my Dd214 confirmed this but i dont feel like a veteran because I actually dont get any benefits i know of yes i had a green card for over 200 days and a pink card for 6 years for my country not my fault there was not a war but still today no benifits for my time!

Response by CPL Heyo Goldhammer made May 19 at 2018 8:12 PM

CPL Heyo Goldhammer — Sat, 19 May 2018 20:12:32 -0400

I did six years and got out. No combat, wasn't any at that time. I did my time for God and country. I do not think of myself as a Veteran (no combat) but at the same time I was ready to perform if required. It all depends on your perspective on the situation you get out on less than status then you are not a Veteran

Response by PO2 Chris Vogt made May 19 at 2018 9:10 PM

PO2 Chris Vogt — Sat, 19 May 2018 21:10:18 -0400

People get so serious over this topic, and there’s a lot of strife about it in some communities. So I say you are a veteran if you can iron and starch your dress blues on your own a few hours before a detail because you were too busy or forgot to take them to the cleaner. Or got assigned a last minute detail lol

HM2

Response by SGT Michael Henry made May 19 at 2018 11:27 PM

SGT Michael Henry — Sat, 19 May 2018 23:27:32 -0400

If you do your time of three years honorably with a deployment of maybe 12-15 months

Response by PO2 Bob Sloan made May 19 at 2018 11:31 PM

PO2 Bob Sloan — Sat, 19 May 2018 23:31:39 -0400

If you completed your contract, whether 2x4 or 4x2, and were honorably discharged you're a vet. Or if you were medically discharged. I did 4 years active, 1 Westpac and 14 years reserves. The only reason I didn't complete my 20 was that they moved my reserve unit ( MIUW 204) from Lewes, De to South Carolina.

Response by CPL Chris Pinnell made May 20 at 2018 12:01 AM

CPL Chris Pinnell — Sun, 20 May 2018 00:01:18 -0400

I did 6 years in reserves do i qualify as a veteran no deployments at all.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 12:04 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 00:04:55 -0400

Currently serving, but in my opinion, I’m not a veteran, a veteran is a soldier who served and then discharged honorably. I’m currently serving...that makes me a soldier! #queenofbattle

Response by SSG Arlo Gleghorn Jr. made May 20 at 2018 6:30 AM

SSG Arlo Gleghorn Jr. — Sun, 20 May 2018 06:30:06 -0400

I remember hearing six month's and one day considered you as a veteran....

Response by PO3 Bill Aspy made May 20 at 2018 9:23 AM

PO3 Bill Aspy — Sun, 20 May 2018 09:23:07 -0400

Anyone who wears the uniform, active or reserve, serves with honor, no matter where they are stationed or what MOS, deserves the title, Veteran!!

Response by SPC David Hall made May 20 at 2018 9:25 AM

SPC David Hall — Sun, 20 May 2018 09:25:13 -0400

Thanks for your service

Response by SSG Richard Yohn made May 20 at 2018 9:27 AM

SSG Richard Yohn — Sun, 20 May 2018 09:27:59 -0400

You must at least made out of AIT to a first station. If you received a dishonorable discharge, I can’t consider you one that will have my back. Period.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 9:36 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 09:36:17 -0400

I feel how many of you do, but as in everything regardless how we feel certain criteria must be met to validate is or is the individual a veteran.
1) Boot Camp and AIT regardless of service branch does not count ( even if injured, unless granted the status as the person was separating)
2) You must, not me but the Title is clear ... must serve 180 of continuous active duty service not to include Initial Entry or Training....

So we can have our own interpretations but you also must remember other facts as well...
1) A Reservist or Guard active duty time only counts during their training days be it a 2day weekend, 3 day weekend and their 2 weeks in the summer. Unless on an ASDOS , WIAS etc tasking the average Soldier that only doe one weekend and two weeks training will only get 26-30 days a year taking him/her 6 yrs to hit 180 days ( usually what’s required for Reserve /Guard only contracts)
2) when they deploy 6mo+ they receive the title “Veteran”
Again the wording makes the difference and therefore why most don’t meet the criteria. It’s in most federal jobs giving preference to veterans. They ask 1) Are you or have you ever been a memener if armed services
2) What Branch. 3) Are you a veteran and then 4) Have you served more than 180 days of continuous service?

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 9:42 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 09:42:08 -0400

Well there will always be those case that will be questionable, I feel that an individual should served a full term of enlistment before earning that tittle. Another issue that i have seen is that people join for the wrong reasons not because they really wanted to serve, but because they had no choice amd while they served did very little to support the mission. Medically discharge are a different category.

Response by TSgt Ronnie Brunett made May 20 at 2018 10:13 AM

TSgt Ronnie Brunett — Sun, 20 May 2018 10:13:55 -0400

I think 12 years qualifies me

Response by LCpl Peter Thornhill made May 20 at 2018 11:36 AM

LCpl Peter Thornhill — Sun, 20 May 2018 11:36:08 -0400

If you served , you are a veteran

Response by PVT James Giles made May 20 at 2018 12:51 PM

PVT James Giles — Sun, 20 May 2018 12:51:11 -0400

I completed basic and mos, 1 year at duty station in sweinfurt Germany , general under honorable conditions , I was a 17 year old cocky kid , I don't consider myself a veteran and many times wish I could of reinlisted but recruitment always seemed beyond me . Never used anything having to do with VA , turns out I had a drinking problem though, 24 years sober ,no telling what I would of been if I had that help before discharge . Point is honorable people don't abuse this status.

Response by SPC Wayne Brandon made May 20 at 2018 1:22 PM

SPC Wayne Brandon — Sun, 20 May 2018 13:22:53 -0400

Honorable discharge

Response by PO2 Michael Lee made May 20 at 2018 2:05 PM

PO2 Michael Lee — Sun, 20 May 2018 14:05:08 -0400

Not every one can do military service their is no shame if you fail but never try to sell that you are a veteran the only vets i know will tell you you have to have an honorable discharge to be a vet please don't take away from those of us who did. You have to give up so much to be in the military and only vets can relate. It's a proud thing to be able to call yourself a vet so if you are not don't call yourself one please. Sincerly ADJ-2 Michael J Lee USN

Response by LT George Welch made May 20 at 2018 2:40 PM

LT George Welch — Sun, 20 May 2018 14:40:34 -0400

You went, and you served honorably, your a USA Vet!

Response by Cpl Harry Brown made May 20 at 2018 3:36 PM

Cpl Harry Brown — Sun, 20 May 2018 15:36:24 -0400

I routinely go to the VA and told a friend of mine about my experiences there and suggested he also go. However turned out he was told he didn’t qualify because he was, “Only a Reservist “ that had not been activated. What’s wrong with this picture.....

Response by Sgt Steven Ayers made May 20 at 2018 4:29 PM

Sgt Steven Ayers — Sun, 20 May 2018 16:29:00 -0400

Compete your contact.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 4:36 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 16:36:56 -0400

I did 9 years as a builder in the seabees did 3 deployments 2 of which were in Afghanistan where are my third appointment I did convoys saw combat got home had a back injury and TBI as well as PTSD went to Walter Reed got hooked to painkillers which were prescribed and got in trouble they gave me an other than honorable discharge which really screwed up a lot of things for me because at the time I was undergoing a medical board where I was rated 100% disabled by the VA weather and because of my character discharge I can't collect unemployment they took all of my days away which was 72 days which would have been a pretty penny, and some people don't even consider me a veteran and look down on me which really pisses me off because I put in a lot of time Blood Sweat and Tears and because I made mistakes people treat me like a nobody.. I've been a civilian since January I have two herniated discs in my lower back and severe sciatica and this is all after getting back surgery at Walter Reed mine you, and trying to retain my VA benefits has been like pulling teeth.. I completed an enlistment a two-year extension and was on my next Enlistment when I got out with an other than honerable I've had two assholes trying to tell me that I'm not a veteran and blows my mind these are dudes who never been deployed to a war zone and did half the things that I did and I won't lie it definitely left a sore taste in my mouth for the military

Response by CN Vernon Brown made May 20 at 2018 5:50 PM

CN Vernon Brown — Sun, 20 May 2018 17:50:34 -0400

If you were out in the desert woth me don't care how long you were in. If you were in and did your job whether it was what you trained for or busy work then you my brother are a veteran. Training is like try outs to me. Once that's over with then you officially have earned the right to be labeled a veteran from my perspective. Add the time in and then I would say you've earned more than just a title

Response by SPC John Homan II made May 20 at 2018 5:51 PM

SPC John Homan II — Sun, 20 May 2018 17:51:24 -0400

National guards and reservist of all branches get honorable discharges also veterans of which branch they serve , pretty sure that makes them a VET ?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 6:58 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 18:58:56 -0400

I did 6 years in the Army National Gaurd, did not get an oppurtunity to deploy with my unit, so I decided to go to afghanistan as a contractor, which my unit willingly agreed to for the last 4 months prior to ETS. Had a great time. Finished my obligation. Still have about a year and some left on the IRR. I would consider myself a veteran. I have however ran across a handful of guys claiming veteran..AND somehow still reaping the benifits in a sense when they never even made it through AIT and got officially placed or staitioned with a unit. I would not consider that a veteran. You can argue all day that they took the same oath or completed the BCT portion and that puts them in the same catagory, i just dont see it that way. If you never had a unit, an actual JOB and did nothing to actually contribute to the United States Military aside from training and helping up thier recruit numbers, you havent earned that title.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 7:09 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 19:09:21 -0400

I've been enlisted for 9 years wear the uniform never been deployed and still not considered a veteran and unable to use va system.
WHAT A LOAD OF CRAP

Response by SGT Tim Purtell made May 20 at 2018 7:17 PM

SGT Tim Purtell — Sun, 20 May 2018 19:17:09 -0400

Honorable Discharge

Response by PV2 Denia Davis made May 20 at 2018 7:21 PM

PV2 Denia Davis — Sun, 20 May 2018 19:21:42 -0400

We are a band of brothers and sisters that made a choice to serve our country for whatever reason no matter who you are you're still a veteran. Hooorahhh!

Response by CPL Nathan Cottrill made May 20 at 2018 7:33 PM

CPL Nathan Cottrill — Sun, 20 May 2018 19:33:32 -0400

If you have served actively in any branch, and have been released from service above dishonorable you are indeed a Veteran.

