Is it right or wrong to feel awkward when people refer to you as "Veteran", when you don't have Veteran status?

It really depends on who it is referring to you as a Veteran. The civilian population doesn't really have a full understanding of our culture. That's why Veteran's Day and Memorial Day and Armed Forces Day so often get mixed up by the civilian population.

The best course of action is to educate them to the difference. You may feel awkward having to explain it, but our culture is so tight knit that those looking in on the outside genuinely have no idea what the differences are.

SGT,

I am an ole USN Chief. In my opinion, as long as you continue to serve honorably, as a veteran myself you are my brother in arms always and as the song goes - "I'm proud to be an American and I'll stand by YOU to still today to defend this land". No worries!

You will grow into the word - veteran, but think of yourself as a Warrior 1st. Take care of the men and women assigned to your care and don't pretend to give a DAMN! GIVE A DAMN! The old adage is "Take care of those who take care of you!"

When you do hang up your uniform you will become my brother - veteran! Until them get the job done! That is your mission!

Blessing always,

Chief Szejniuk

SGT Jacob Yuhas That depends. We all feel differently about this I am sure. I am a very humble person, and I did what I did for 33 years because it mattered. That said, it is nice when folks say thank your, but I never looked for that, expected that, or ask for it. I can still remember, vividly, walking thru airports in uniform after 911 coming home or going... and feeling embarrassed when folks clapped or cheered... especially when they were large groups. Why, because I feel I was just a Soldier, one of many, doing my job... I appreciated it, but it embarrassed me too...

As for the Veteran... I would say the second you swear in and get an ID card, you are veteran.

There is a gray area, however, for those who don't make it through initial entry training...

So, I would say (my opinion) when you successfully complete BCT, Boot Camp, etc... You can call yourself a Veteran.