I served 8 months. Should I still be considered a veteran with a honorable discharge?

2015-11-28T10:45:33-05:00

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2015 11:54 AM

2015-11-28T11:54:52-05:00

Depends on the reason and type of discharge. If, for example, you were injured and medically discharged, possibly. If you received a discharge for "failure to adapt," probably not. Without more details, it's hard to say.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Nov 28 at 2015 12:11 PM

2015-11-28T12:11:46-05:00

We have a lot of threads on this subject already here. I suggest you do a search and reach some of the thoughts we already shared. You'll notice that most of us will say yes since you completed basic training but I will advise you to talk with a benefits expert to ensure you get all the benefits you are entitled to.

Response by SFC Eric Williams made Nov 28 at 2015 12:14 PM

2015-11-28T12:14:09-05:00

Your a veteran champ! Thank you for your service.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Nov 28 at 2015 12:16 PM

2015-11-28T12:16:59-05:00

1 question: did you graduate BCT? If your answer is yes, then yes. Don't let anyone else tell you otherwise. Thanks for your service brother.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2015 12:31 PM

2015-11-28T12:31:25-05:00

Did you receive an honorable discharge?

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Nov 28 at 2015 1:16 PM

2015-11-28T13:16:59-05:00

Yes, you served honorably. We all have situations that come into our life that sometimes shortens things we intend to do. I am sure you had the right motivation to serve your country. You are a veteran!

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Nov 28 at 2015 1:25 PM

2015-11-28T13:25:52-05:00

PVT Robert Humburg, Did you at least complete BCT and do you satisfy the veteran standards in the regulation? Which regulation I am not sure though but there are federal standards for that. Whether you can yourself a veteran if you should doesn't matter to me.

Response by PO3 Kerry Young made Nov 28 at 2015 1:32 PM

2015-11-28T13:32:17-05:00

If you served... and we're given an Honorable Discharge, then yes, you are a Veteran.

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Nov 28 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-11-28T16:55:41-05:00

You went through basic. You would be considered a veteran. As long as it isn't a BCD, that is.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2015 5:00 PM

2015-11-28T17:00:10-05:00

You should have received some sort of discharge document that includes your discharge status (honorable, other then honorable..etc). I am curious how your parents were able to get you out of the contract

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Nov 28 at 2015 8:21 PM

2015-11-28T20:21:40-05:00

Yes. And thank you for your service.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Nov 28 at 2015 8:41 PM

2015-11-28T20:41:29-05:00

What was the reason for your discharge? What does your 214 say? Unless you were injured in combat, you are likely not eligible for veterans' benefits, which is the most pragmatic benefit of the title veteran...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 28 at 2015 9:02 PM

2015-11-28T21:02:53-05:00

No matter what the reason for not being able to stay with the Army, as long as you are eligible for VA benefits then you are a Veteran. Even though the VA's reputation has been under the laser beam lately, they still do have stringent requirements. And if you qualify for VA benefits, then I know you legitimately served honorably and thus a Veteran. I'm sure you really wanted to stay in, but we all get thrown a curve ball every once in awhile and things change. Thanks for your service!

Response by PO1 John Miller made Nov 29 at 2015 11:09 PM

2015-11-29T23:09:51-05:00

You served more than 180 consecutive days on active duty so your answer is yes.

For all of you questioning Robert's story, he's got a "verified" account so I'm not sure what your argument is?

Response by SrA Daniel Hunter made Nov 29 at 2015 11:34 PM

2015-11-29T23:34:30-05:00

Yes, Title 38 U.S. Code “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 PFC David Ryba made Nov 30 at 2015 10:25 AM

2015-11-30T10:25:14-05:00

Wow! This is really a hot topic. It took me a while to read through all the responses this question generated. As I read through I noticed some of you are looking at what it means to be a veteran from a legal or administrative standpoint. On the other hand, some of you are looking at what it means to be a veteran from a perspective other than administrative/legal.

Tale of two veterans:
Veteran one is me. I was 17 when I enlisted in 1968. I served a little over a year and was discharged, under honorable conditions, because of a medical condition I developed as a result of my military service. Today I am retired and receiving a non-service connected disability pension from the VA.

Veteran two is a bus driver I met last year. He seen the veteran cap I was wearing and started talking about his military experience. Like me, he was 17 years old and served during the Vietnam war. Just after completing basic training he learned that his older brother, also enlisted, was killed in Vietnam. He was offed two options regarding his service. He could either stay in and continue on or he could take a General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions (only surviving son). His CO told him, "Son, you're to young to die. Take the discharge." And so he did.

Should I be considered a veteran? According to the VA, yes. Should the bus driver I met be considered a veteran after completing basic training? According to the VA, no. According to Title 38 US Code, yes...maybe???

Title 38 US Code
§ 101. Definitions
For the purposes of this title—
(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.

The bigger question regrading who is to be considered a veteran is should we be using legal or moral standards? What do you think???