Response by SPC Wilson Mason made May 20 at 2018 7:57 PM

SPC Wilson Mason — Sun, 20 May 2018 19:57:43 -0400

Thanks for the privilege of sharing with brotherhood

Response by SGT Reggie Gates (RETIRED ) made May 20 at 2018 8:12 PM

SGT Reggie Gates (RETIRED ) — Sun, 20 May 2018 20:12:29 -0400

By the DOD rule A veteran is different from a servicemember. A individual is considered to be a veteran when that person has served 180 days on active duty excluding basic training and mos training. Also if that person has served 90 days on active duty with at least one day of combat time that person is considered to be a veteran. Now that might seem unfair to individuals in the reserve or national guard but that is the rule by DOD policy.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 8:25 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 20:25:56 -0400

I may of only did 6 years in the Illinois national guard. Only got called up for flood duty in 1993 here in Illinois. I know I'm not a legal veteran but I haven't stopped serving. I've been sergeant at arms with my legion post for over 25 years and post commander for the last 2.5 years. I'm the second vice chair with our veterans commission of Knox County. Also I am Sergeant at arms with Shave for the Brave. We are a non profit org that has raised over $100,000 for the Honor Flight of the Quad Cities. That's 2 full flights of veterans on a trip of a lifetime to see the memorials they were built to honor their sacrifices. I may not be a legal veteran but I'm gonna do everything I can do too honor every man and 2woman that had the courage to stand up and say that oath. Thank you too every veteran that said that oath.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 8:32 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 20:32:11 -0400

I served 12 year's in the Army National Guard no VA benefits that's ok I served my Country

Response by SSgt Donald Harrell made May 20 at 2018 8:53 PM

SSgt Donald Harrell — Sun, 20 May 2018 20:53:48 -0400

Anybody that has the guts to put on that uniform and put his or her life on the line is a VET. It doesn't matter if you were in combat or not.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2018 9:40 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 May 2018 21:40:51 -0400

The uniform of all branches start with U.S. one team one fight. No stolen valor. You put your hand up and swore to protect this country against foreign and domestic. Call it what you want but you’re ok with me from being a POG to Special Ops. Deployment or no deployment. If we can have “the conversations” then you pass the test. The labels are for civilians to categorize us. It’s up the past, current, and future service members to cut the B.S. and say regardless of status (POG/deployment) that’s a brother/sister in arms show some damn respect.

Response by PFC Steve Mansios made May 20 at 2018 9:50 PM

PFC Steve Mansios — Sun, 20 May 2018 21:50:53 -0400

You just can't sign up and get out does not make you a veteran

Response by SPC Donny Miller made May 20 at 2018 10:00 PM

SPC Donny Miller — Sun, 20 May 2018 22:00:57 -0400

Jumping out early is bs honor is about holding your end up you earn the title of soldier and veteran it's not a cheap gift anybody can claim

Response by PFC Alex Cunningham made May 21 at 2018 12:31 AM

PFC Alex Cunningham — Mon, 21 May 2018 00:31:45 -0400

I got injured in basic training and was asked if I wanted to medically separate. I told my docs to do what they could to get me through training so I can get surgery and stay in. They loved my enthusiasm to serve and made it happen. I was so doped up I could fall asleep walking but managed to maintain until I got to my unit, and deployed to Iraq. Got reinjured. Got back and medically discharged. I agree that there are a lot of things that make soldiers feel less than for not deploying, not making it past their first enlistment, but at the end of the day if your dd214 says honorable, you're a veteran, but even some that got out on some less than honorable things I would still call a veteran, but if you had even the guts to try and serve, hats off to you.

Response by PO2 Rw Miller made May 21 at 2018 12:34 AM

PO2 Rw Miller — Mon, 21 May 2018 00:34:15 -0400

At least 180 days for medical/ injury type discharges.. bad conduct and other than honorable should not be considered veterans for the purposes of benefits.. they served but basically quit got fired or generally screwed the pooch

Response by SPC Matthew Sylvain made May 21 at 2018 6:20 AM

SPC Matthew Sylvain — Mon, 21 May 2018 06:20:18 -0400

Served 4 years National Guard and 5 years active duty

Response by MGySgt Steve Reep made May 21 at 2018 6:24 AM

MGySgt Steve Reep — Mon, 21 May 2018 06:24:30 -0400

Any one who gets an honorable discharged..

Response by LT Lewis Laurito made May 21 at 2018 6:31 AM

LT Lewis Laurito — Mon, 21 May 2018 06:31:02 -0400

Signed up, completed a tour. I was classified as 4F during the VN War I waved it and joined anyway. I went on active duty 10/10/1967 and got my wings April 1969, discharged 1972. I consider my self a veteran.

Response by SPC Leo Perrin made May 21 at 2018 7:17 AM

SPC Leo Perrin — Mon, 21 May 2018 07:17:18 -0400

Do you have a DD214?

Response by SPC Robert Curtis made May 21 at 2018 7:38 AM

SPC Robert Curtis — Mon, 21 May 2018 07:38:40 -0400

I enlisted in 1969 . I was active duty '70 & '71 . I served in the reserves in '72 . I never left the Southeast US . I've always carried a certain amount of guilt because I had it easy during those years while others were dying . There were a lot of people who ran out of country at that time . That thought never crossed my mind . I was offered a good deal & I took it . I am a veteran , but I've given nothing to this country compared to many others .

Response by 1stSgt John Collins made May 21 at 2018 7:52 AM

1stSgt John Collins — Mon, 21 May 2018 07:52:53 -0400

180 days

Response by SPC Kurt Hayen made May 21 at 2018 8:49 AM

SPC Kurt Hayen — Mon, 21 May 2018 08:49:41 -0400

I struggle with this. I am a veteran. I served overseas for two years in Panama and then served six years in the national guard after I got out. I never deployed to a combat zone and never saw

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2018 9:48 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 May 2018 09:48:04 -0400

So does this mean someone who is still active shouldn’t park in the veteran space at Home Depot. Asking for a friend.

Response by MSgt Dwayne Gaczewski Sr made May 21 at 2018 10:11 AM

MSgt Dwayne Gaczewski Sr — Mon, 21 May 2018 10:11:04 -0400

Completions of your first time obligation based on enlistment.

Response by PO2 Francisco Rojas made May 21 at 2018 10:49 AM

PO2 Francisco Rojas — Mon, 21 May 2018 10:49:39 -0400

One term at least. Or one qualifying medal.

Response by SGT Paul Short made May 21 at 2018 10:49 AM

SGT Paul Short — Mon, 21 May 2018 10:49:43 -0400

To me, if you didn't finish boot, or ait, then you are not a veteran. If you didn't complete at least one full enlistment, then you have no idea what the mentality or brotherhood is about. Even those that did but never deployed under whatever stroke of luck that happened, then you have no understanding of the true commradarie that a warzone compels. To me that makes you a veteran, but at the same time I understand that a simple completion of training with an honorable discharge warrants you the legal definition of veteran, although I would NEVER feel right claiming such title if I didn't even make it out of basic. To many times I have to hold my tongue over some farce demanding a vet discount claiming how they served their country when they either didn't make it out of basic or barely made it 1 year before receiving a general other than honorable discharge. Legal definition or no, it's a spit in the face of those that did truly serve. Just my 2 cents.

Response by SFC Eric Jackson made May 21 at 2018 10:59 AM

SFC Eric Jackson — Mon, 21 May 2018 10:59:25 -0400

In order for an individual to receive their GI BILL the have to have served 2 years in a 3 year enlistment or 3 of a 4 year enlistment. Most people told me in the early 90's that veteran status existed for those that had been deployed to hazardous duty areas. And yes. Less than honorable separation prevents most other benefits. Why not veteran status.

Response by SFC Eric Jackson made May 21 at 2018 11:20 AM

SFC Eric Jackson — Mon, 21 May 2018 11:20:20 -0400

I know guys that never deployed to a hazard duty area in a 26 year career. It's not where you have been or what you did. Having served in special operations. It takes everyone to make it work. I could do combat arms over color vision at the time I enlisted. But I still served in areas that we were shot at and motored regularly. Those that have never have done that still provided necessary service. I would like to think we all served too prevent war. But that's a fantasy. Pog job as I heard it is as important as the ones on front lines. Combat arms for the most part didn't have to worry about were the beans and bullets came from. They were just there. You also for the most part, got paid regularly and had showers pop up out of no where from time to time. You were also extremely happy to see a flight when you'd been in your feet for days with little sleep. You also didn't have to worry about fuel or mail cause it eventually was there. If it was the individuals back home or in theater. Pogs made sure you could fight and conduct operations. So the term Pog? Really? Choices were made at the time of enlistment. I'm sure a great number of pogs have been shot at or hit an IED.

Bottom line is. Every job is essential to combat operations. Narrow minded thinking one job or one person is more important that the other is stupid.
I sighted time frames as stated at your time of enlistment the qualifies you to your GI Bill. The fact that you loose benefits due to dishonorable discharge. It would seem a reasonable reason for loosing veterans status.

Response by PVT Ray Davidson made May 21 at 2018 11:42 AM

PVT Ray Davidson — Mon, 21 May 2018 11:42:16 -0400

180 days

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2018 12:14 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 May 2018 12:14:30 -0400

I served 16 years in the army national guards and 4 years in the marines. I don't regret one minute of it. I enjoyed all 20 years of my time in the military.

Response by MSgt Kevin Stiles made May 21 at 2018 12:19 PM

MSgt Kevin Stiles — Mon, 21 May 2018 12:19:52 -0400

Must have sevice war zone

Response by SGT Rickey Williams made May 21 at 2018 12:30 PM

SGT Rickey Williams — Mon, 21 May 2018 12:30:18 -0400

No matter your job or your rank if you volunteered and served honorably, you put your life on the line everyday whether overseas or in the States. Because there are people that hate the military and want to harm soldiers sailors and airmen and marines. So you qualify once you’re out of the military.

Response by A1C Briana Mcnamara made May 21 at 2018 2:45 PM

A1C Briana Mcnamara — Mon, 21 May 2018 14:45:26 -0400

Im no one to judge

Response by Cpl Russell Smith made May 21 at 2018 3:31 PM

Cpl Russell Smith — Mon, 21 May 2018 15:31:29 -0400

My only requirment is that you finish bootcamp and do it honorably...and atleast 90 days in your field of endeavor..When i was in 79_ 83...nothing was really happening...long hair was the style..and we were considered geeks...dont blame these guys for gettin out after there 2 or 4...The vets now..hell..your heroes before you even see combat...its aggrivating when i sit and here a couple vets go on about there tour in combat layden territories and find out later when i introduce myself how much biast there is...And there shouldnt be..alot of swollen heads on guys that probably never loades there weapon...Vets are Vets..Bootcamp. And spending some time in the fmf...thats all it should take.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2018 5:18 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 May 2018 17:18:54 -0400

I’m an E4/SPC working in HHC Supply for an Armor Unit with the MN Army NG. I’ve been doing it for 7 years all with the same company. I haven’t been deployed yet. I do not consider myself a veteran because I’ve never worked a long term active duty assignment and I haven’t been deployed. I do not consider myself a veteran.

