Is it appropriate for a non-combat veteran to use the Vet Center and/or VA?

Absolutely! I served. I was injured (twice). Those injuries have had quite a large impact on my life ever since -- I am 90%, but 100% with IU P&T.

The VA is for all veterans

Yes, since they are liable for service anywhere and have sworn to protect our nation.

Yes!

Get in touch with the benefits office at you local VA or the closest one that has such an office. I got some small disability at the VA in Temple Texas. They will review your records of course and have to make inquiries. Speak to other vets particularly those of the Vietnam era and you will find that they can point you in the right direction. Is what a friend did for me. Hope this helps.

I can't believe you posted this question!!

I served 915 days in Vietnam, so I would like to comment on this. First of all a veteran is a veteran, and that's it. Being a veteran doesn't mean you had to roll around in the mud with an enemy soldier, stabbing at each other with knives. You did your job, as best you could, in a difficult situation. It's a chicken shit question for anyone to post, and you should be ashamed of yourself for doing it

I'm a combat vet and all the VA did for me is screw up two surgeries and I spent 3 mo in civilian hospital and 6 more months in hospital bed with nurse and aid. I wouldn't use or recommend VA for any surgeries of any kind. I wont even let them draw blood to see primary care doc as I got two different infections and merica virus there too. As far as I'm concerened I'll use my medicare instead and go to civilian doctor. Also the so called Choice Program sucks. Waited adiitional 3 months to see civilian surgeon.

Yes, we are all veterans, we served.

God bless all our servicemen and servicewomen. May you all find the help you need. I was a 92A in the US Army 90-97.