Response by SGT Michael Bond made Nov 30 at 2015 2:47 PM

2015-11-30T14:47:59-05:00

If you recieved a discharge for other than Bad Conduct you are an in Honorable status. Title 38 of the Department of Veterans Affairs governs these discharges, and has authority to change or upgrade a bad conduct with the proper evedence. Contact a Veterans Service Officer with one of the veterans organizations if you need assistance with this or any other veteran realated issue. Good luck and thank you for your service.

Response by SrA Ronald Schwenk Jr made Nov 30 at 2015 3:20 PM

2015-11-30T15:20:55-05:00

You received an Honorable. I myself don't know why and don't care. You were Honorably discharged, you are a veteran.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2015 4:35 PM

2015-11-30T16:35:05-05:00

yes

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Nov 30 at 2015 4:45 PM

2015-11-30T16:45:20-05:00

The technical answer is "Yes, your legally status is 'veteran'" but my question is why did you only serve 8 month? To me that makes a world of difference? If you have an Honorable discharge, that is normally a good sign.

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Nov 30 at 2015 6:04 PM

2015-11-30T18:04:23-05:00

PVT Humburg - There are two basic questions that must be answered to answer your question:
- Did you serve on active duty (and not just for training as a member of the Guard or Reserve)?
- Did you receive a Discharge (DD214) that was not Dishonorable (e.g. Honorable, General, etc..)?
If the answer to both of these questions its yes, then yes, you are a veteran under the legal definiton.

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

The link below may prove useful.

https://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R42324.pdf

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Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Nov 30 at 2015 6:17 PM

2015-11-30T18:17:40-05:00

PVT Humburg - One more source for your use:

https://www.census.gov/hhes/veterans/about/definitions.html

Veterans - Definitions and Concepts - People and Households - U.S. Census Bureau

Veterans. About section. Demographic data and reports from the U.S. Census Bureau

Response by CPT Ahmed Faried made Nov 30 at 2015 8:38 PM

2015-11-30T20:38:28-05:00

Yes.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Nov 30 at 2015 9:26 PM

2015-11-30T21:26:00-05:00

How do parents get you out? What's the rest of the story?

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Nov 30 at 2015 10:35 PM

2015-11-30T22:35:32-05:00

Why not? But don't consider yourself equal to others who completed their term of service.

Response by PO2 Michael Henry made Dec 1 at 2015 1:27 AM

2015-12-01T01:27:51-05:00

Made it out of boot camp, served honorably then yes.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 5:57 AM

2015-12-01T05:57:37-05:00

If you received an honorable discharge then you are a veteran with an honorable discharge..

Response by CPL Larry Carroll made Dec 1 at 2015 8:07 AM

2015-12-01T08:07:28-05:00

Sure you should, you took the oath and swore to protect this great nation. Thanks for your service.

Response by SGT James Nelson made Dec 1 at 2015 8:21 AM

2015-12-01T08:21:11-05:00

what does your DD214 under character of service? Did you complete basic and AIT? if not you are not even considered a veteran it is almost as if your service did not happen

Response by Cpl Robert Clark made Dec 1 at 2015 8:38 AM

2015-12-01T08:38:24-05:00

38 U.S.C. 4215(a) Veteran-Service in the active military, naval or air service and discharge under conditions other than dishonorable. The term "active" means - full-time duty in the Armed Forces, including National Guard or Reserve components, for other than active duty for training.

In a nutshell: 180 days on active duty (outside of Basic Training and initial MOS school)

Response by SSG John Caples made Dec 1 at 2015 9:16 AM

2015-12-01T09:16:09-05:00

I consider you a brother in arms

Response by SPC Eric Cunningham made Dec 1 at 2015 11:22 AM

2015-12-01T11:22:58-05:00

If you got an honorable discharge, yes. I don't know what the length of time you were in for will do about benefits, but you ARE a veteran.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 11:57 AM

2015-12-01T11:57:52-05:00

Veteran is a broad term. We were all taught to share our story, yours simply has fewer chapters than others. You still enlisted, you signed on the dotted line for that blank check up-to-and-including your life, and you were a part of the profession of arms, so yes, you are a veteran. Without knowing the details as to why you only served 8 months, I do know that an honorable discharge gives you a legitimate reason. It's up to you to choose how much of that you want to divulge to others, but the short answer is yes.

Response by CSM William Payne made Dec 1 at 2015 12:36 PM

2015-12-01T12:36:08-05:00

Did you receive a DD-214 for your service? Hard to determine from your question, but did you receive an Honorable Discharge? Putting on the uniform makes you a vet in general terms, but to be a "Veteran" in the legal sense you have to fulfill the following requirements.

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

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

For a Reservist or the National Guard, that means having been called to active duty that was not for training purposes as in Basic Training, AIT, NCOES or other courses, Battle Assembly (MUTAS / Monthly Drills) and Annual Training.