I think anyone who works more than 6 months of active duty outside of training should be considered a vet; nothing less.

Response by PO3 Rommie Whittaker made May 21 at 2018 5:39 PM

PO3 Rommie Whittaker — Mon, 21 May 2018 17:39:41 -0400

90 days and discharged medically or administrately as long as it was not under less than honorable conditions is the minimum requirement

Response by LTC Bruce Mitchell made May 21 at 2018 6:24 PM

LTC Bruce Mitchell — Mon, 21 May 2018 18:24:14 -0400

Title 38 CFR defines a veteran. Period.

Response by SR Mark Bender made May 21 at 2018 7:02 PM

SR Mark Bender — Mon, 21 May 2018 19:02:01 -0400

I know y'all hate this question and thank you for answering it, as there was some question whether I am a vet. I now know I am not as I did not finish boot camp although I was discharged honorably.

Response by Pvt Ben Carr made May 21 at 2018 7:18 PM

Pvt Ben Carr — Mon, 21 May 2018 19:18:58 -0400

I'll be honest here. In lines the USMC in '08 made it through part is island, mct, mos at lost in the woods (3531 motor t) advanced mos training (3533 lvs operator) hit the fleet with clr1 took the first available deployment (15th MEU with clb15) did almost a years worth of work ups then a 7 month deployment on the uss peleliu. Got back and got my self into some off duty trouble partying (before you say it yes I'm a dumbass) and got myself an oth. 1 week shy of 3 years. I don't qualify for benefits or even the tax break for employers that hire me. I know I worked hard. I know I was fanned good at my job. I know that to this day my brothers I was in with can count on me (as do they ive kept in contact with many of em) I know I'd get back in in a heart beat (he'll I'm actually trying to get upgraded so I can) but the bottom line is I wrote that blank check but guess it bounced. Didn't keep enough in the account for long enough. I'm proud of what I gave, but there's always going to be that shadow of shame at the end. I'm not proud of my screw ups as miniscule as they seem to some but a contract is a contract. And ill never get a nights sleep without thinking about my buddies that had to pick up the slack on the next deployment because I wasnt there to help.

Response by PO3 Robert Sigrest jr made May 21 at 2018 7:22 PM

PO3 Robert Sigrest jr — Mon, 21 May 2018 19:22:52 -0400

It should not matter if you deployed or not if you served in any capacity you are a veteran

Response by 2LT Clyph Volink made May 21 at 2018 7:50 PM

2LT Clyph Volink — Mon, 21 May 2018 19:50:16 -0400

Sometimes your career is just determined more by beauracracy and a roll of the dice than by your heart and desire. That makes this question a tough call by some and a bitter pill by others.

Response by PV2 Hart Den made May 21 at 2018 8:14 PM

PV2 Hart Den — Mon, 21 May 2018 20:14:21 -0400

Some selfish, bitter and insecure people are looking for excuses to feel better than others as a means of feeling validated. Such people usually don't care that this mentality divides the team and is not in line with placing the mission first.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2018 8:23 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 May 2018 20:23:06 -0400

There are clear cut definitions on what qualifies us as veterans.. however, I feel like if you serve your enlistment honorably, or you discharge medically, or obviously retire we should be considered veterans.. but there's a difference between a veteran and a combat veteran.... Know which you are and don't claim to be one that you're not. A single deployment to Qatar persay doesn't make you a combat veteran..

Response by SSG Carl Kirkey made May 21 at 2018 9:36 PM

SSG Carl Kirkey — Mon, 21 May 2018 21:36:58 -0400

First enlistment

Response by Sgt Don James made May 21 at 2018 9:40 PM

Sgt Don James — Mon, 21 May 2018 21:40:02 -0400

If you made it through bootcamp and served your mos one day or 4 years your a vet it been earned

Response by SSG Carl Kirkey made May 21 at 2018 9:42 PM

SSG Carl Kirkey — Mon, 21 May 2018 21:42:57 -0400

I retired (medically) 18 years 10
Months 22 days. All my time was in the medical Corp. I consider a vet as anyone that serves his country honorably.

Response by SGT Kythen Alexander made May 21 at 2018 9:46 PM

SGT Kythen Alexander — Mon, 21 May 2018 21:46:40 -0400

Honorable discharge of at least one Enlistment contract with a DD214. Seems pretty simple and straight forward. Unless you're medically honorably discharged for injury or combat related actions prior to end of contract. Either way honorable service is really key.. I guess a general discharge could be considered acceptable as well.

Response by SPC David Ryan made May 21 at 2018 10:01 PM

SPC David Ryan — Mon, 21 May 2018 22:01:14 -0400

I would think you should have to fulfill your initial enlistment agreement and be honorably discharged but, hey that's just me.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2018 10:17 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 May 2018 22:17:09 -0400

Just a thought, I really hate when boot camps ask for a military discount or get pissy when young military members don’t get one. If you have not completed one tour... just one tour, you do not qualify in my opinion. If you cannot make or honor your commitment, you do not deserve the title. Period. If you simply want to get out because the military is not for you, then do your time and get out. DD, BCD, OTH, and even some Generals should not count as veterans. Those who want to dispute their discharge can do so under the BCNR or other branch equivalents.

Other than that, anyone who completed a tour and was discharged honorably, is a veteran in my opinion. Do not get offended, this is just my opinion. Take it or leave it.

Response by PO2 Walter Relling made May 21 at 2018 11:28 PM

PO2 Walter Relling — Mon, 21 May 2018 23:28:29 -0400

I don't know about now but I Ty think when I got out you had to have seen some sort of action, medal Dorothy action to be considered a veteran for particular benefits afforded to veterans

Response by PO2 Walter Relling made May 21 at 2018 11:29 PM

PO2 Walter Relling — Mon, 21 May 2018 23:29:54 -0400

Medal worthy...

Response by Robert Rumfelt made May 21 at 2018 11:43 PM

Robert Rumfelt — Mon, 21 May 2018 23:43:03 -0400

Ok, so this situation comes up with me a lot. I fall into a category that is in one way unique and another way not. I enlisted and fought up to my last week of AIT before being sent home for my knees failing. However my DD214 shows otherwise, and of course I was going back in and broke my back.
That is the synopsis of my background story, and yes there is a lot more of the whole back and forth thing, but here is my points to this question.
1) I do not claim any status for I do not feel I earned it. I do tell people I enlisted but it is a long story and tell them the same background story which I can prove.
2) I have many friend active, reserve and retired military that say I should claim it because I had the balls to sign my life to a check that was blank. This I disagree but when faced with their presence I allow them to say their peace out of respect.
3) For me I do not feel as if I earned any right to better status but my discharge was general so under code I could claim it, but I refuse to do so.
4) My Dad is a combat vet, my best friend is a combat vet, along its many others I know and respect, and for those who served full term or deployed I do not claim this honor for it belongs to them.
Now this is the first time I spoke on any of these forums, just because I do not feel that I have earned such a right, but on this one I felt I had too. So when I get asked about veteran status this is my reply:
“I am not a veteran, I am a person who took the oath and tried to accomplish what many have done before me and after me. I am not a veteran but an American who will not allow the circumstances that Life has put in front of me to keep me from upholding my oath. I may not be a veteran but a patriot heart beats with in my chest and for that I will salute the men and women of our military and thank those who have served. I am an American who tried to be what they are, true hero’s. “
Now that being said I have a friend who tells me to claim said status every time this comes up, and I still stand by I am not a veteran nor will I ever claim to be.
When I see stolen valor that pisses me off more than when someone tells me I am a veteran because I tried. That though is another story.
Now if my comment upsets some or all of you I am sorry but I felt I must at least chime in on this topic.
Thank you to you all for what you have done and continue to do. You don’t know me but I know if our paths ever crossed I would say thank you and I’m doing so I am truly saying thank you for filling in for me and the sacrifices I know I couldn’t make that you make in my stead.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2018 1:54 AM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 May 2018 01:54:58 -0400

4years plus

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2018 5:36 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 May 2018 05:36:00 -0400

So I really put some though into this and I do want feed back I have had 6 years in the guard with 6 more coming up and plan to do a full 24 years of service. I have had sever leg surgery and health complications (hence my rank) but I will going on my first deployment as an asset and a knowledgeable soldier. But do I classify as a veteran before or after the deployment?

Response by SSG Adam Long made May 22 at 2018 6:58 AM

SSG Adam Long — Tue, 22 May 2018 06:58:37 -0400

Only a POG would ask this question. You know if you’re a veteran.

Response by PO1 Richard Ferguson made May 22 at 2018 7:57 AM

PO1 Richard Ferguson — Tue, 22 May 2018 07:57:11 -0400

I did my 20. By definition a veteran is one who serves a minimum of 180 days active and continuous service. I think it should be one full enlistment period unless wounded but that's me.

Response by LCpl Herbert Lewis made May 22 at 2018 7:57 AM

LCpl Herbert Lewis — Tue, 22 May 2018 07:57:28 -0400

I must agree, we all served in whatever way that we did...still a team member that supports itself and each other. In fact, isn't that the definition of a team? Every member has a specific job to perform, a cook has to feed the mechanic, rifleman, admin clerk etc.If you did your job then your a veteran.

Response by Sgt Jim Green made May 22 at 2018 8:36 AM

Sgt Jim Green — Tue, 22 May 2018 08:36:16 -0400

If you refuse to do your job, you will likely be court-martialed. We all sign up and understand that if my duty requires that I man a weapon and utilize it against another man who’s doing the same, then, so be it. That’s what makes you a veteran. Giving however much the job requires at the time.

Response by PVT Clarence Peska made May 22 at 2018 9:30 AM

PVT Clarence Peska — Tue, 22 May 2018 09:30:35 -0400

This question should never be asked because whether you got out with sm honorably or other way you or we are all veterans after you complete training do put it to rest once and for all.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made May 22 at 2018 9:36 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Tue, 22 May 2018 09:36:00 -0400

20 years plus or medical discharge. Served during a time of war on active duty after Ait and Boot camp This also depended on what type of discharge you got if it is dishonorable you may not receive Veterans status. Now I am sure todays Military is different and you a veteran after raising your hand to say your oath of enlistment But this Is the way it used to be.

