I served for 8 years and I never deployed. I don't feel like I earn the credit of veteran. Does anyone else feel that way?

2016-08-18T23:51:20-04:00

Response by ENS Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2016 11:53 PM

2016-08-18T23:53:51-04:00

If you served your country honorably, especially for 8 years, you earned that title. Wear it with honor and pride, brother. We all scarified something, whether it was for a day or a career, deployed or stateside. "All gave some, some gave all" remember that. We all signed on the dotted line that said we would be willing to give everything up to and including our lives.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 19 at 2016 12:39 AM

2016-08-19T00:39:34-04:00

Dude, no one that ever DID deploy did it without the help of people who didn't. We ALL signed the same blank check for Uncle Sam. Just because he didn't cash yours doesn't make it less valuable. Go watch the youtube video of the Army cook who, in the middle of cooking dinner, came under fire, ran and returned fire, then went back and flipped his steaks. You are a veteran, Brother.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Aug 19 at 2016 1:24 AM

2016-08-19T01:24:45-04:00

My former platoon sergeant retired as 1SG with 20 years and only deployed for 6 months to Kosovo. To this day he is one of the most impressive NCOs and individuals I've met in my life. In the military so much is about timing. Right place, right time. Or, wrong place, wrong time, with wrong leadership. There is so much we cannot control. Go with the flow of the river. Turn left and right if you see an opportunity.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 1:26 AM

2016-08-19T01:26:08-04:00

How you feel is irrelevant. If you feel so strongly, write your congressman and ask him for your vet status to be revoked. C'mon man, no one is GI Joe, you go and do your job, you come home. There are very few heroes. This is like my girlfriend fishing for an "I'm pretty" compliment. You're a vet or you're not a vet under title 38, it's a legal status. You're not pretty.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 1:29 AM

2016-08-19T01:29:02-04:00

I'm not sure if I will deploy, by that I mean to a designated combat zone. I'm NG and my unit seems to be doing state partnership type AT. So I might not do a deployment during this enlistment. Who knows though. I just try to work hard and help out the guys in my unit as best I can and learn what I can. Even if I don't go to Afghanistan or wherever the next fight is at least I'll know I conducted myself professionally.

I guess what I'm saying is even if we don't go, we still have a job to do and so long as we do it well there's nothing to be ashamed about.

Response by Capt Chris McVeigh made Aug 19 at 2016 2:34 AM

2016-08-19T02:34:40-04:00

There is a difference between not deploying and actively avoiding deployments. I tried to, but never made it over to Iraq/Afghanistan due to operational demands. On the flip side, if deployments came up but you intentionally skated around them, yeah I'd probably think less of you.

As long as you served and did what was asked of you for those 8 years, then it doesn't matter what part of the world you did your job.

Response by SPC(P) Alexandra Hinds made Aug 19 at 2016 6:31 AM

2016-08-19T06:31:25-04:00

Yes, I do. I have been in the Army for almost 5 years come October and I feel that my time was less spent than those who had deployed. I actually talk to my Husband about this constantly and how I should respond when someone thanks me for my service considering, I do not feel that I have served any cause.
Yes, we all signed the same contract and enlist under the same oath however, those who have deployed have earned and fought for the right to be admired and thanked.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 7:57 AM

2016-08-19T07:57:16-04:00

One does not control one's assignments in the military.

If you served honorably, did the job(s) you were assigned, and did not do things to avoid deployment, you are a vet and, even though you may feel you should have been deployed, you have no reason to feel less because that didn't happen.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Aug 19 at 2016 8:03 AM

2016-08-19T08:03:06-04:00

If you served Honorably then you ARE a veteran and don't let anyone tell you other wise. It took me 14 years to get my first deployment. I was in all the right units and jobs, just at the wrong time.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 8:17 AM

2016-08-19T08:17:16-04:00

The flip side of this was a PFC who was deployed for OEF 1, earned his CIB and wanted out for his knee pain. Said he had no further goal or purpose. What he didn't see is using his experience and leadership to mentor and influence the machine. Don't overlook your contribution.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Aug 19 at 2016 8:27 AM

2016-08-19T08:27:25-04:00

You ARE a veteran period! Being deployed or not has nothing to do with your veteran status. Look, I spent the majority of my career in the Strategic Air Command and a good portion of SAC people never deployed in their entire 20 year career. I did deploy due to my B-52 flight crew status but that didn't make me think any less of those who didn't; actually considered them lucky at times. Have seen a lot of questions of a similar vein on RP lately and don't understand. Can't people on active duty these days grasp the concept that it takes a team to conduct military operations and not everyone is going to be put on the field?