I have three DD-214s; one from the active Army, two from the Army Reserves, one for being mobilized in support of Desert Storm and another for mobilization and deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Any of which qualifies me of being a "Veteran". If I had served my entire 40 years of service in the Army Reserve and was not called to active duty at anytime during that service, technically by the legal definition I would not be a "Veteran".

Response by CPT Carl Kisely made Dec 1 at 2015 12:40 PM

2015-12-01T12:40:06-05:00

If you received an honorable discharge, then yes.

Response by SPC Daniel Engstrom made Dec 1 at 2015 12:51 PM

2015-12-01T12:51:56-05:00

Why does his MOS section state 11C and his professional summary say 14B? Just curious on that one since he only served 8 months. It struck me as odd.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Dec 1 at 2015 1:04 PM

2015-12-01T13:04:40-05:00

Technically yes you are a veteran.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 1:06 PM

2015-12-01T13:06:04-05:00

Length of service is only an issue if you are attempting to use the MGI Bill or the conduct of your service was found wanting of honorable conduct. Which for that last one it comes down to why you were discharged after 8 months of service.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Dec 1 at 2015 1:06 PM

2015-12-01T13:06:53-05:00

Without any doubt you are a veteran PVT Robert Humburg if you served in the US military and were honorably discharged.
None of us are responsible for where we are assigned or deployed to. We can volunteer and submit dream assignment requests; but, others make decisions about where we are assigned or deployed to.
Thankyou for your service.

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made Dec 1 at 2015 1:08 PM

2015-12-01T13:08:09-05:00

If you completed basic and AIT and got an Honerable discharge you are technically a veteran. But as was stated don't try to tell war stories about basic. But you did what many others did ot even try to do. You served or tried to. I thank you for what you did. As they told you check to see what benifits you are eligble for. May not be much but it don't hurt to check.

Response by SPC David Hannaman made Dec 1 at 2015 1:22 PM

2015-12-01T13:22:15-05:00

You received an honorable discharge after 8 months? I didn't think that was possible.

Yes, Honorable discharge = Veteran.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 1:27 PM

2015-12-01T13:27:19-05:00

You have to look on your DD214 (discharge document) and see what the status of your discharge is. If you got out under honorable conditions, then yes.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 1:27 PM

2015-12-01T13:27:58-05:00

If so, then the definition of Veteran needs to be changed.

Response by CH (CPT) Ephraim Travis made Dec 1 at 2015 1:28 PM

2015-12-01T13:28:08-05:00

BLUF: Yes. You raised your right hand and enlisted to serve. Things didn't work out the way you probably hoped but you still received your DD214 with an Honorable Discharge. Be proud that you had the courage to enlist. I live in a community where most folks have never even seen someone in uniform yet I'm constantly being told by someone about how they "almost did..." Fill in the blank with some nonsense. You did it and that's all that matters!

As others have stated, don't be a dirtbag and tell war-stories. If you've got some great stories from BCT and AIT, go for it. As for benefits, you definitely should speak to a counselor.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 1:30 PM

2015-12-01T13:30:01-05:00

People are going to say what ever they want about this. If you meet the criteria then cool go with it. Just be honest when you talk about your service and how it was ended short because of X,Y and Z. Just my 2 cents

Response by SGT Chris Hill made Dec 1 at 2015 1:47 PM

2015-12-01T13:47:00-05:00

By exact definition yes, but that doesn't mean all will agree. My opinion is no, you're not, because you didn't fulfill your entire contract successfully. 8 months is barely long enough to experience basic and AIT which doesn't credit you as serving any time in at least a unit mission, a pcs or deployment.

Don't know the specifics of the reason for your early discharge but my ideas would be failure to adapt or medical discharge. If it's medical, thanks for trying at least, but if it's not a medical reason, you should have some very thick skin to prepare for some harsher opinions.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 1:51 PM

2015-12-01T13:51:23-05:00

Yes you went in made it through basic with full intentions of staying in. Just remain humble don't brag about BMT.

Response by 1SG Bill Wayne made Dec 1 at 2015 2:01 PM

2015-12-01T14:01:09-05:00

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]

What is a War Veteran?

A war veteran is any GI (Government Issue) ordered to foreign soil or waters to participate in direct or support activity against an enemy. The operant condition: Any GI sent in harm's way.

What is a Combat Veteran?
A combat veteran is any GI who experiences any level of hostility for any duration resulting from offensive, defensive or friendly fire military action involving a real or perceived enemy in any foreign theater.
So your a vet. Join the FL not the VFW

Response by SPC Jesse Geist made Dec 1 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-12-01T14:09:12-05:00

Yes

Response by 1SG Bill Wayne made Dec 1 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-12-01T14:09:55-05:00

I can only read a couple of lines on this and do not have a lot of information. Could be ol Robert enlisted under age or was the last in family tree. you got your HD that means welcome back at a later date. Don't worry about it. I would just go see the councilors and live a peaceful life. your not missing much. We who have stayed are beat up and beat down. Would I do it again Hell yes. But at least I would have the understanding that they the administration lies LOL