Response by SP5 Ed Collins made May 22 at 2018 10:03 AM

SP5 Ed Collins — Tue, 22 May 2018 10:03:30 -0400

I feel that anyone who put on a uniform should have veteran status , no matter rank,reason for leaving, or branch, it takes a special few to stand up and be counted, it took a long time for me to say Im a veteran because of what I faced after I got back to the real world! Be proud or your time and comitment to our Great Country! R.L.T.W. Hooah!

Response by SFC Robert Walton made May 22 at 2018 10:26 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Tue, 22 May 2018 10:26:41 -0400

180 days on Active Duty During a Military Conflict and served Honorably.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2018 11:36 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 May 2018 11:36:15 -0400

The only difference I see is ive been in 10 years and never deployed. I consider myself a veteran. Then there are soldiers that have deployed, regardless of the rank and how long they've been in to me they are combat veterans.

Response by SN Joe Padgett made May 22 at 2018 12:37 PM

SN Joe Padgett — Tue, 22 May 2018 12:37:17 -0400

We are all brothers and sisters in arms. Anyone that has taken the pledge has accepted the fact they could give their life for our country. Even if they were injured in training and discharged for medical reasons they still deserve the respect for taking that oath. As long as their DD214 doesn't say "dishonorable" then their actions earned them the title of veteran.

Response by CPL David Newsome made May 22 at 2018 1:09 PM

CPL David Newsome — Tue, 22 May 2018 13:09:11 -0400

That should be Sp. 4th class but it wouldn't let me put tgat

Response by PO2 Michael Vecchione made May 22 at 2018 3:24 PM

PO2 Michael Vecchione — Tue, 22 May 2018 15:24:49 -0400

Big Chicken Dinner, any discharge other than honorable should strip the title of whatever service you were in.

Response by PO2 Michael Vecchione made May 22 at 2018 3:27 PM

PO2 Michael Vecchione — Tue, 22 May 2018 15:27:33 -0400

I also Think that if you get out honorably and you decide to shoot up a church, school or just even someone who is trying to lend a helping hand. Stolen valor doesn’t sit well with me. If your a marine, prove it, if you served in the SEAL’s, prove it. Don’t be fake.

Response by SPC Greg Miller made May 22 at 2018 5:12 PM

SPC Greg Miller — Tue, 22 May 2018 17:12:54 -0400

My brothers above have said it all. I agree with them and have no futrther need too comment any futher

Response by SPC Michael Starr made May 22 at 2018 5:18 PM

SPC Michael Starr — Tue, 22 May 2018 17:18:46 -0400

Boots on ground in a hostile environment. Just long enough to change your prospective of the words incoming/contant/FUCK!!!... but freaking first call in Kuwait is not gonna cut it... the whole squad dove for cover before we knew it... dudes who had been there for their whole "deployment" where laughing at us... seems like noone earned an infantry/combat badge... I didn't care to learn their stories....

Response by PO2 David Lengyel made May 22 at 2018 5:26 PM

PO2 David Lengyel — Tue, 22 May 2018 17:26:58 -0400

Most people don't even think of Serving. One Percent?. If someone gives the Military a chance and can't conform I give them Credit for Trying. Better then the Bitch that spit on my Uniform at an A's Game in 1973. Some people just have a hard time conforming to Military Life and the Mindset. But to Label someone Dishonorable or Unfit because he smoked pot or was lazy doesn't mean the Government has the Right to Label someone Unamerican when most people do absolutely nothing but leash from the Government.

Response by Sgt Kevin Delong made May 22 at 2018 5:49 PM

Sgt Kevin Delong — Tue, 22 May 2018 17:49:42 -0400

Compleation of 1st enlistment.

Response by SFC Danny McDaniel made May 22 at 2018 7:00 PM

SFC Danny McDaniel — Tue, 22 May 2018 19:00:17 -0400

I believe that it should be after completing their first enlistment.

Response by SSG Nathan Mitchell made May 22 at 2018 7:00 PM

SSG Nathan Mitchell — Tue, 22 May 2018 19:00:31 -0400

You get a DD214 (orstate equvilant) with better than dishonorable, you get to call yourself a veteran.

Response by CPO Cheryl Oldendick McDaniel made May 22 at 2018 7:54 PM

CPO Cheryl Oldendick McDaniel — Tue, 22 May 2018 19:54:20 -0400

Well, here’s my story.. short and sweet. I served a little over 2 years active duty Air Force, 6 years Air Force Reserve and the remaining 13 years in the Naval Reserve retiring as a Chief Petty Officer. I did annual training in Alaska, Germany, and throughout the USA. I did not deploy to a war zone and don’t have medals to reflect that. Highest medal earned was Navy Achievement Medal, and because I was on active duty during Vietnam “conflict” I have National Defense Service Medal. For many years I felt my service wasn’t as important as my fellow active duty shipmates serving underway, but I’ve been able to reconcile to myself that I did contribute throughout my career as being trained and ready to go anywhere if directed. I would think as a retired senior NCO, that qualifies me as a true veteran and am honored to be in such great company.

Response by PO3 David Lounsberry made May 22 at 2018 8:13 PM

PO3 David Lounsberry — Tue, 22 May 2018 20:13:23 -0400

Need to complete training and qualifications at first command.

Response by Sgt David Cook made May 22 at 2018 8:20 PM

Sgt David Cook — Tue, 22 May 2018 20:20:24 -0400

I spent nine (9) years in the Marines but since it was all peacetime, I’ve heard grumbling among combat vets I’m not “really” a vet. Pisses me off. I’m s vet but not a combat vet.

Response by PO3 Christe Campbell made May 22 at 2018 8:54 PM

PO3 Christe Campbell — Tue, 22 May 2018 20:54:01 -0400

Did you serve? You are a Vet.

Response by HN Douglas Harmon made May 22 at 2018 8:58 PM

HN Douglas Harmon — Tue, 22 May 2018 20:58:23 -0400

Complete first enlistment

Response by CPL Andrew Stevens made May 22 at 2018 9:44 PM

CPL Andrew Stevens — Tue, 22 May 2018 21:44:59 -0400

Nobody is answering the damn question. The answer is no. If you failed to adapt and did not finish basic/boot or initial training, then you are not a veteran. You volunteered and signed up agreeing to fight for your country and failed to live up to your promise. If, however, you signed up, did your agreed upon term, and were honorably discharged, then regardless of deployment status, you are a veteran.

Response by PVT Dan Cisneros made May 22 at 2018 9:48 PM

PVT Dan Cisneros — Tue, 22 May 2018 21:48:48 -0400

I dont wanna say my story in full but i was in the army. I graduated basic almost graduated from A.I.T(6 1/2 months) when i got the news my mother was dying and did die almost 9 months after my discharge. Anyway I got a little depressed and at 19 yrs old hearing that wasnt easy for me, my mom being the only family and support system i had at that time being that far away from home. And because i let my emotions get to me and listened to other people i got discharged and its 100% my fuck up.What im i getting at? I dont consider myself a veteran and often feel ashamed( i feel ashamed now for writing this)that i let my emotions grab me to a point my dream was shattered. Ive tryed to go back but no luck. And by the way i dont need no sympathy either. Im giving my opinion and point of view. Lets face it basic isnt hard niether is A.I.T compared to out here in the real world or a deployment. So id say if you at least made it 1 year at your duty station. Id agree with the whole if you wore the uniform you are one. But from my stand point some of you gave everything, its not fair to you guys, for people like me to get the same if i havent seen or been where youve been. As i was once told my DS dont give credit unless that credit is due.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2018 9:50 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 May 2018 21:50:34 -0400

Most people feel that if you pass initial entry training and complete your term then you're a veteran. In my personal opinion that just makes you an ex-service member. I personally believe that completing your contract or recieving a discharge other than dishonorable along with time served overseas in a combat enviroment qualifies you as a veteran.

Response by SCPO Brandt Boardman made May 22 at 2018 10:15 PM

SCPO Brandt Boardman — Tue, 22 May 2018 22:15:11 -0400

If you signed your name on the line, took the oath and served honorably, you are a Veteran. As SN White pointed out above, Title 38 is pretty simple and straight forward. All gave some, some gave all. And some of you are just going to have to accept that at face value.

Response by PO2 Bruce Clements made May 22 at 2018 10:48 PM

PO2 Bruce Clements — Tue, 22 May 2018 22:48:08 -0400

Honorable discharge from any service branch should give a person the Veteran status, including medical and PX benefits. Some of us tha served back in the 1950 era only received about 25 dollars a week! This is a meager wage for what we were responsible for, don’t you think?
My generation was exposed to cigarette smoke, asbestos and lead paint, plus agent orange (Vietnam)!!!

Response by PO3 Robert Polhill made May 22 at 2018 11:18 PM

PO3 Robert Polhill — Tue, 22 May 2018 23:18:07 -0400

I know the VA considers you a veteran issue you complete a hundred eighty days of training. But I consider you a servicemen or a veteran if you at least made it through boot camp

Response by Tracy Reichel made May 23 at 2018 12:01 AM

Tracy Reichel — Wed, 23 May 2018 00:01:57 -0400

Ok.. so if a Marine gets discharge (general) for discipline issue. Def within first year (including boot camp) might be within first 6 months. No one sees any issue with him claiming he is a veteran ..ie bumper stickers, vets day discounts, claiming on his business "vet owned"???
I give all people who ever wrote a check to the us govt and even attempted the military credit for just that. But I can't get behind someone who I'm not even sure got out of initial training and was asked politely (general) to leave the Corp. A veteran. Get hurt etc. I think you tried to complete your commitment but discipline??? Nah

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 12:05 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 00:05:48 -0400

Who gives a shit if you did 20 years, 4 years, active duty or reserve. Taking the oath is what puts us all on the same page. No one else is going out there, getting in the shit or police calling until 0000. Once you earn your respective title, do your job and get out honorably, you’re a veteran. Plain and simple.

Response by SSgt Dwaylon Calhoun made May 23 at 2018 12:32 AM

SSgt Dwaylon Calhoun — Wed, 23 May 2018 00:32:30 -0400

To be a considered a veteran you need 180 days of active duty.