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 9:21 AM

2016-08-19T09:21:11-04:00

I am sure there are many that have had this feeling. Lets face it, unless your kicking in doors, doing patrols or involved in RCP's you are most likely in a support role. There are those that have deployed and came back over weight from all the green bean lattes and donuts. It may be something you may have wished to do but I can tell you in the CSS arena you will see a lot of shame in a deployment.

Response by SFC(P) Tobias M. made Aug 19 at 2016 9:31 AM

2016-08-19T09:31:22-04:00

No. I have been deployed three time and will tell you that just because you didn't deploy you served your country. You did your 8 years. You have done more then a lot of people out there. Do no fell like you had to deploy to be a veteran. You are a veteran not a combat veteran there is a difference. You have earned your title. Wear it with pride.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 9:44 AM

2016-08-19T09:44:19-04:00

You willingly signed the line when others that could did not.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 9:53 AM

2016-08-19T09:53:02-04:00

You had the potential to deploy and even die for your country. Not only did you sign up, but you stayed in for 8 years.
Heck, CSM King was the TRADOC SGM and she never deployed in 30 years. (Ok, bad example, she was a turd....)

So I have re-evaluated my opinion of the SGM. She could have deployed just like the rest of us so she does deserve as much credit as those that did deploy. The Army saw fit to have her instead train our recruits and later to lead those that train our recruits. My only beef is the college degrees that were later considered not valid which can be part of the reason why she was promoted.

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Aug 19 at 2016 10:14 AM

2016-08-19T10:14:00-04:00

I have a friend who is a gunny. she has been in 19 years and just finished her first deployment last year. It wasn't like she avoided them, her MOS never deploys. and if they do, it is usually senior snco's only. So long as you didnt hide behind bushes when they needed people to deploy, you did your job as expected.
BTW, a veteran is someone who served in the armed forces.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Aug 19 at 2016 11:09 AM

2016-08-19T11:09:51-04:00

PFC Don Jenks I consider you a veteran if you are worried about others don't. As and all volunteer force we can not control our assignments. They most important thing is your thoughts and what you believe.

Response by SrA Chris "Shadow" McGee made Aug 19 at 2016 11:30 AM

2016-08-19T11:30:46-04:00

PFC Don Jenks You took the exact same oath as every one of us, whether you deployed or not. The fact that you were WILLING to deploy makes you a veteran. you were WILLING to give your life if necessary. You just were not put in the position of being in that situation. You still put on your uniform and laced your boots with the rest of us. Once you made that decision and signed on that line you became part of one of the greatest brotherhoods in existence, you became a United States Veteran.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Aug 19 at 2016 12:57 PM

2016-08-19T12:57:42-04:00

Don't feel bad, the military is a game of chance.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2016 10:17 PM

2016-08-19T22:17:25-04:00

Do not mistake deploying with being a veteran. There's was a huge gap for a while where no one deployed prior to 911. Also just because someone "deployed" doesn't mean they did anything to earn the title veteran. There are plenty of folks who deployed and didn't do anything but spend time at the gym and the DFAC. Everyone's career is different and serving makes you a veteran. You are part of the 1%

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2016 12:15 AM

2016-08-20T00:15:48-04:00

PFC Don Jenks You are a full fledged veteran. Your deployment status does not matter when it comes to being a veteran.

Response by Pat McCracken made Aug 21 at 2016 1:24 AM

2016-08-21T01:24:53-04:00

How interesting I find the responses. I've actually learned something by reading them. Years ago, I tried to join the VFW under my father's service and was denied because he was never deployed. I was told he wasn't a veteran. I've always wondered why. I've always felt he was because of the same reasons y'all have stated. Perhaps I will try again. Thanks.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2016 10:43 AM

2016-08-21T10:43:54-04:00

There was a day and age when that was the boundary line. You served in war, you were a veteran. You served at home, you were a former service member. Today, everyone is a veteran. Even this site does not differentiate between those who served in combat and those who did or have not.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Aug 21 at 2016 10:50 AM

2016-08-21T10:50:45-04:00

PFC Don Jenks Here, this is for you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRYg70HHkQs
You stood up and signed the line like so many of is did and so many, many, many more wouldn't do. Just because you didn't deploy doesn't mean you're not a vet. INDEED YOU ARE.

Army: We Were There

U.S. Army motivational video, circa 1980

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2016 12:18 PM

2016-08-25T12:18:47-04:00

We are all equal Veterans. It takes EVERYONE to move the machine. The stats I heard is it takes at least 7 or 8 MOSs to support the Infantryman on the ground, maybe more now due to tech advancements in the field. Bless your heart if you have never seen the rigors of combat. Some in combat zones never lifted a trigger finger, and maybe you worked hard to serve. We are all equally important. Have you helped a Veteran today?