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Dec 1 at 2015 3:34 PM

2015-12-01T15:34:18-05:00

This is a good question. By all legal rights you are a veteran. I think there has been some terrible assumptions made about what makes someone a veteran lately. For some reason people (soldiers included ) have gotten the idea that "combat vets" are higher on the veteran food chain than others or that they are the only true vets but that seriously takes away from the meaning of why we joined. It also takes away from the true meaning of sacrifice. I personally feel that anyone who completed basic and AIT is a vet. Yes I understand that accidents happen during training but "you" can't call yourself a doctor because you went to med school. You have to finish the training and graduate. I'll give anyone who tried the respect they deserve for simply making the decision. It's not an easy one to make but no, I wouldn't nessary call everyone who tried a vet. A veteran is someone who served their country with honor. If you truly feel that is what you did than you are a veteran, consider yourself one. The opinions of others are just that, opinions.

Response by SSG Javier Antonsanti made Dec 1 at 2015 3:54 PM

2015-12-01T15:54:40-05:00

I read the summary that you posted on your profile, and you stated that you were a 14B, and that you found out at the airport of all places on you're way to Korea, that you're parents got you out of the service. How does that work?

Response by CPO Trinity Sunshine made Dec 1 at 2015 4:32 PM

2015-12-01T16:32:32-05:00

Yes of course. Thank you for your service. CPO, USCG (ret.)

Response by PO1 Joseph Glennon made Dec 1 at 2015 5:09 PM

2015-12-01T17:09:26-05:00

Only if you got an honorable discharge.

Response by PO3 Alan Haynes made Dec 1 at 2015 5:09 PM

2015-12-01T17:09:30-05:00

You are an Honorable Veteran Brother!

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Dec 1 at 2015 5:45 PM

2015-12-01T17:45:34-05:00

Yes if you have an Honorable discharge. If you don't have an honorable discharge you are a vet without.

Response by PV2 Gary Weller made Dec 1 at 2015 6:21 PM

2015-12-01T18:21:35-05:00

Considering the story behind your discharge, I'd have to say that you are not a veteran. In your replies below, I see that "your parents got you out". That doesn't just happen. Especially not to an adult. It sounds to me that you decided that you no longer wanted to be in the military and your parents helped get you out. If you are "entitled" to any benefits, I suggest that you refrain from using them, as they would be better served to injured and combat veterans. I know this isn't what you wanted to hear and I was hoping that you were someone in a similar situation as I was (injured during training). However, you asked the question and this is my answer. You should definitely describe your discharge status a little better in the future.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Dec 1 at 2015 7:32 PM

2015-12-01T19:32:14-05:00

If you got an honorable discharge your definitely a veteran. I served 6 months and 4 days and I'm considered a veteran. As a good friend of mine has told me more than once about the duration of my service; it's not the length of time you served it's that you were willing to serve your country.

Response by Cpl Ray Frigerio made Dec 1 at 2015 8:04 PM

2015-12-01T20:04:06-05:00

Yeah as long as you served honorably. Not everyone gets a war.. Some get many lol

Response by SPC Andrew Griffin made Dec 1 at 2015 8:35 PM

2015-12-01T20:35:26-05:00

HA! HA! That would be a slap in the face to ALL those who lost their lives in Combat! Who made the Ultimate Sacrifice of themselves to save a Comrade! You haven't SEEN anything in "8" Months!

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Dec 1 at 2015 9:01 PM

2015-12-01T21:01:06-05:00

PVT Robert Humburg Yup your a VET. Served at least 6 months Active Duty, Yes you are!!!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 9:52 PM

2015-12-01T21:52:57-05:00

What's the rest of the story?

Response by SFC Dave Gruner made Dec 1 at 2015 10:20 PM

2015-12-01T22:20:58-05:00

Do you possess a certified DD-214? What does it indicate in Block 11a? That should provide your answer.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2015 10:56 PM

2015-12-01T22:56:24-05:00

I served eight years, have multiple deployments, and two CIBs... The answer is the same for both of us. Do you have a DD Form 214? If so, does it say "HONORABLE" in block 24? If the answer to both of those is "yes," you are not "entitled" to call yourself "a veteran with an honorable discharge", you are one.

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made Dec 2 at 2015 12:31 AM

2015-12-02T00:31:35-05:00

Anyone who reports to recruit training is a "veteran" by the strict definition of the word. There are a lot of restrictions on the benefits you can recieve based on your discharge. In my opinion it's all about being honest about the details of your service if asked. When I was in roughly 30% of first term enlistments in the Marines never finished their initial contract. About 10% were discharged in recruit training, the rest were seperated for injuries, misconduct or family hardship. I know of several who were good people, but just weren't cut out to be Marines.

Response by MAJ Karl Knutson made Dec 2 at 2015 1:09 AM

2015-12-02T01:09:33-05:00

Would a man with 20 years service and on terminal leave be a vet if he was put into civilian confinement (Not related to military)? Where do they draw the line?