Response by Cpl Travis Fredricks made May 23 at 2018 12:34 AM

Cpl Travis Fredricks — Wed, 23 May 2018 00:34:58 -0400

Simple: You serve your time + any honorable discharge = Veteran status

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 12:35 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 00:35:34 -0400

I served in the reserve for six years and extended for two more years I was in training during desert shield and desert storm and I would gladly do it over again would gladly deploy if needed but I am told I am not a veteran because reserve time does not count unless I have deployed

Response by CPO Cheryl Oldendick McDaniel made May 23 at 2018 1:23 AM

CPO Cheryl Oldendick McDaniel — Wed, 23 May 2018 01:23:10 -0400

My military career is a bit unique. I started out active duty Air Force and after a little over 2 years transferred to the Air Force Reserve. Six years later I had opportunity to be recruited into the Naval Reserve and retired as a Chief Petty Officer after 20 qualifying years of service. I regret not ever being deployed or serving on a ship underway. For years I felt my service was not as important because I didn’t serve in a war zone, though I did serve during the Vietnam era. It took a while for me to realize that my service did have merit as I was willing to go anywhere if provided the opportunity. My training took me to Alaska, Germany, and all over the US. I was fortunate to work alongside my active duty counterparts, and honored to be in such great company.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 1:41 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 01:41:50 -0400

I shipped to basic literally two days after high school graduation. I finished basic, but the night before graduation my arm suddenly became insanely swollen. I'm talking tearing skin kind of swollen. I missed graduation because I was in the infirmary for two weeks. I had a major infection and they still have no idea what it was. Anyway I got cleared and sent to AIT. Finished, but was having a few issues with my hand on the injured arm. I ignored it of course. Since I was National Guard I went home.

My unit was told they were going to deploy the following winter so we started training. I passed out on a morning run about the third day there. I was diagnosed with asthma. No one in family had ever had it.

I tried to fight it, but ended up being discharged. Long story a bit shorter. The guard lost my paperwork and my records are all messed up. It took 7 years to get approved for disability for my arm that now has neuropathy that originated in my spine from the infection. It took another 4 years to get my asthma added because we discovered I was exposed to something during training. (Wasn't the only one I later found out)

Never received medical separation or even an honorable.

I don't consider myself a veteran. Never was able to serve probably.

Response by SFC Charles Wilson made May 23 at 2018 8:26 AM

SFC Charles Wilson — Wed, 23 May 2018 08:26:21 -0400

I can't call this one. Certainly one should complete training. I do believe intentions are a factor if during training a accident occurs? But for those who quit or find a way to get out because they can't hack it. I Myself lost my left leg from the knee down. I appreciate a Person who genuinely tried to serve and gave 100 percent. As far as time??

Response by HA Richard Pichette made May 23 at 2018 9:25 AM

HA Richard Pichette — Wed, 23 May 2018 09:25:13 -0400

If you graduated boot camp, your a veteran.

Response by Cpl Ryan Thomas made May 23 at 2018 9:29 AM

Cpl Ryan Thomas — Wed, 23 May 2018 09:29:10 -0400

Yea you need to atleast make it to the fleet and maybe soend a year there

Response by SN Dan Swisher made May 23 at 2018 11:20 AM

SN Dan Swisher — Wed, 23 May 2018 11:20:55 -0400

I said the Oath,did my enlistment.So be it!

Response by PO2 Gregory Medina made May 23 at 2018 12:49 PM

PO2 Gregory Medina — Wed, 23 May 2018 12:49:53 -0400

I agree as long as you did more than 180 days you are a veteran!

Response by PFC Carl Lepak made May 23 at 2018 2:04 PM

PFC Carl Lepak — Wed, 23 May 2018 14:04:42 -0400

2 years

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made May 23 at 2018 2:45 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Wed, 23 May 2018 14:45:03 -0400

I think you became a veteran when you raised your right hand to defend our country against all enemies both foreign and domestic. End of discussion! You were willing to go into combat if necessary. Thanks for your service Sgt. Elliot you are a part of the 7% of Americans who served our country in the military. God Bless You!

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made May 23 at 2018 2:49 PM

SFC Jim Ruether — Wed, 23 May 2018 14:49:54 -0400

I don't think there is anyone on this site that wouldn't consider you a veteran. Thanks for your service to our country. I hope you recovered from your injuries.

Response by SGT Chuck Leavitt made May 23 at 2018 2:59 PM

SGT Chuck Leavitt — Wed, 23 May 2018 14:59:45 -0400

Airborne cook, with extra combat training. Never deployed, but only because Desert Storm ended...and I got out before 9-11. I am a veteran.

Response by PO3 Craig Metz made May 23 at 2018 3:55 PM

PO3 Craig Metz — Wed, 23 May 2018 15:55:54 -0400

Served four years US Navy January 1975 to January 1979... Duty Stations: RTC Orlando Florida... NAS Millington Tennessee... NAVSTA Rota Spain... NAS Milton Florida .

Response by CW5 Rob Bailey made May 23 at 2018 4:03 PM

CW5 Rob Bailey — Wed, 23 May 2018 16:03:48 -0400

I like the reference to USC Title 38. The willingness to suit to and offer ones life in service to the nation is an undeniable sacrifice.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 5:26 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 17:26:28 -0400

General discharge means you couldn't make it no veteran status Honorable discharge only

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 5:30 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 17:30:38 -0400

I was and always will be a citizen soldier, militia if you will. I swore an oath and as far as I am concerned I have not been relieved of my duty 6 years Honorable discharge

Response by Cpl George Benson made May 23 at 2018 6:00 PM

Cpl George Benson — Wed, 23 May 2018 18:00:18 -0400

Not making progress, pass boot camp or basic training.

Response by SPC Justin Arnbrister made May 23 at 2018 6:20 PM

SPC Justin Arnbrister — Wed, 23 May 2018 18:20:47 -0400

Ok I have to say this question is up here because of people just getting out of training and think they are veterans. I as a veteran (medically discharged after being in Iraq) believe a veteran is anyone who either has served their first contract, honorable discharge or has been deployed. However being deployed makes you a combat veteran. So all you wet nose Training graduates stop asking for veteran discounts and claiming your a vet cause your jut a damn training soldier. Most of you cry cause you have to clean the latrine. Stfu and put your dues in before you claim to be a vet.

Response by PO3 Chris Mavity made May 23 at 2018 7:23 PM

PO3 Chris Mavity — Wed, 23 May 2018 19:23:56 -0400

You should have to complete your first enlistment.

Response by SGT Tina Gaudet Hicks made May 23 at 2018 9:06 PM

SGT Tina Gaudet Hicks — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:06:35 -0400

If you finished your initial commitment or were released through no fault of your own - you are a veteran.

In my humble opinion

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 10:14 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:14:28 -0400

If a person chooses to be a volunteer fireman and, for 25 years, no fires occur, did the person actually serve?

"Those who wait still serve."

Response by SGT Kenneth Striggow made May 23 at 2018 10:31 PM

SGT Kenneth Striggow — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:31:48 -0400

Honestly I would say a Veteran is someone who deployed. Served their time and got out with other than a dishonorable discharge. I'm not just saying to combat zones like I served in, but even if it was just state side crisis response. Honestly if you couldn't make the cut or hack the military lifestyle and don't make it to a duty station or finish out your contract, well the your just a Blue Falcon.

Response by SPC Travis French made May 23 at 2018 11:31 PM

SPC Travis French — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:31:06 -0400

Veterans are people that have completed a term of service with honor. Then there's combat veterans, and combat veterans are people that have completed a deployment and actively engaged the enemy.

Response by SSgt Keith Carter made May 23 at 2018 11:36 PM

SSgt Keith Carter — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:36:40 -0400

It seems to me if you meet your contracted obligation and discharge you are a veteran. Now those in the civilian world don't always have a frame of reference as to how everyone has a job to do in the service, from cooks to pilots, each has a part in the whole. I personally spent 6 years toward the end of the Cold War and was proud of my role, my job, my contribution. I never saw combat, but I am proud to be a veteran.

Response by PO2 John Kilbreth made May 24 at 2018 6:08 AM

PO2 John Kilbreth — Thu, 24 May 2018 06:08:54 -0400

Idiotic argument the standard is already set. You become a member of what ever branch you chose upon graduation from basic training. The Marine Corps is the only service that does it right. They do not give you a globe and anchor until you graduate from basic. As long as you served and were discharged honorably, you are a veteran, the time frame is irrelevant.

Response by SPC Beverly Wolford Lamb made May 24 at 2018 8:35 AM

SPC Beverly Wolford Lamb — Thu, 24 May 2018 08:35:49 -0400

Why ask such a question? If you received a discharge of anything other than dishonorable you are a veteran period.

Response by SGT Brandon Winfield made May 24 at 2018 3:41 PM

SGT Brandon Winfield — Thu, 24 May 2018 15:41:29 -0400

Who gives a fuck. Who am I to tell someone I don't know that his or her service doesn't count? Are there some douche bag welfare recipients out there in boots? Sure are. Are you one of them? That seems like the only relevant question.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 8:29 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 08:29:41 -0400

Who gives a shit?

Response by PFC Rian Axelson made May 25 at 2018 3:12 PM

PFC Rian Axelson — Fri, 25 May 2018 15:12:31 -0400

I was deployed within five months of completing One Station Unit Training. I was honorably discharged about a year before my contract was up. I've been told by VA representative S that I'm not eligible for care. I'm service connected now but holy hell did I get put through the ringer.

Response by SGM Jeffrey Hall made May 25 at 2018 6:09 PM

SGM Jeffrey Hall — Fri, 25 May 2018 18:09:31 -0400

Completion of your first contract or the return from a combat deployment are the general yardsticks for being considered a veteran.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 10:51 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 22:51:14 -0400

I think what the issue might stem from is what a war veteran and a veteran is. If you served honorably and got out you are a veteran, no side notes or bs extra qualifications, simply the rules per instructions. A war veteran is something slightly more to me and applies to actually getting out into the thick of it, no matter the role. If your job is a mechanic and you deploy, your version of fighting is repairing whatever equipment you are assigned to at any cost. Same with any job. Can't say some jobs don't put them in the way more then the rest but to spit on your comrades because you think you're better is despicable and I consider you not a veteran. We're family after all and there is no excuse for it.

Response by SMSgt Carlos DeMattos made May 27 at 2018 11:34 AM

SMSgt Carlos DeMattos — Sun, 27 May 2018 11:34:03 -0400

If you served you are deserving of being called a bet. Me I did 26 years, got a few medals

Response by Gerald Stauff made May 27 at 2018 3:19 PM

Gerald Stauff — Sun, 27 May 2018 15:19:12 -0400

My son served honorably over seas came home and took his own life..I got no government help and the damn va says he's not a vet he got awards medals..it will be 2 years 1August I have got my senator involved I shouldn't have to be fighting for my son to be called a vet...our government is a frigging joke

Response by SSG Randall Speck made May 27 at 2018 7:37 PM

SSG Randall Speck — Sun, 27 May 2018 19:37:38 -0400

Serve any time in a hazardous duty pay area. It will show up on your DD-214! Yes, even if you fly over the area! That's what I've always been told! Someone help me out here!