Response by TSgt Robert Wade made Sep 10 at 2016 1:35 PM

2016-09-10T13:35:53-04:00

If you have a DD-214 that states that your was "Honorably Discharged" then you are a Veteran. The last time I checked to be called a veteran wasn't based on where you served or where you deployed to. Even the Coast Guard troops that protect our homeland borders are veterans and I doubt that they normally deploy due to their job being homeland related.

Response by SSgt Terry Snyder made Sep 10 at 2016 2:18 PM

2016-09-10T14:18:04-04:00

IT DOES NOT MATTER...YOU STILL SIGNED THE BLANK CHECK UN LIKE SO MANY OTHERS...YOU ARE A VET...DON'T FORGET IT AND DON'T REGRET IT...

Response by SPC Roger Giffen made Sep 10 at 2016 8:06 PM

2016-09-10T20:06:53-04:00

I spent 5 yrs and 9 mos in the US Army. I was stateside for 4 years and in West Germany for 1 year 9 mos. I was never deployed to a combat zone because at the time there were no combat zones. I was there and ready if needed. I consider myself an Army veteran.

Response by SP5 Joel McDargh made Sep 10 at 2016 9:54 PM

2016-09-10T21:54:19-04:00

You put the uniform on, trained for combat action, and damn well did not run for the border to avoid serving. You are as much a veteran as any who actually saw combat. I salute you.

Response by SSgt Bob Williams made Sep 11 at 2016 10:35 AM

2016-09-11T10:35:51-04:00

So basically what you are saying is that 95% of the "vets" that served this country between 1974 and 1990 are not vets? there were no wars, therefore there were very few deployments, therefore there were very few vets with the exception of Grenada and Panama. Sorry but anyone who raised the right hand and swore an oath to defend this great nation from its enemies, and then served in that capacity has the right to call themselves a veteran, whether you like it or not. Sorry to burst your bubble.

Response by CPL Paul Beebe made Sep 12 at 2016 10:41 AM

2016-09-12T10:41:11-04:00

You signed your name on the line. You swore to defend our country and the Constitution. You went to Basic. You learned how to be a Soldier. You learned your MOS. You served at your Base - YOU ARE A VETERAN.

Response by PFC Michael Walters made Apr 9 at 2018 1:38 AM

2018-04-09T01:38:07-04:00

I feel the same way 2.5 years in and discharged but honorable.
I don't feel like a vet, I feel like a flunky

Response by SSG Jess Peters made Sep 24 at 2019 2:46 PM

2019-09-24T14:46:46-04:00

You should not feel that way. The day you enlisted you signed a contract up to and including your life. We all serve the needs of the service.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2019 11:12 PM

2019-09-24T23:12:11-04:00

You're a veteran despite what you think about not being deployed.

Response by Sgt Dan Catlin made Sep 25 at 2019 10:40 AM

2019-09-25T10:40:31-04:00

No. You signed the dotted line, raised your right hand and took the same oath I did. And just like me you went where they told you and did your job. You earned the title "Veteran." You should wear it proudly.

Response by PO2 Mark Capra made Sep 26 at 2019 5:04 PM

2019-09-26T17:04:35-04:00

You gave up 8 years of your life in defense of this Country ..yes you are a Veteran ...that is why I’m glad to see more of the use of the words Combat Veteran because they deserve more thanks than the rest of us who served (USN 68-72) but all deserve some thanks !

Response by SGT Roy Chavis made Sep 26 at 2019 6:01 PM

2019-09-26T18:01:33-04:00

Wrong, if you served or got injured while on duty you are a none combat veteran.

Response by SGT Roy Chavis made Sep 26 at 2019 6:11 PM

2019-09-26T18:11:53-04:00

What

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Sep 26 at 2019 7:50 PM

2019-09-26T19:50:41-04:00

I have felt the same when I came out the Army in 1991. Another veteran reassured me that as long as I made it through the training and I was assigned a post and completed a tour of duty and wasn't given a BCD, I am considered a veteran. Mind you, I served during a war but wasn't in combat. There is no comparison between veterans when it comes to service, whether you were sent to war or not. So take from me whom has been there in your shoes: As long as you served and wasn't given a BCD, you, just like the rest of us, have earn the right to be called a veteran. So don't ever be ashamed of your service to this country! You are one of us!