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Dec 2 at 2015 2:43 AM

2015-12-02T02:43:35-05:00

38 USC 101 "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."

So if the shoe fits, wear it. BTW opinions are one thing, but always go to the source. Notice there's no time element in that definition. What benefits a veteran is entitled to varies from that point on.

Response by COL Andreas de Kunffy made Dec 2 at 2015 7:44 AM

2015-12-02T07:44:57-05:00

I support the law that states 180 days of service and a honorable discharge qualifies you as a veteran. However, I do find it interesting that there are Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen\women, and Marine Reservists and Guardsman that have served for 20, 30, and even 40 years but do not "technically" qualify for full veterans status. The average Reservist and Guardsmen that serves 20 years, never deploys, has over 8 years of "full time service". Congress is about to pass a law giving them the right to be called veterans. I have always believed that my 32 years service qualified me as a Veteran, not the fact that in the last 10 years I deployed several times (allowing me to "break the 180 day window").

Response by TSgt Robert Carter made Dec 2 at 2015 9:02 AM

2015-12-02T09:02:26-05:00

Yes, as long as you graduated from basic training. Welcome aboard!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2015 10:52 AM

2015-12-02T10:52:07-05:00

As far as I am concerned, you are a Vet. Are you a "combat veteran", No.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2015 11:02 AM

2015-12-02T11:02:27-05:00

You are a Vet because you did serve. The discharge part though gets a bit complicated. It depends upon what conditions as to why you were separated/discharged. Check your DD214 Member 4 page and check the bottom of the page to see what discharge you were given. There are several: Honorable, Medical, Other than Honorable, General and Dishonorable.

Hopefully this helps.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Dec 2 at 2015 2:44 PM

2015-12-02T14:44:55-05:00

If you requested a Discharge the answer is No. If it was a Medical Discharge then Yes. We need more information than "I served 8 months".
Thanks You,
Rick

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2015 2:49 PM

2015-12-02T14:49:50-05:00

I served 6 years Air Force Reserves was Honorable discharged yet I don't feel like a Veteran.

Response by Sgt Spencer Sikder made Dec 2 at 2015 2:52 PM

2015-12-02T14:52:06-05:00

The question is a broad one for sure. If it's related to VA Health Benefits, the following is some basic criteria:

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. 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.

Enhanced Eligibility

Certain Veterans may be afforded enhanced eligibility status when applying and enrolling in the VA health care system. Veterans who:
•Are a Former Prisoner of War (POW)
•In receipt of the Purple Heart Medal.
•In receipt of the Medal of Honor.
•Have a compensable VA awarded service-connected disability of 10% or more.
•In receipt of a VA Pension.
•Were discharged from the military because of a disability (not preexisting), early out, or hardship.
•Served in a Theater of Operations for 5 years post discharge.
•Served in the Republic of Vietnam from January 9, 1962 to May 7, 1975.
U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships associated with military service in Vietnam
•Served in the Persian Gulf from August 2, 1990 to November 11, 1998.
•Were stationed or resided at Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987.
•Are found by VA to be Catastrophically Disabled.
•Previous years' household income is below VA's National Income or Geographical-Adjusted Thresholds.

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Dec 2 at 2015 6:28 PM

2015-12-02T18:28:28-05:00

Did you receive one? Yes.
Did you receive an other than honorable for being pain in the ass to the service? No.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2015 8:59 PM

2015-12-02T20:59:00-05:00

Technically service over 180 days makes you a veteran. However if you were kicked out, didn't serve your full term or were a pain in the butt to your First Sgt or Commander... then not so much. If I was a turd in the ranks I wouldn't be too proud of that. If it was due to mitigating circumstances out of your control then that is nothing to be ashamed of. Anyways you should just chalk it up as a learning experience.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2015 10:39 PM

2015-12-02T22:39:00-05:00

Absolutely. A good friend of mine was only able to serve eight months in the Navy. He asked the same question you just did. He served honorably and so did you and deserve to be treated as such.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2015 12:41 AM

2015-12-03T00:41:05-05:00

Absolutely, just don't tell stories about basic and the army. Definately differed rate the difference between a combat veteran and a veteran, when someone addresses it.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2015 3:14 AM

2015-12-03T03:14:06-05:00

By reg, yes.

Response by SSgt David Tedrow made Dec 3 at 2015 4:20 AM

2015-12-03T04:20:41-05:00

YES

Response by CPO David Sharp made Dec 3 at 2015 5:56 AM

2015-12-03T05:56:23-05:00

180 days of continuous Service counts as a Veteran.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2015 7:05 AM

2015-12-03T07:05:30-05:00

Depends. If you were injured at basic training and cannot continue in uniform than yes. But if you were discharged for behavior or not following the UCMJ than no.

Response by CMSgt Wilson Edgell made Dec 3 at 2015 9:14 AM

2015-12-03T09:14:48-05:00

Yes, you are a veteran. Robert, are you asking from a benefits perspective? If so, check with your local VA office; they can answer all of your questions from an eligibility perspective because there are guidelines.