Response by SGT Archie Beavers made May 27 at 2018 9:44 PM

SGT Archie Beavers — Sun, 27 May 2018 21:44:51 -0400

Done the regular Army stuff, went National Guard and Civil Service as Guardsman, then went AGR at National Guard Training School. Not once, did I deployed outside CONUS. Respect those that seen action, but glad I didn't. Veteran is someone who did the training and serving and got out Honorably, regardless of circumstances

Response by Cpl Richard Hall made May 28 at 2018 8:01 AM

Cpl Richard Hall — Mon, 28 May 2018 08:01:12 -0400

If you served any time at all I myself think you have earned the veteran title

Response by Cpl John Grier made May 28 at 2018 1:38 PM

Cpl John Grier — Mon, 28 May 2018 13:38:59 -0400

Completion of Boot camp

Response by SGT Brett Murray made May 28 at 2018 2:26 PM

SGT Brett Murray — Mon, 28 May 2018 14:26:45 -0400

Combat tour or bust

Response by Cpl Bennie Carpenter made May 28 at 2018 7:59 PM

Cpl Bennie Carpenter — Mon, 28 May 2018 19:59:59 -0400

I’ve always heard that it’s 180 days but I and every Marine will tell you that if you earned your EGA, you are a Marine. So let’s say you earn your EGA and before 180 days for whatever reason and it’s not a BCD or dishonorable, then your not a veteran? How can someone be considered a Marine but not a veteran? That makes no since to me. As for what we did or didn’t do in there? I was crash crew for 4 years and got out honorably. I been to some crashes and whatnot but I never saw combat or deployed and I have a special respect for those who did, but I’m still a veteran. I took the same oath and was willing to go, it’s not my fault I was never called to do so. So, I have a special respect for combat vets, but the rest of us are veterans too.

Response by PO3 Michael Sconyers made May 28 at 2018 8:29 PM

PO3 Michael Sconyers — Mon, 28 May 2018 20:29:38 -0400

Here is my humble opinion . You should not qualify as a veteran until you fulfill your contract or you are medically discharge.. I have really good friends that got out because the military didn't agree with them personally and religious reasons.. still I tease them about it.. some of them are reviving full veteran benefits and that I dont agree with but I dont hate them for it..

Response by SA James Vazquez made May 28 at 2018 9:21 PM

SA James Vazquez — Mon, 28 May 2018 21:21:38 -0400

4 years

Response by CPL Keith Green made May 28 at 2018 10:05 PM

CPL Keith Green — Mon, 28 May 2018 22:05:26 -0400

I agree Sgt G

Response by SPC Paul Goodfellow made May 28 at 2018 11:49 PM

SPC Paul Goodfellow — Mon, 28 May 2018 23:49:34 -0400

I served from 1974 to 1977,I'm considered a"Vietnam Era Veteran ",however I find that misleading and terribly inappropriate for the simplest reason. I Just joined after the shooting stopped and had real veterans as my teachers.May the Gods Bless us All.

Response by SP6 Peter Kreutzfeldt made May 29 at 2018 3:45 PM

SP6 Peter Kreutzfeldt — Tue, 29 May 2018 15:45:06 -0400

my two little daughters are former Cat. in the Air Force and I have a hard time being them as veterans, but I had better get used to it clause they are and I am very proud of them

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2018 9:04 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 31 May 2018 09:04:14 -0400

Honorable DD214.
Thats it

Response by PFC Charles Grice made May 31 at 2018 2:54 PM

PFC Charles Grice — Thu, 31 May 2018 14:54:53 -0400

Time doesn't matter if you raised your hand took the oath completed training made it your first unit got out before your time was up due to an injury your a vet. #2 raised your hand took the oath completed training made it to first unit deployed came home got hurt got medical your a vet #3 did the oath raised your hand completed term of service with or without a deployment honorable discharge your a vet #4 took the oath raised the hand broke the ucmj or broke civilian law got dishonorable discharge you are NOT A VET because you dishonored what we all stood for. I am a combat vet and proud of it and i will defend anyone who has fallen under the first three categories fall under the fourth and sorry your out

Response by PFC Rodger Williams made May 31 at 2018 6:11 PM

PFC Rodger Williams — Thu, 31 May 2018 18:11:05 -0400

It should not matter if you got to have the honor of combat, we all signed our name and took the pledge to protect our country from all threats both foreign and domestic, we were all brave enough to take that seriously and should be treated as such, 13b kings of battle,

Response by SSG Kevin Ruetsche made Jun 1 at 2018 8:04 AM

SSG Kevin Ruetsche — Fri, 01 Jun 2018 08:04:01 -0400

What we must understand is what the regulation puts forward plus once you sign on that dotted line and serve honerably you are in my opinion a vet and a brother

Plus you can’t judge or base it on what mos you had or if you were deployed each soldier is in a different position some are not deployed so they can do there job to support the brothers who are
Case in point I served 24 yrs active and reserve and retired I was in starting in 1975 which was the end of Vietnam nam till 1999 I volunteered for the first gulf war put was told by my battalion commander my skills were needed conus to help support those who were getting deployed well that’s just my opinion

Response by SSG Randall Ford made Jun 1 at 2018 10:12 AM

SSG Randall Ford — Fri, 01 Jun 2018 10:12:10 -0400

Sounds like PFC Dobkins has experiance some sort of snafu. From his verbage, I would likely say he brought it on himself

Response by LCpl Jonathan Paquette made Jun 1 at 2018 5:18 PM

LCpl Jonathan Paquette — Fri, 01 Jun 2018 17:18:46 -0400

Did you sign the dotted line? Did you don the uniform? Were you discharged under any conditions other than dishonorable? If you can answer those three questions with a yes then you are a veteran. End of discussion. I know plenty of active duty Marines who never deployed. I know plenty of Reservists who were deployed. All Are Veterans. Get over yourselves, how many of you are BOOTS? Who cares?

Response by Cpl Billy Ashworth made Jun 2 at 2018 3:40 PM

Cpl Billy Ashworth — Sat, 02 Jun 2018 15:40:19 -0400

I served in the Marine Corps for ten years the only ribbons or medals I am authorized to wear are two Good Conduct Ribbons

Response by SCPO Mari Jo Skjeie made Jun 2 at 2018 7:47 PM

SCPO Mari Jo Skjeie — Sat, 02 Jun 2018 19:47:47 -0400

180 days is what the VA says but I am sure there are exceptions. This does not include those who separate with a dishonorable discharge.

Response by PO2 George Hauk Sr. made Jun 3 at 2018 9:12 AM

PO2 George Hauk Sr. — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 09:12:07 -0400

I was a Submariner so I tell my 2 youngest that are Marines that I was a Marine too. lol

Response by SGT Chad Sell made Jun 3 at 2018 9:44 AM

SGT Chad Sell — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 09:44:13 -0400

Why is this question being asked? What is the iissue?

Response by SGT Barbara Hunker made Jun 5 at 2018 3:12 PM

SGT Barbara Hunker — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 15:12:09 -0400

I believe anyone that has honorably served our country in any branch of service and discharged should be considered a Veteran.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 6 at 2018 2:25 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 14:25:58 -0400

I've only just started out my career in the US Army. Being from a line of family members who also served in the military I personally use the term of veteran only towards those who have served their time in the service no matter what unit, job, station, etc. It's all about the respect that you either have, will, or could have been deployed at any moment for an extended period of time. Giving up your freedom as a citizen (to an extent as listed in your rights under the UCMJ) and putting your time towards something bigger than yourself. I am nowhere near the title of veteran so for those people who are only in BCT/AIT I would find it shameful to try and call themselves "veterans" since you were never even deployable at any moment in time during training. I've ran into people here and say they've endured everything being in BCT/AIT so they feel like they deserve that title. All I end up thinking to myself is "That title isn't something you 'deserve' it's something you earn". As for people who participate in stolen valor I pity them for needing to make themselves feel more important by displaying the uniform that so many brave soldiers have sacrificed their life in just to get a little glory. As well as for anyone who is in the service but lies about their job it's just wrong. You have the service no matter what your job is. Be proud to serve for the nation you love. Don't give yourself credit where it's not due. I will always respect any veteran of any service no matter how many years they have served or what they did. Especially now that I know once I leave my AIT in July I will be ready to deploy at any time.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2018 4:44 AM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 04:44:02 -0400

My brother was in maybe only 3 years when a dormant uncurable disease went off because if his change in environment triggered it. The marines medically discharged him because he wasnt deployable ready. And I sometimes i feel like he doesn't see himself as a veteran because he wasnt in long and didnt do as much as other marines. But he went out there and he made a commitment to serve his country. What happened to him was unfortunate and it broke him... he was a marine through and through. He still is to me. And a veteran.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2018 5:36 AM

1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 05:36:32 -0400

20 years of honorable service

Response by SP5 Thomas Jameson made Jun 7 at 2018 10:06 AM

SP5 Thomas Jameson — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 10:06:23 -0400

VA in Fort Collins, CO tried to tell me Vietnam Era Veteran was the same as a Vietnam Veteran. As a VNEV, I say “oh, bullshit”.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Jun 8 at 2018 8:24 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 08:24:14 -0400

Bottom line ......Read the Reg's if you do NOT qualify by the Reg's then your not Period.

Response by SMSgt Jerry Tremmel made Jun 11 at 2018 7:22 PM

SMSgt Jerry Tremmel — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 19:22:33 -0400

I feel that as a minimum a person should complete their first enlistment unless medically discharged after completing basic training. The only exception would be a service related injury and discharge in Basic Training.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2018 11:14 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 23:14:14 -0400

I just recently hit my 12 your mark in the army. I have been in the reserves the entire time; but, there is a three year timeframe in which I was on ADOS as a drill sergeant. I don't go around calling myself a veteran by any means; but, I have the training in addition to have trained others in order to make our military as a whole better. It says US Army on the left patch that we wear. It doesn't say active, reservist, National Guard, or even have your MOS on it. On that same note, do not put yourself above others who have not served, or are in a different branch. You will never hear me start off any conversation with, "As a veteran...." Because that is implying to others, that I have a higher value of myself than them. It is a big turn off to many who just want to know what you think. In closing, do the best at what you signed up to do. Rather you are a mechanic, CBRN, medic, HR, JAG, enlisted, warrant, officer, end up stateside or overseas, you are a valued member of the greatest fighting force on the planet. #OneTeamOneFight

SSG Smith

Response by LTC Jim Pickens made Jun 12 at 2018 9:37 AM

LTC Jim Pickens — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 09:37:06 -0400

180 good days.