Response by SP6 Shawn Lopez made Sep 26 at 2019 9:56 PM

2019-09-26T21:56:17-04:00

Your a vet, just not a combat vet.

Response by CPO Arthur Weinberger made Oct 11 at 2019 12:09 PM

2019-10-11T12:09:37-04:00

Serving eight years and being an E-3 should not entitle you to being a veteran.

Response by PO3 Helen Hill made Oct 13 at 2019 10:11 AM

2019-10-13T10:11:20-04:00

i served 10 years during the Cold War ..never deployed but did serve overseas 5 years...

Response by MAJ Fred Peterman made Oct 14 at 2019 6:08 AM

2019-10-14T06:08:30-04:00

My opinion. Only MINE. were you deployable? If you were deployable, that counts. Not everyone deploys.

Response by MAJ Fred Peterman made Oct 14 at 2019 6:17 AM

2019-10-14T06:17:18-04:00

I was required by the Battalion Comander to "interview" all of the soldiers in my Company that requested to not deploy. I found that ONE would have a severe hardship. Recommended that she did nort deploy "temporarily ". She remained stateside, remained in the Guard, finished school, and got commissioned in the Active US Army.

Response by MSgt Paul Pate made Oct 17 at 2019 11:54 PM

2019-10-17T23:54:50-04:00

Spent 20 years plus with one long tour. Did not deploy during the initial years of Desert Storm. Under your belief, I would not be a veteran. I helped train people that did deploy and trained those that backfilles the vacancies. There are many veterans that serves honorably during the cold war.

Response by Sgt Leonard Lamb made Oct 22 at 2019 3:51 PM

2019-10-22T15:51:07-04:00

Do you think our troops abroad are able to do what they do without support from back home? Be proud and thank for your service veteran. We are all one team Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines.

Response by SGT Scotty Faircloth made Dec 13 at 2019 5:35 PM

2019-12-13T17:35:12-05:00

Not shaming, just curious how you did 8 yrs and still a private?

Response by LTC Chris L. Streeter made Dec 25 at 2019 11:45 PM

2019-12-25T23:45:50-05:00

You served! You are a Veteran! Look on you DD-214

Response by LTC Lee Bouchard made Jan 3 at 2020 7:39 PM

2020-01-03T19:39:09-05:00

You are not alone. Others have been in your shoes over the years. I am reminded of a man I met years ago who wanted to serve anywhere. In the Pacific or European Theaters. The Army sent him to Panama where he sat out WW ll in a weather station. However, he understood you serve wherever the Army sends you.

Here are a couple of things to consider. Your MOS being one. If it is a critical MOS or if the Army is short people in your MOS the Army may send you where you are needed most. You can request a change in duty stations. See if you can trade stations with someone who has the same MOS. Assuming this policy is still in effect.

No matter what may happen you will always be a Veteran and a credit to the uniform you wear.
Because you were not deployed does not take anything away from who you are. I, and others, are proud of you wanting to deploy and maybe feeling like you need to make a larger contribution. You are contributing as a volunteer and that makes you a special person.

I can recall people running to Canada, dodging their responsibility as an America and hiding in schools to avoid serving. These people are not good enough to wear you boots or walk in your shadow. You deserve all credit due.

Response by SPC Robert Bobo made Jan 7 at 2020 12:05 PM

2020-01-07T12:05:57-05:00

I'm a Vietnam Era Veteran however, Never deployed to Vietnam and will not ever use the title of of Vietnam Veteran as I didn't earn it however, I honorably served this country in the US and Europe, I'm a Veteran

Response by PO3 Kenneth Hutchinson made Jan 31 at 2020 7:10 AM

2020-01-31T07:10:54-05:00

I was aboard an aircraft carrier for 3 yrs made 3 Med cruiser during the Vietnam Era still fill I am a veteran. You spend the time no doubt my friend you are a veteran. Thank you for your services

Response by CPO John Moran made Jan 31 at 2020 8:47 PM

2020-01-31T20:47:37-05:00

During my period of active duty it was during VIETNAM. I graduated from A school as a hospital corpsman and the class before us all went to VIETNAM. I was assigned to Balboa Naval Hospital for three years then sent overseas with the Marines, I caught Vietnam when it fell to the North Vietnam. I spent my 3 years in MEDICAL ICU and the Emergency Room at the Naval Hospital. I learned an awful lot at those,two departments which would help me throughout my 21,years of Active Duty

Response by SPC Alexander Bendyna III made Jan 31 at 2020 8:53 PM

2020-01-31T20:53:22-05:00

I think it is a more common feeling than you might think. On my first deployment, my troop was attacked an average of 220 times per week. I saw a lot of action. But most of it was IEDs exploding harmlessly against the armor of our vehicles. After 6 months in country, my unit allowed us to put on our combat patches. But I didn't put mine on for a long time after that still because I had never fired my weapon in combat and didn't feel like I deserved a combat patch or my CAB. So, while my experience with this feeling isn't exactly the same as yours, I do have an understanding of the mentality. But trust me, you deserve your veteran status, we all do our part.