Now, you will find the term "veteran" varies by state...some stipulate a minimum amount of service for eligibility for benefits but in general terms, yes you are a veteran. You can and should be recognized as a veteran due to your military service and you should identify as a veteran when asked, whether verbally or when applying for employment, etc.

Thank you for your service. Nobody can take that away from you. Chief

Response by Col Robert Ginn made Dec 3 at 2015 10:04 AM

2015-12-03T10:04:36-05:00

Of course. Next question.

Response by SSgt Mike Hogan made Dec 3 at 2015 11:02 AM

2015-12-03T11:02:59-05:00

Yep, you are a vet. Thanks for your service.

Response by PVT Earl Bautista made Dec 3 at 2015 11:28 AM

2015-12-03T11:28:48-05:00

you know I don't know the whole story as to why your asking the question. But if your like me and recently applied for some type of VA Benefits and got denied and found out your not eligible. Its a safe generated idea as to why your asking the question. For years I felt down about my early release, leaving my brothers behind. They were my family. After 18 years, I finally decided to see what benefits I was eligible for. Don't get me wrong, I do own a home here on the Reservation of the Tribe I'm enrolled in. But the education as you get into High School is not the greatest. I sent my oldest to school in the city. I then started looking at the housing market in the city so that way we can be with my kid. I did talk with a realtor and things started to look promising. They had asked the question," were you in the military?" I stated yes. It was then when we applied for a VA Loan. I was denied, due to my length of service. I was given the option to write a letter of Disagreement to the VA.(reference attached copy of the letter I wrote) I was quickly notified by a VA representative and asked to rescind my letter of Disagreement. We then took a long look at my DD214, Turns out when I was Discharged there were error codes that didn't match the reason I was Discharged. They wanted me to fill out other documentation DD FORM 149.
So I was left with the same impression you where left with....AM I VETERAN? By the documentation of the US, Yes I am, but with limited to no benefits.

Response by SGT Rob Moses made Dec 3 at 2015 1:32 PM

2015-12-03T13:32:40-05:00

In some allied countries, Vet means having deployed on active service or UN Peacekeeping Operations.
Someone who enlisted and never deployed is an ex-serviceman/woman.
If you only finished rookies, then no, you are not a veteran.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Dec 3 at 2015 3:49 PM

2015-12-03T15:49:24-05:00

Unless you manipulated the system to get discharged then for whatever valid reason you served and were discharged honorably at 8 months. Just don't sit around telling tall tales about what you never did. If someone asks you if you served you can honestly say yes and leave it at that.

Response by Cpl Mark McMiller made Dec 3 at 2015 7:48 PM

2015-12-03T19:48:30-05:00

Yes. If you served, you are a vet. I can't believe the number of ignorant service members who don't understand what constitutes a veteran. Some say you have to have deployed; some say you have to have served in combat; they are wrong. Sounds like some of the same attitude as the SFC on another thread who thinks that only those in combat arms are warriors and should be treated better than other service members. For the life of me, I don't understand where they are getting these misguided ideas because I never heard anything like this from anyone when I served; maybe some service members nowadays are just plain stupid. Bottom line, if you served, you are a veteran.

Response by TSgt Mario Guajardo made Dec 3 at 2015 10:49 PM

2015-12-03T22:49:27-05:00

If that's what your DD-214 says then you are.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Dec 4 at 2015 12:25 AM

2015-12-04T00:25:34-05:00

Were you awarded an MOS? Did you serve in that or any MOS? Training to be a Soldier don't make you one!

Response by Lt Col Doc Rodgers made Dec 4 at 2015 1:00 PM

2015-12-04T13:00:08-05:00

No. 18 months minimum is need to qualify as a veteran.

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Dec 4 at 2015 2:24 PM

2015-12-04T14:24:07-05:00

As long as you completed basic training and have an honorable you are a veteran. Now saying that you may not get all the same benefits like the GI Bill or Vocrehab. You still have access to scholarships, American Legion, and more. Also due to the change in the laws Make sure you go to your nearest VA Medical Center and register with them and get your VA ID Card. This can be done by bringing in your picture ID and your DD-214 member copy 4.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 10 at 2015 5:20 PM

2015-12-10T17:20:52-05:00

Is someone telling you that you are not a veteran?

Response by Cpl Robert Clark made Dec 17 at 2015 1:52 PM

2015-12-17T13:52:42-05:00

Doesn't anyone read this?
38 U.S.C. 4215(a) Veteran-Service in the active military, naval or air service and discharge under conditions other than dishonorable. The term "active" means - full-time duty in the Armed Forces, including National Guard or Reserve components, for other than active duty for training.

In a nutshell: 180 days on active duty (outside of Basic Training and initial MOS school)

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2015 1:56 PM

2015-12-17T13:56:02-05:00

Your 8 months served is 8 months more than most Americans do. For that matter, it's more than a large percentage of IET Soldiers do. If you did not get out for disciplinary reasons then I would personally consider you a veteran.