Response by PO1 Don Rowan made Jun 12 at 2018 11:19 AM

PO1 Don Rowan — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 11:19:20 -0400

Outside those injured or medically separated I think one tour is sufficient.

Response by SA Wayne Chapin made Jun 12 at 2018 1:57 PM

SA Wayne Chapin — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 13:57:33 -0400

Dumbest question I always get is "how long were you in?" As if your time spent in- service has any relative bearing on your accomplishments.

Response by PO2 Jeremy Critcheloe made Jun 12 at 2018 11:27 PM

PO2 Jeremy Critcheloe — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 23:27:07 -0400

If you took the oath and did your duty the best that you could then you are a veteran we all signed and I consider all I meet that have a veteran some are more decorated than others but still all veterans. It takes more than one to accomplish the goal

Response by LTC John King made Jun 14 at 2018 11:31 AM

LTC John King — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 11:31:08 -0400

Satisfactory completion of agreed service obligation.

Response by LTC Jr Hutto made Jun 14 at 2018 1:46 PM

LTC Jr Hutto — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 13:46:51 -0400

This is the absolute best and most honest and objective explanation anyone on this thread has written. Much respect for your research and your common sense explanation of federal law. I suspect many who aren't actually eligible for VA benefits want to be called 'veterans' is the problem here. Sounds like some want a "participation" award like they now do in grade school sports 'competitions'.

Response by Jonathan Zimmerman made Jun 21 at 2018 1:16 AM

Jonathan Zimmerman — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 01:16:10 -0400

In my opinion, anyone who served honorable time is respected. However, a cook is not as much considered a veteran as the guy in 11Bravo and deployed.

Response by TSgt James Lacey made Jun 23 at 2018 11:00 PM

TSgt James Lacey — Sat, 23 Jun 2018 23:00:41 -0400

the requirement for actual recognition as a veteran by the VA is 180 days honorable service.

Response by SP5 Robert Cole made Jun 24 at 2018 7:18 PM

SP5 Robert Cole — Sun, 24 Jun 2018 19:18:54 -0400

That's what the regs say

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2018 9:19 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 21:19:01 -0400

My feeling is l wore the same uniform as the 82nd or 101st. I didnt deploy but was ready. Did my 6 yrs. and recieved an honorable discharge but the military and my state say lm not avet so l guess lm not .

Response by SSgt Patrick Kinzig made Jun 29 at 2018 7:00 AM

SSgt Patrick Kinzig — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 07:00:19 -0400

Maybe it is my Low Self-Esteem kicking in. I Served 12 1/2 years in the Air Force, and was discharged
Honorably under A.F. Reg 35-11 Failure my Maintain Weight Standards ( I got too Fat ). By all accounts I am a Veteran, but somehow in my mind I feel I failed and do not think I qualify for Veteran Status.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2018 1:50 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 13:50:57 -0400

I spent eight years in the National Guard did my basic and AIT training Damned if I cannot call myself a veteran If uncle Sam called my unit to war I would have gone in a heartbeat I have a DD 214 that tells me I have an honorable discharge I knew going in that I didn't qualify for GI benefits set aside for the regular full time Army enlisted men But I put on that uniform the same way they did and completed the same training they did And if our unit was called up I would have risked my life too because I joined the military to serve my country and I am proud to say that I am a proud to be a veteran

Response by SSgt Glenn Pierce made Jul 3 at 2018 5:24 AM

SSgt Glenn Pierce — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 05:24:53 -0400

Apologies if this shows up twice, I think I accidently deleted my first draft.

In 1966, I enlisted in the Air Force. I took the oath to preserve and protect...., defend against all enemies.....obey all orders....etc. I was ordered to bases in Texas and Ohio, and I obeyed the orders. I served 4 years, two months active duty, 5 years reserve, honorably discharged as SSGT, AFSC 90450, which means I worked in hospitals. No deployments, no combat, no one ever shot at me, I never touched another government issued weapon after basic. However, I am a veteran! I’m not a combat veteran, never claim to be, never pretend to be. I have enormous respect and admiration for those who are. But dont tell me I’m not a veteran. (Especially dont tell my (non-combat) veteran wife, a former Air Force nurse, that shes not a veteran. You really dont want to piss off the Lieutenant.)

To answer the original question, I think once you take that oath, honor and fulfill the oath until you are honorably discharged, you are a vet. Code of Federal Regulations 38 has its rules, VA has its own rules, VFW has its own different rules, etc., and from all the replies above veterans have dozens and dozens of their own rules. My dad, a decorated combat veteran of WWII and Korea, often quoted the wide-spread definition that a veteran was someone, who at one time in his/her life, signed a blank check, payable to the United States of America, in an amount up to his or her life. That definition worked for him.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2018 6:32 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Jul 2018 18:32:31 -0400

We could all be veterans

Response by PO3 Damion Brown made Jul 9 at 2018 4:05 PM

PO3 Damion Brown — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 16:05:21 -0400

Must complete 180 days after boot camp and necessary training to become an eligible veteran unless you are medically discharged with a service connected rating for disability

Response by SSgt David Marks made Jul 13 at 2018 6:52 PM

SSgt David Marks — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 18:52:08 -0400

According to what happened to my daughter in law, it's 18 months for active duty. As for reserves, I don't know.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2018 4:25 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 16:25:02 -0400

I served in the NC Army National Guard for 11 years. Did my basic and AIT at Ft. Gordon, Ga. I was a 31C in HQB of a FABDE. I served proudly and the knowledge of my contribution, veteran or not, gives me the greatest feeling inside. They always use to tell me I wasn't a real veteran because of the ' 180 day ' rule. When I returned to my Guard unit after basic and AIT, I was short the 180, 11 days if I remember correctly. But that never mattered to me, 'cause it wasn't important. The job and doing what I did was. Guess I'm old fashioned that way. In the words of Stan Lee, " 'nuff said "...

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2018 7:18 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 19:18:16 -0400

Here’s the deal.. I started out reserves and served one full contract and then switched to active duty army. I can say 100% that the reserves is necessary but doesn’t do even a quarter of what active duty does. When I was reserves I felt inadequate because I was rightfully a soldier after completing basic training and AIT but felt that i hadn’t fulfilled my commitment to “serve” .. personally I think you need to do an active duty contract or atleast 10 years reserves to wear the “veteran” title. It’s something earned with time and experience.

Response by PO3 Kristine Devlin Murphy made Jul 31 at 2018 9:22 AM

PO3 Kristine Devlin Murphy — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 09:22:03 -0400

From my understanding even if they get chaptered out in IET, they still get a DD214. The only distinction I see is Veteran or Combat Veteran.

Response by PFC Scotty Steele made Aug 8 at 2018 3:15 AM

PFC Scotty Steele — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 03:15:10 -0400

38 U.S. Code § 101 - Definitions
(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."

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Aug 13 at 2018 2:27 PM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 14:27:17 -0400

167 days

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Aug 13 at 2018 2:29 PM

PV2 Glen Lewis — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 14:29:05 -0400

And this is admin and irritating question

Response by SFC Michael Palmer made Aug 16 at 2018 8:53 AM

SFC Michael Palmer — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 08:53:10 -0400

OMG. The law enforcement agency I work for is in the process of approving branch of service pins for our uniforms for "veterans" to wear. When someone said "for any of us who were in the military" you'd have thought someone screamed "Allah u Akbar!" in a synagogue. One lieutenant thinks a "veteran" is only someone who served overseas in a conflict. I and others argue that our people who were in the Guard or Reserve should be allowed to wear it, even if they never deployed. Others are quoting US Code (Title 38, I believe?). Yes, for VA benefits that is the standard, but "veteran" is also a common usage term for anyone who served. I also can't believe that tax dollars are being wasted on man-hours debating this. Seriously? Two of our deputies just shot and killed a teenager and THIS is their concern? We also have a bunch of people who are all gung-ho about wearing "pieces of flair" on their uniforms. These people have either forgotten or never have had to put together a dress uniform. The LAST thing I want is to have to pin MORE crap on my shirt...

Response by SSG Ken Lohmann made Aug 16 at 2018 11:43 PM

SSG Ken Lohmann — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 23:43:02 -0400

Here is a link to a good definition of what the government considers a veteran, it should be noted that being a veteran dose not automatically make you eligible for VA benefits:
URL to article -- https://va.org/what-is-a-veteran-the-legal-definition/
Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran
38 CFR 3.1(d), and Paulson v. Brown, 7 Vet.App. 466, 470 (1995) for benefits.
groups approved for Veteran status under Public Law (PL) 95-202 and 106-259, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iii, 2.K.3

So for example I am going to use my son who was medically discharged, honorable, from navy boot camp. He is a veteran as he completed his service under honorable conditions but he is not eligible for VA benefits as he does not meet the time in service requirements or have a combat tour.

What is a Veteran? The Legal Definition - Veterans Anonymous

A person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.

Response by 1SG William Svoboda made Aug 19 at 2018 10:06 PM

1SG William Svoboda — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 22:06:13 -0400

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. ... They would be considered a veteran no matter how long they served.

For federal medical benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, prior to 7 September 1980 the veteran must have served at least 180 days of active duty, after the above-mentioned date the veteran must have served at least 24 months.

You may be eligible for a VA Home Loan if you meet one or more of the following conditions: You have served 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime, OR. You have served 181 days of active service during peacetime, OR. You have more than 6 years of service in the National Guard or Reserves, OR.

Disability Pension is a benefit paid to wartime veterans with limited income who are no longer able to work. You may be eligible if: you were discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions, AND. you served 90 days or more of active duty with at least 1 day during a period of war time.

Response by PFC Gerald Bailey made Aug 20 at 2018 8:53 AM

PFC Gerald Bailey — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 08:53:28 -0400

I am a Veteran and believe that anyone with an other than dishonorable discharge is a veteran.

Response by SSG Steve Finlan made Aug 20 at 2018 1:32 PM

SSG Steve Finlan — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 13:32:29 -0400

Just my two cents: a Veteran is a Veteran no matter what Service, how long, or which deployments (if any). If you served and complete your time whether it was 3 years or 30, you're a Veteran. That said, it is also my opinion that only Veterans have the right to bag on other Veterans for "quality" of service, typically branch or MOS-based horseplay and such .... but - be nice to the Zoomies. They tend to cry if you pick on them too much.