Response by SSgt Paul Murray made Feb 3 at 2020 1:06 AM

2020-02-03T01:06:18-05:00

If you're in the service you really don't have any choice of assignments. Through the VA they recently awarded Vietnam Era veterans an eagle pin and certificate in each State to everyone that had served whether they were in country or not.

Response by CPL Sarah Stilwell made Feb 3 at 2020 1:30 AM

2020-02-03T01:30:37-05:00

I was a military kid that unfortunately turned 18 in the wrong year (2003). I used all the tried and true ways to delay getting sent over. I signed up for delayed entry, chose airborne school only to avoid being deployed out of AIT (occupational school) and hoped the war would somehow end and things would be ok. Unfortunately it dragged on and I was deployed at 19 to Baghdad in the fall of 2005 with a combat aviation down aircraft rescue team, the only combat arms unit that allowed women. After I was hit by a 120mm mortar blast I learned my younger brother was in bootcamp to become a combat medic. I was rated 100% permanent total which qualified my brother for what's known as 'sole survivor' (Classifiaction as WDF, those with siblings Kia, mia, pow or 100% disabled by combat) he was sent to Norfolk va to wait out the end of the war with the navy, unable to leave the states which brought my family great relief given that my parents didn't want to run the risk of having two kids in different hospitals. He was in Norfolk for 7 years before leaving the army. Combat is no video game and it's no right of passage. It's just a year of your life gone. Theres not much I gained from it other than chronic pain and years of therapy to deal with it.

Response by Cpl Travis Fryzowicz made Mar 21 at 2020 10:23 AM

2020-03-21T10:23:47-04:00

the military sends you and needs you where they sent you . YOU ARE A VETERAN ...

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Mar 22 at 2020 8:35 AM

2020-03-22T08:35:58-04:00

Not at all. Stop punishing yourself for never being shot at. You wore the uniform for 8 years and went and did what you were told so you are as much a vet as any of the rest of us.

Response by PO2 Ann Marie Duff made Apr 8 at 2020 10:12 PM

2020-04-08T22:12:38-04:00

I volunteered for deployment, completed training and that got really sick. Taken off the T.O. I was heartbroken and feel so much guilt. Some people I trained with didn't come home.... Some did. Some were hurt pretty bad... I feel like I let everyone down. I should have been there. Instead, I signed off on the physicals and sent people to die. I should have been there to take care of me Marines and sailors.

Response by CW4 Rodney Burnett made Apr 21 at 2020 4:56 PM

2020-04-21T16:56:16-04:00

I did 24 years active duty. I deployed a lot. My friend did 20 as a reservist and didn't deploy. He's still a vet in my book and so are you unless you were that person that went out of your way to avoid deployment.

Response by SFC Richard Williamson made Apr 29 at 2020 9:41 AM

2020-04-29T09:41:44-04:00

Think again, Young Man. PFC Don Jenks, as long as you served honorably, whether an honorable or general under honorable conditions discharge, and you completed at least 180 days consecutively, then SURPRIZE! You're a veteran. Here's an example: My nephew was in the Army for 3 or 4 years, went to jump school, etc, and ended up with a Bar to reenlistment, received a General under other than honorable discharge. In my opinion, with what he did to earn that bar, which I don't know what it was, but he also spent time in the stockade. Last I heard, he was in prison, and as a result of all this, He surrendered the right to be called a veteran. Not long after he was discharged, he asked if I could help him request an upgrade from General to Honorable Discharge. I refused because he wasn't worth my time. Bottom line; if you're a screw-up throughout your career, you pay the price.

Response by SSgt James Carter made Apr 30 at 2020 11:28 AM

2020-04-30T11:28:12-04:00

With an entirely new branch standing up (Space Force) this question is going to become moot. If a member of the armed forces was honorably discharged after serving at least their initial commitment, then they are a veteran.