Response by Cpl Gerard Babin made Dec 24 at 2015 12:45 PM

2015-12-24T12:45:22-05:00

Regardless of your discharge your a vet, pup. For what ever reason including legal issues- you did your boot time & then did some - like others posted, you served.

Response by Cpl Gerard Babin made Dec 24 at 2015 12:46 PM

2015-12-24T12:46:43-05:00

You served pup. regardless of the length. We are at war anyone with the balls to volunteer to do what we do has earned that much.

Response by LTC Richard Cassem made Dec 28 at 2015 10:08 PM

2015-12-28T22:08:07-05:00

As long as you served in combat, you are a veteran--regardless of your discharge classification.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Feb 5 at 2016 2:32 AM

2016-02-05T02:32:43-05:00

I've answered this question once before and I've thought it about it a little since more since. As far as I know there is no draft and so you must have enlisted od your own accord. Being discharged honorably, even as you say through the manipulations of parents doesn't make you any less a veteran than anyone else who has served long enough to be considered so. During the time you were in I assume you followed orders and had you been deployed I'd like to think you would have gone where you were ordered to go. You were discharged honorably and you're a veteran. Shake it off, look people in the eye and be proud of the decision you made and if you have to be embarrassed for one be embarrassed for those who went behind your back and made decisions for you. You're asking to much of yourself and not enough of them.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2016 2:45 AM

2016-02-05T02:45:38-05:00

Yes I believe you are a veteran. If you were discharged for medical reasons then you are probably entitled to VA benefits. If not, then you might not be. I am a reservist and have only served a little over a year of active duty (1 deployment and basic course) I was told by the VA I get 5 years of benefits, unless I serve another year on active duty. Then I get lifetime benefits.

Response by SPC Roger Giffen made Sep 17 at 2016 12:50 PM

2016-09-17T12:50:17-04:00

Why were you discharged after only 8 months??

Response by COL William Oseles made Sep 17 at 2016 2:56 PM

2016-09-17T14:56:34-04:00

Did they give you an Honorable Discharge?
If so, yes.
Otherwise much depends on why you were discharged and what dis charge the did give you.

Response by SSG Jason Penn made Sep 17 at 2016 10:43 PM

2016-09-17T22:43:33-04:00

It depends on why you got out.... Look at your DD-214. It will have you characterization of service. With only 8 months it is unlikely to be Honorable, and is more likely to be General, but as I said, it depends on the circumstances. There are 5 categories: Honorable, General (Under Honorable Conditions), Other Than Honorable, Bad Conduct, and Dishonorable.

Response by James Adair made Sep 18 at 2016 1:55 AM

2016-09-18T01:55:48-04:00

To receive an honorable discharge, a service member must have received a rating from good to excellent for his or her service. Service members who meet or exceed the required standards of duty performance and personal conduct, and who complete their tours of duty, normally receive honorable discharges. However, one need not complete a term of service to receive an honorable discharge, provided the reason for involuntary discharge is not due to misconduct. For instance, service members rendered physically or psychologically incapable of performing assigned duties normally have their service characterized as honorable, regardless of whether they incurred the condition or disability in the line of duty, provided they otherwise met or exceeded standards. Similarly, service members selected for involuntary discharge due to a Reduction in Force (RIF) typically receive an honorable discharge, assuming their conduct while on active duty met or exceeded standards.

United States Marines must have a proficiency and conduct rating of 3.0/4.0 or higher to receive an honorable discharge

Response by SrA Robert Smith made Sep 18 at 2016 6:53 AM

2016-09-18T06:53:22-04:00

Do you have your DD214? You might want to read it.

Response by PFC Sheila Harrison made Sep 18 at 2016 10:33 AM

2016-09-18T10:33:43-04:00

What were the conditions of discharge? Why did you not finish your original agreement of enlistment? Why cut it short? This seems to be missing a lot of information to come to a conclusion as to whether entitlement of benefits are deserved. Are you asking to be considered a veteran or are you wanting VA benefits? Just because you served does not mean you get VA benefits. VA benefits are determined upon discharge based on your service connected injuries. Don't think you just get free healthcare and money because you ended your military career. That's not how it works. It's not SNAP, or weathcare

Response by PFC Sheila Harrison made Sep 18 at 2016 10:37 AM

2016-09-18T10:37:24-04:00

Where is your papers stating honorable discharge?

Response by PFC Sheila Harrison made Sep 18 at 2016 10:37 AM

2016-09-18T10:37:53-04:00

Why did you not finish your term?

Response by MSgt Sandra McKinney Dent made Sep 18 at 2016 11:09 AM

2016-09-18T11:09:12-04:00

You you have in your possession either a DD Form 214/215, or NGB 22/22A?

If so, then Congrats! Legally the VA considers you to be a Veteran.