Response by LTC John Bush made Aug 21 at 2018 9:30 AM

LTC John Bush — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 09:30:24 -0400

Interesting subject. there are laws which determine eligibility for various benefits and these laws have been very liberally interpreted since the politicians came up with the "Vietnam era Veteran" classification as a toll to distribute benefits and curry favor with the public. Under this interpretation if you issued fatigues to trainees at Ft Jackson you are a veteran. Then we get to the practical traditional definition which implied the individual classified as a Veteran had actually participated on the ground (air or sea) in a military campaign. That would imply at least award a campaign ribbon and overseas bars. And finally the term combat veteran which would imply direct contact with the enemy as opposed to pounding a typewriter in a secure area..

Response by SSG Ricky Johnson made Aug 23 at 2018 3:41 PM

SSG Ricky Johnson — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 15:41:11 -0400

This really is not a dumb question. Here in Illinois, if you want to have VETERAN on your drivers license, you must take your DD214 to some county functionary to approve your DD214, that you are a veteran, then go back to the DMV, and pay another $5 to have it added. Go figure.

Response by SSG Ricky Johnson made Aug 23 at 2018 3:43 PM

SSG Ricky Johnson — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 15:43:59 -0400

My brother served 12 years in the California Army National Guard. He is not considered a veteran, cannot claim veterans status.

Response by TSgt Donald Toth made Aug 24 at 2018 2:20 AM

TSgt Donald Toth — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 02:20:49 -0400

The fun part for me has been living near Fort Leonard Wood, MO and all the vocabulary that is associated with the Army. I am a retired USAF NCO and these guys might be speaking a foreign language. I get the MOS/AFSC job code differences but now they changed from dress greens to something like a USMC uniform. My old AFSC, 81170, now is something like the Star Wars robot 3CPOX!?! VA and Army medical staff have been outstanding to an old Air Force NCO.

Response by Sgt Gary Antilla made Oct 1 at 2018 9:19 AM

Sgt Gary Antilla — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 09:19:26 -0400

Setting the Record Straight. .
Federal and State Regulations defines Veteran status, nothing more, nothing less.
If any individual receives a Entry Level Seperation (ELS) , Bad Conduct Discharge or Dishonorable Discharge you are not a Veteran, according to the Department of Defense. Let's say you signed up to join the Marines Corps and for whatever reason, Mentally or Physically you did not finish. That individual would receive an ELS, not an Honorable Discharge or a Discharge under Honorable Conditions, it is simply a Administrative discharge relieving that individual of all commits from The United States Armed Forces. Can you call yourself a Veteran ? The answer is NO, Their is no DD-214 issued, you did not serve the required number of consecutive days of active duty time. What if you sustained injuries during Basic Training, that individual would have been sent to a Medical Rehabilitation Platoon . Once healed you would continue on . If you where unable to the Medical Staff would forward its recommendation to your Commanding Officer for termination. According to the Department of Defense you are still not a Veteran. The only course of action one can take would be filling a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office. If approved you will be given a Service Connected Disability.(this could take years). Then and only then are you considered a Veteran, and then only thru the VA.

Response by SPC Ann V. made Nov 9 at 2018 6:57 PM

SPC Ann V. — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 18:57:36 -0500

Just wandered in to this question through Google, but I really appreciate what some of you are saying. I served in the military from 1984 to 1988 and then IRR for a while after that to complete the six years that I had signed up for. When I was in Georgia we were not allowed to go out into town in our uniforms. It was as if it was not a respectable thing to be in the Army especially if you were a woman. I served in Korea and Panama. When I got out I was an Army wife through 2001. I didn't talk about my military service and my husband didn't want me to go into the shop or come to company events. It was only after I started working at a school in PA that I realized that in the "hometown" they loved their people who served. I was in my 40s before I "came out" (LOL) as a Veteran. Years later I found out that most women of my generation who served do not self-identify as Veterans. When I am out and about with my son and he is in uniform, people are rushing up to say "Thank you for serving." It is a whole different world.
I appreciate what you all are saying. I like to think that those of us who served during "peacetime" (Korea in the 80s? Panama in the years leading up to Just Cause?) were "standing in the gap" doing our jobs, in my case maintaining important communication systems, ready to do what we were asked to do for our country. When I say I am a Veteran people seem to think I am making it up and I really don't know what to do with that. Thank you.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 5 at 2018 2:47 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 14:47:03 -0500

My sons are proud that I served and they want a military service when I gone but I don't have the military benefits

Response by SSgt David Marks made Mar 3 at 2019 11:10 PM

SSgt David Marks — Sun, 03 Mar 2019 23:10:50 -0500

Minimum is 180 days active duty.

Response by MSG David Kenney made Sep 25 at 2019 7:50 PM

MSG David Kenney — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 19:50:01 -0400

One enlistment

Response by Sgt John Dougherty made Sep 26 at 2019 1:20 AM

Sgt John Dougherty — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 01:20:45 -0400

Generally, if you complete all basic training and are discharged honorably, be it due to completing your enlistment, retiring, medical, etc. then I think you can call yourself a veteran. JMO

Response by PO1 Chuck Lankford made Sep 27 at 2019 12:46 PM

PO1 Chuck Lankford — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 12:46:35 -0400

I do believe a VETERAN according to the VA is someone who servers at least 180 days and is discharged with any type discharge except OTHER THAN HONORABLE.

Response by SPC Larry Weigel Jr. made Sep 27 at 2019 3:48 PM

SPC Larry Weigel Jr. — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 15:48:41 -0400

If you served, no matter branch or status (i.e. Guard or Reserves), and made it to your first duty station (unless there’s manifest necessity) and have at least a General Discharge then in my opinion you’re a veteran. Now even if you’re a vet and start being a douchebag claiming shit you didn’t earn or do then you lose that title because you have no respect for your comrades.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Sep 27 at 2019 4:04 PM

Sgt Peter Schlesiona — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 16:04:25 -0400

It is a little amusing to see all the emphatic “THIS is the answer” comments that are immediately followed by another - just as emphatic and completely different than the preceding statement. So far, from what I’ve read here, minimum other-than-dishonorable service time ranges from 2 day to 180 days, depends on how much or how little initial training is completed. For people who wash out, it appears to be whether or not they had “heart” or sincere intentions. I’m really having a good time reading all the various opinions.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2019 4:19 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Sep 2019 16:19:52 -0400

I don’t think you can consider yourself a veteran unless you serve in the force proper. Like at a unit, after your initial entry training(basic/job school)

Response by PO3 Richard Darnall made Sep 28 at 2019 9:56 AM

PO3 Richard Darnall — Sat, 28 Sep 2019 09:56:43 -0400

I've been out since 92 and thankfully; as an executive for a global company, we recognize ALL of our employees who have a discharge other than dishonorable. Regardless of the result (medals, rank, time, branch, rating, deployment type or location, etc), they chose to serve. Anyone on here arguing to the contrary is lacking in their military bearing and standards and should be ashamed. If we applied any other standard, we have list our way. That is all.

Response by Capt Richard White made Sep 28 at 2019 10:06 AM

Capt Richard White — Sat, 28 Sep 2019 10:06:37 -0400

Almost two decades passed that I did not consider myself a "Veteran" until a USAF Recruiter explained that if I legally wore the uniform 'one single day,' then I am a "Veteran." However, I may be the "least Veteran" Veteran that most will meet... College Army ROTC (MS-1 & MS-2) w/AFROTC (POC Program) graduated & Commissioned 2nd Lt. in the USAFR. Too many Pilots at the time & I took the Palace Option Program to train as a Personnel Officer serving 90 days Active Duty. Remained in the Ready Reserve 13.5 years (max time as Captain) & Honorably Discharged. Not serving 4 years Active Duty Reserve, I am disallowed any benefits. My outcome was decidedly different, compared to my USAF/USAFR family members:
Father, Col., Pilot, SAC (Ret.)
Brother, Capt., Pilot, SAC (Med.Ret.)
Son, TSGT, C-130 Maintainer (Med.Ret.)
Brother in Law, Lt.Col., Materiel (Ret.)
Sister in Law, CMS, Maintenance (Ret.)
I am OK with it.

Response by Cpl Ed Hines made Sep 28 at 2019 1:57 PM

Cpl Ed Hines — Sat, 28 Sep 2019 13:57:05 -0400

I was a SEAL and a cook. After one mission (they killed the ships Captain who was a friend and father figure), I was able to recruit a stripper (she was brought in for the captains birthday) to assist me in retaking the ship from terrorists. Does this qualify me as a veteran? Asking for a friend.

Response by SGT Robert Armstrong made Sep 28 at 2019 7:47 PM

SGT Robert Armstrong — Sat, 28 Sep 2019 19:47:07 -0400

I thought you had to complete your enlistment clean

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2019 12:57 AM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 00:57:27 -0400

Sgt. not SrA... completing your enlistment contract should qualify you. The branch you served in determined where you went. Some SAC AFSCs were restricted to CONUS.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2019 8:54 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 08:54:55 -0400

There are several time line criteria and definitions within 38 CFR that relates to what a veteran is and where said time frames come into play.

Response by FN Rodney Smith made Apr 28 at 2020 7:14 PM

FN Rodney Smith — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:14:43 -0400

It is a question that will have as many answers as there are people who respond. It all depends on the circumstance, but if they served and have a discharge other than dishonorable I will be happy and proud to call them a veteran.

Response by SPC Ann V. made Oct 23 at 2020 6:45 PM

SPC Ann V. — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 18:45:46 -0400

It's not about opinion. There are specific criteria to determine the status.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Mar 12 at 2022 8:09 AM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 08:09:26 -0500

To be honest ENS Private RallyPoint Member a veteran is any service member who has served in the military long enough to be eligible to be promoted.
I have served for 34 years as an enlisted man[20 months], USMA cadet [46 months], US Army Regular Army officer [12 years] and as a USAR officer [15 years including mobilized for 3 years].
I concur with my friends SN Greg Wright and CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member "Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations defines a veteran as “a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.”
I also concur with my friends SGT Private RallyPoint Member SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth LTC Charles Blake SFC Jim Ruether
FYI Maj Jan Wilson CPO William Glen (W.G.) Powell SPC Bob Ridley MCPO Hilary Kunz GySgt Thomas Vick SPC Maurice Evans PO3 Edward Riddle SPC Private RallyPoint Member CWO4 Terrence Clark CMSgt Marcus Falleaf CDR Andrew McMenamin, PhD

Response by MCPO Hilary Kunz made Mar 12 at 2022 10:25 AM

MCPO Hilary Kunz — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 10:25:09 -0500

As many have reiterated here, it’s in title 38 of the Code of Regulations.
As a fresh JO coming from Chief, you have the unique opportunity to bring your experience and knowledge to the wardroom. Knowing these regs is part and parcel of that. Good job asking these questions, keep going, because you will be the “technical expert” not just in your designator, but in Navy.
Best of luck to you.