Response by PFC Michael Willard made Apr 30 at 2020 7:45 PM

2020-04-30T19:45:36-04:00

I served 10yrs myself and never deployed. Even with that said, you stood ready to answer the call to deploy if necessary. As Maury would say, Don Jenk... YOU ARE A VETERAN

Response by CPT Wayne Price made Jul 29 at 2020 11:31 AM

2020-07-29T11:31:09-04:00

The military tells you where to go. You can volunteer but the choice is the military. WaynePrice

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2020 10:31 AM

2020-07-30T10:31:12-04:00

You did your time. If you were ready and willing to go but the Army never asked you...no worries man. Getting shot at is highly overrated anyway.

Response by SFC Pat Mattson made Aug 2 at 2020 9:44 PM

2020-08-02T21:44:43-04:00

Dude, I was in for 22 and only a hand full of weeks deployed in to combat zone. I usually had escorted sensitive items to and from and then in the Reserves backfilled regular units deployed. I did my job assigned to me by the Army and without question. I tried to to get to any deployment I could, but schools or Assignment like recruiting got in the way. BTW, a pretty good combat officer, who was my Grandfather in Law (Wehrmacht, WW2) told me don’t try to go into harms way, it will come to you if it was meant to be.

Response by MSgt Gilbert Jones made Aug 7 at 2020 1:40 PM

2020-08-07T13:40:48-04:00

I totally agree with SN Wright and anyone else here that said the same thing. The only time I never felt like I was a veteran was in Oct 1981, when then president Ronald Reagan sent a letter to the VA saying that retired military would no longer be treated as veterans because we drew a military retirement. My blood pressure was being checked at the moment that letter was being read to me. My blood pressure shot up to 180. Because we would no longer be treated as veterans we would only be eligible to be treated for those illness that we incurred while in the service. Now that was a hell of a thing to tell military retired people they weren't veterans. So be proud - you are a veteran and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made Aug 31 at 2020 1:17 PM

2020-08-31T13:17:29-04:00

I don't. During my tour of 1988-1991, I served as a gunner on a nuclear missile firing crew in Germany. I did not deploy for Panama and I missed Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Even so, my presence and my unit's was a deciding factor by Soviet forces not to invade what was then West Germany.

Response by SPC Nancy Clark made Aug 31 at 2020 11:39 PM

2020-08-31T23:39:41-04:00

I never deployed and if you say I'm not a veteran, you have a fight on your hands. Somebody had to fuel those LAC-V 30's we had over here at Ft. Story, VA. Somebody had to drive tanker trucks here in the states.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2020 12:10 PM

2020-09-01T12:10:12-04:00

You laid your life on the line for 8 years, while a lot of people around you didn’t. You had the guts to join. I spent most of my career in peacetime, never being deployed anywhere. You filled an important gap. Even today, not everyone gets a combat tour. Those that fill the gap are just as much a Veteran as anyone else that served. Raise your head and be proud of your service and as an after-thought, give the one finger salute to anyone who puts you down.

Response by SGM Gerald Fife made Sep 29 at 2020 7:27 PM

2020-09-29T19:27:22-04:00

You are a Veteran. Let it sink in. Just because you didn't deploy doesn't make any difference.

Response by SPC Ted Hunt made Oct 4 at 2020 12:05 AM

2020-10-04T00:05:13-04:00

It doesn't matter, you signed up with the best intentions. You're a Vet PERIOD!
I had 5 uncles who all served in WWII. Four of them all went overseas and were in a lot of action, Thankfully they all returned home safe. My other uncle spent the entire war at Governors Island in NY Harbor, 1st Army Headquarters, I think. He still is a WWII Veteran, although he never went overseas. His 4 brothers never thought any less of his service.

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Oct 6 at 2020 9:08 AM

2020-10-06T09:08:05-04:00

Did you follow the lawfully given orders you received? Did you wear your uniform with pride? If so then you are a veteran.

Response by SP5 Michael Barczykowski made Oct 31 at 2020 4:31 PM

2020-10-31T16:31:36-04:00

If you served your time and did what they asked of you, you ARE a veteran.

Response by CPT William Jones made Nov 5 at 2020 12:38 AM

2020-11-05T00:38:10-05:00

You say ever deployed in 8 years active duty. If you were assigned outside the United States you were deployed. Some people sometimes deploy to a hostile fire zone. But if you were assigned to NATO headquarters in Brussels you were deployed. But even staying in the states for 8 years makes you a veteran of the era you served

Response by SGT Lee Ensalada made Nov 8 at 2020 8:53 PM

2020-11-08T20:53:21-05:00

You are a Veteran. You served our great Nation. Stand proud, Brother.

Response by CW5 Mark Smith made Nov 9 at 2020 12:23 PM

2020-11-09T12:23:42-05:00

You served, you are a veteran. Don't let non-deployment tell you otherwise. Many who did deploy never heard a shot fired in anger and lived in comfortable quarters. Are they veterans? I consider you and those I mentioned veterans. And by the way, I was a Marine in Viet Nam and a Soldier in Iraq. Thanks for your service, fellow veteran!