What was the condition of your discharge? Some are beyond the control of the service member, these are usually related to health or injuries. Other types of discharge are related to your personal conduct and suitability for military service.

Edited to add: There is even among those who have served longer, a bit of contention about the "quality" of their service. I recommend ignoring that "one-up" stuff.

I would recommend, the same as a few other people have said, I'd keep quiet about it "if it was less than honorable," and the result of a personal action.

Remember not to "brag" or tell "grandiose stories." It can be easy to do, but once someone knows the entire truth your personal INTEGRITY will be questioned about everything else in your life. Keep it simple and the truth. You made the attempt and something happened. Be honest, you get into less trouble that way.

Response by COL Jon Thompson made Sep 18 at 2016 6:04 PM

2016-09-18T18:04:44-04:00

Veteran status is not that easily defined. People think that enlisting or commissioning as an officer into any branch and component makes you a Veteran. That may get you free meals on Veterans Day but that is not the sole criteria for being eligible for VA benefits. A service member in the reserve components that only does their weekend drills and annual training is not eligible for all VA benefits. Yet, most people will consider them a Veteran. If you only completed part of your enlistment and were injured or otherwise disabled on duty, you are considered a Veteran by the VA. If you left service after 8 months for any other reason, I would not trumpet the fact that you enlisted, especially to other service members because I would question why you served only 8 months. I you are interested in seeing what benefits for which you may be eligible, contact your county or state VA rep to find out. You can read more here:

http://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R42324.pdf

R42324.pdf

Response by SSG Jessica Bautista made Oct 5 at 2016 10:35 AM

2016-10-05T10:35:23-04:00

Length of service doesn't determine that.

Response by SSgt Michael Cox made Jan 19 at 2017 11:50 AM

2017-01-19T11:50:01-05:00

My answer is yes. For the requirements of services it depends on the service you are looking for. For some as long as you finished basic your a vet for others like the VA you have to have finished your tech school to be considered a vet.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Jan 26 at 2017 2:41 PM

2017-01-26T14:41:49-05:00

I am and I wasn't in but a little over 6 months. I think the requirement is 184 days with an honorable discharge. I'm not exactly sure so you can check on the length of time if that concerns you.

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Sep 14 at 2021 11:21 PM

2021-09-14T23:21:58-04:00

If your DD-214 has a character of service of Honorable - you are an honorably discharged Veteran.

Response by SP5 Gary Perkins made Nov 21 at 2021 7:44 PM

2021-11-21T19:44:04-05:00

RallyPoint lists you above as a Verified Veteran! Are you asking for something else?

Response by PFC Marykay Hane made Apr 16 at 2022 9:18 AM

2022-04-16T09:18:48-04:00

Yes, and thank you for your service.

Response by CH (CPT)(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 7 at 2022 12:38 AM

2022-07-07T00:38:29-04:00

Probably more of a Veteran than me legally since in my 5+ years of Reserve service, the longest continuous time on Active Duty so far was only 120 days. Then again, it’s much more nuanced than that, as others have mentioned.

Response by SGT Glenn E Moody made Sep 10 at 2022 6:34 AM

2022-09-10T06:34:28-04:00

yes if you have A DD214 GENERAL or HONORABLE DISCHARGE or even A MEDICAL DISCHARGE then I would say yes

Response by SMSgt Anil Heendeniya made Sep 10 at 2022 11:12 AM

2022-09-10T11:12:39-04:00

The requirement is at least 180 days' active duty service. The only exception is if the member sustained a service-related injury and was discharged under honorable conditions.

That will be denied if discharged under other than honorable conditions, etc.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Sep 10 at 2022 5:33 PM

2022-09-10T17:33:17-04:00

Depends Upon WHY You Only Served 8 Months.
Perhaps You'd Not Even Want To Mention It.
Let Alone Admit To It.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2022 6:46 PM

2022-09-10T18:46:10-04:00

Yes you are. Thank you for your service.

Response by SPC Vonnie Jones made Mar 1 at 2023 9:34 AM

2023-03-01T09:34:10-05:00

Yu raised yur right hand didn't you.

Response by SSG Adrian Neils made Jul 5 at 2023 8:55 PM

2023-07-05T20:55:45-04:00

Not if you were not deployed for a role in a combat mission overseas.

Response by PO2 Mark Fraktman made Nov 9 at 2023 5:01 PM

2023-11-09T17:01:22-05:00

what does your DD-214 say?

Response by PO2 Mike Brinningstaull made Nov 13 at 2023 3:31 PM

2023-11-13T15:31:50-05:00

Unless it's for a combat or medical condition, I vote no.

Response by MAJ Mike Middleton made Nov 20 at 2023 9:40 PM

2023-11-20T21:40:59-05:00

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

what-is-a-veteran-the-legal-definition

Response by 1SG William Galeener made Mar 30 at 2024 1:00 AM

2024-03-30T01:00:08-04:00

If you have completed 180 days or more with an Honorable Discharge then yes you are a Veteran.