Response by LCpl Richard Applegarth made Dec 20 at 2020 10:58 AM

2020-12-20T10:58:15-05:00

Absolutely not! You served your country for 8 years. You are a veteran in every sense of the word. Being deployed has no bearing on veteran status. If you served and you have a Honorable Discharge, then you are a veteran. Military service members have no control over whether or not they are deployed to an area of conflict. I served in the USMC during the Viet Nam War, but never was sent to Viet Nam. That doesn't make me any less a veteran.

Response by Col Tri Trinh made Jan 5 at 2021 2:16 AM

2021-01-05T02:16:34-05:00

No. Deployment is not a requirement for veteran status. What gave you this idea?
If you are no longer in active service, I hope you completed you separation health assessment and applied for any potential disability benefits.

Response by SSG Greg Miech made Jan 18 at 2021 3:27 PM

2021-01-18T15:27:26-05:00

Really not sure how after 8 years a PFC was not deployed unless he was non deployable. With soldiers doing multiple tours there it would raise eyebrows or praise from some. Many military personnel may feel they have not done their job unless they have gone to a combat zone or something else. Minus those in the silo bunkers launching nukes. In many ways just being in the military is a service as it is a deterrent against war just like the soldiers in the Cold War in Fulda to the DMZ.

Response by SGT Tiik Taaka made Jan 21 at 2021 8:28 AM

2021-01-21T08:28:51-05:00

Sorry for the 5-year delay. You served, you met the DA requirements, you are a Veteran. Just to be clear, even if you are talking about combat deployment, not being deployed has no bearing on your status.
During the Gulf War, some were called to the White House for duty. Although they were not in-country (deployed to combat), you better believe they were combat-ready.

Response by SPC Greg Cunningham made Jan 22 at 2021 8:00 PM

2021-01-22T20:00:00-05:00

In the United States of America
38 U.S.C. § 101(2) provides:
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 CPT Daniel Cox made Jan 24 at 2021 7:35 AM

2021-01-24T07:35:09-05:00

I served under contract in the Army for 14 years (Enlisted and Officer, Active and Reserve, West Point and ROTC) when there was no war. I enlisted expecting to go to Vietnam but came in during the last months of Vietnam and was given a medical discharge a little over a year before the start of Desert Storm. I consider myself a veteran, especially since the VA rates me at 100% disabled.
You are a Veteran and should be proud that you served your country honorably for eight years.

Response by MSG William Weatherell made Jan 27 at 2021 2:54 PM

2021-01-27T14:54:47-05:00

You served honorably an the simple fact your unit did ņot deploy makes no less a veteran.

Response by SFC Michael W. made Jan 27 at 2021 9:37 PM

2021-01-27T21:37:05-05:00

You don't have to deploy to feel like a veteran, unless you were a shammer...

And from the sound of it, you're NOT A SHAMMER.

HOOAH!

Response by SSG Ron Bogard made Mar 19 at 2021 12:02 PM

2021-03-19T12:02:32-04:00

If you did the job you were called to do, to the best of your ability, you qualify as a Veterinarian!! Stand tall and stay focused!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2021 9:29 AM

2021-03-21T09:29:00-04:00

You are a veteran because of your service.

Response by TSgt Robert Holmes made Mar 28 at 2021 11:32 PM

2021-03-28T23:32:10-04:00

A lot of Cold War Warriors never deployed; but they were ready to go if called. Thank you for you service my Brother Veteran.

Response by SFC Harry Jacobs made Apr 23 at 2021 8:03 PM

2021-04-23T20:03:51-04:00

No, you are a veteran, wear the title proudly.

Response by MAJ Michael McComber made Apr 25 at 2021 7:20 AM

2021-04-25T07:20:26-04:00

I think you are conflating "veteran" and "combat veteran". Just as many people choose their "service" level, you generally don't choose who's shooting at you and with what. I'm in a similar situation with "senior citizen". Only have one company left to hold me to a "higher" standard on that one, along with the SSA.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Apr 25 at 2021 8:12 AM

2021-04-25T08:12:34-04:00

I served a tour in Vietnam and didn't feel like a real veteran until I joined the VFW and began serving other veterans

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Apr 25 at 2021 8:18 AM

2021-04-25T08:18:29-04:00

You absolutely are a veteran. Be proud of your service!

Response by MSG Greg Kelly made Apr 25 at 2021 10:34 AM

2021-04-25T10:34:06-04:00

you are a veteran you served your country and you were not out there like the snow flakes burning the flag and peoples property. Thank you for your service.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2021 1:10 PM

2021-04-25T13:10:39-04:00

No.

Response by Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis made Apr 25 at 2021 1:37 PM

2021-04-25T13:37:07-04:00

I served for 28 years, and did not deploy once. My brother did two overseas tours, and I have two nephews who've served overseas. Each one has my deepest respect.

My service was in Acquisition and R&D. I had some of the most interesting assignment and never regretted a thing. There are careers that did not involve deployment (though I understand that's rarer and rarer these days). If you have served eight years, would you consider serving another twelve? I highly recommend the Reserves, to make a complete career out of it. The extra retirement money won't hurt, either (trust me).

Response by A1C Debby McCuistion made May 1 at 2021 1:58 PM

2021-05-01T13:58:27-04:00

Not for a minute. I always feel like a veteran. Veteran does not translate to warrior. Veteran is some one that served.
When I was a kid my grandfather told a military story and said. “Thank goodness there were people at the bases here. By them helping to win the war by protecting this soil it made it easier to go overseas. I knew my family and our homes were left in good hands.”
Everyone taking the military oath and gets out honorable, can hold there high hi as a veteran.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2021 7:58 PM

2021-05-26T19:58:10-04:00

10 years as a reservist. just started my first stint active duty. No deployments. I too don't really consider myself a vet and seek zero recognition as such.

Response by SFC James Watters made Jul 5 at 2021 8:44 PM

2021-07-05T20:44:12-04:00

I think you have to look at it in a different perspective. Some served 20 years and never deployed. If you're slotted then you're slotted - suck it up and drive on. If you're not, you're not - suck it up and drive on.

Units deploy as units, or they are tasked to provide detachments/attachments. You're not in a position to decide either way. Let the Stars and the Birds make decisions, just CM (continue mission) with your daily duties and responsibilities. You don't know how much veterans are thankful there are others filling boots to keep the US as safe as possible - keeping the EN at bay and out of the borders.

Thanks for your service.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 5 at 2021 10:45 PM

2021-07-05T22:45:42-04:00

We’re you ready to go? We’re you able to go?? If so, you are a Veteran. Remember that Big Green (U.S.) defeated Big Red (USSR) without a fight because all were ready to go.

Response by SPC Charles Sewell made Jul 8 at 2021 2:37 PM

2021-07-08T14:37:44-04:00

If you served for 8 years you are a veteran. You don't have to deploy to be a vet. You served your nation and we're ready to deploy if the call came down. You are one of the few. VETERAN.

Response by SPC Donald Charlson made Aug 11 at 2021 8:11 PM

2021-08-11T20:11:38-04:00

We all went where ordered. You are a veteran.

Response by PO3 Mike Keane made Aug 11 at 2021 8:27 PM

2021-08-11T20:27:58-04:00

You signed up, so whether you deployed or not, you were willing to do what most won’t.

Response by CPT William Jones made Aug 16 at 2021 6:14 PM

2021-08-16T18:14:48-04:00

Being a veteran has nothing to do with being deployed anywhere. Also many troops think eing deployed meanet einf sent to a hostile fire zone. Deployed mean sent outside of CONUS anywhere. A combat deployment is being sent to a declared hostile fire zone. So yes you are a Veteran,just not a combat veteran and they could not complete their mission if there werent people like you completing yours. Thank You for your service from a Combat Engineer that deployed 32 months in combat zone and another 12 deployed in Germany and a couple in the states.

Response by PO2 R Greg Schmidt made Aug 16 at 2021 8:31 PM

2021-08-16T20:31:42-04:00

Some of today's drone pilots never get out of their little cubicle but I'll bet more than a few have PTSD. Yes, no matter what the job or location, it's a big machine and it takes all the parts working together for it to work. Proud to call you my brother.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2021 6:56 PM

2021-09-12T18:56:28-04:00

8 years and a PFC?

Response by Sgt David Johns made Sep 15 at 2021 9:03 PM

2021-09-15T21:03:57-04:00

nope. Everyone who took the oath and stayed in until they couldn't anymore or got discharged honorably/generally/medically are Vets. I was stationed in the US for 4 years, as a Minuteman III ICBM mechanic. Never got deployed overseas, never saw combat But we were prepared to turn the keys to send those nukes where they needed to go.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2021 4:58 PM

2021-09-16T16:58:09-04:00

A vet is someone who has been in the military. Deployments don’t do much other than maybe allow you to call yourself a “combat veteran”