Should veteran status be reserved for those who have deployed?

2014-05-06T19:15:28-04:00

This one has come up a lot in conversations with my peers and Soldiers: Should you be allowed to claim veterans status if you have never deployed?

Personally, I'm an ROTC graduate who chose to go straight into the ARNG in 2011, knowing full well that my chances to deploy would be next to none with the changing op tempo. Realistically, had I been actively searching out a deployment the whole time, I still may not have gotten one. I'm sure there are Soldiers out there who served honorably in a reserve component without deploying, despite their best efforts. So, for example, should a Soldier who completed basic training, had a clean service record, excelled in their peer group, but ultimately served 10 years as a reservist with no deployment and less than 180 days on non-ADT active service be prevented from calling themselves a veteran?

I have my own thoughts, but I'm more interesting in hearing your opinions. For clarification, I'm speaking more towards the legal definition of veterans status - even if the laws were changed here, there would still be an immense difference between a legal veteran and a legal veteran with several deployments, combat experience, decades on active duty, or a combination of all three.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 7:29 PM

2014-05-06T19:29:37-04:00

A Veteran is a Veteran...whether they deployed or not! I'm sure you seen this quote before but it is very fitting..." A veteran is someone who wrote a check to the United States of America for up to and including their life." Not sure I got it right 100% but just because someone didn't deploy doesn't make their service not valuable enough of earning that tittle. War Veteran to me is someone that has deployed, it doesn't make them better but they've earned the right to say I went over seas in freedoms defense. Just my 2 cents.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made May 6 at 2014 7:41 PM

2014-05-06T19:41:42-04:00

First of all, let me state that there are several 'legal' definitions of Veteran. Even the VA has different definitions of veteran based on the benefit sought and NONE of them require a deployment (some do require wartime service but do not require that you actually deploy)... That aside, in my own opinion, anyone who has served honorably in any component of the Armed Forces is a Veteran. Does that entitle them to ALL Veteran benefits? No. Should it? No. I myself am retired with over 20 years of Active Duty in the Army and have deployed. Do I have full VA benefits, No.
Bottom line. If you served honorably, I believe you are a Veteran, but just being a Veteran does not, in itself, qualify one for all benefits, and being deployed has absolutely NOTHING to do with it.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 6 at 2014 7:47 PM

2014-05-06T19:47:02-04:00

I spent 12 years serving my country, and now some one says that because I didn't deploy overseas to a "combat" zone that I am not a veteran. Just exactly where does this crap come from? I am proud of my service and despite what anyone says I am and will remain a veteran. Of all the things that can be taken from me, however, my veterans status isn't one of them.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 6 at 2014 7:52 PM

2014-05-06T19:52:19-04:00

You signed the Dotted Line, You were eligible to go anywhere, anytime. You trained to serve your country in an emergency, You are a Veteran. Just because there was no call for you to deploy is not your fault. Now if you served during wartime you are eligible for the American Legion, If you deployed to Theater during wartime you can join the VFW. I belong to both.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 7:58 PM

2014-05-06T19:58:04-04:00

IMHO anyone who serves their country honorably should be able to call themselves a Veteran. If you want to break it down in my view there are three types;

Veteran: anyone who served 4 years or 20 years, reserve or active makes no difference.

War time Veteran: anyone who served during a time of war, without acually deploying. Vietnam, GWOT.

Combat Vet: anyone that deployed into a combat zone.

As for Combat Soldiers vs "Fobbits" well that is a different topic. Not going to touch that one right now.

Response by 1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 9:00 PM

2014-05-06T21:00:25-04:00

I agree with all of you so far - broadly speaking, a veteran is a veteran, regardless of whether they deploy or not. Unfortunately the government does not see it that way.

According to Title 38 § 101 of the U.S. Code, "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." If you read into the other definitions, this excludes Guard or Reserve members who have not met a minimum amount of time on Title 10 or Title 32 orders (active duty for training doesn't count). I know there are veterans advocacy groups trying to get this changed but it hasn't so far.

Not only this, but similar requirements apply to the GWOT Service Medal - if a reservist has less than 30 consecutive days of not ADT activation or 60 non-consecutive days of non-ADT activation, they are not eligible to be awarded it.

So, until the laws are changed, some of us will be considered veterans by everybody but the government.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2014 9:47 PM

2014-05-06T21:47:11-04:00

Negative! How about you just say combat veteran, thats probably the only distinguishing that could matter. Ones who saw war and ones that saw peace.

Response by 1SG Mike Case made May 7 at 2014 2:19 PM

2014-05-07T14:19:48-04:00

I have Soldiers who joined for four years and spent the entire time in some SCIF or other type building supporting forces downrange 24/7. They came in even when the ice storms and stuff shut down post, they were in, doing their job. The schedules sometimes were 1600 to 2359 or 0001 to 0800. They spent years working these shifts and they weren't eligible for a deployment award even though their lives rotated around the Soldiers downrange. They are just as much a veteran as anyone else, so no a deployment is not a requirement, at least not in my book. My opinion and 50 cents won't even by you a Coke though.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made May 7 at 2014 3:58 PM

2014-05-07T15:58:56-04:00

Anyone, who at any time, stood up and signed the line giving the United States Government a check worth his/her own life is qualified to carry the label Veteran. Number of deployments doesn't matter.

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made May 7 at 2014 4:09 PM

2014-05-07T16:09:43-04:00

IMHO a Veteran is a Veteran no matter when or where they served. There is no small print on the contracts that say you are a Veteran only if you served in combat. Serving in combat makes you a Combat Veteran and not serving in combat still makes you a Veteran.

Response by PO1 Terry Shank made May 8 at 2014 6:52 PM

2014-05-08T18:52:54-04:00

Yes they should be considered Veterans because if there were a flare up all could be deployed or working in a support function that still serves the needs of those being deployed. Now there are some even Veterans that I find really did not like the fact that are Vets! Simply because they disrespected their own service and likely had a hard time with deployment or while deployed! Give them the option if they feel they earned being a Vet!!

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made May 8 at 2014 6:56 PM

2014-05-08T18:56:20-04:00

One's honorable service be it for 3-years or 30 is what makes one a Veteran, not deploying. Many, many honorable individuals served without deploying from the time of the end of the Vietnam War through today, and they are Veterans, to say otherwise denigrates their service to our nation.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2014 7:18 PM

2014-05-08T19:18:06-04:00

All who served are vets. Just don't ask them to operate on your dog.

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made May 9 at 2014 5:00 PM

2014-05-09T17:00:58-04:00

I had mentioned that I felt like I was not "doing my part" as I have not deployed, nor do I have a combat patch. I have felt this way for the time I have served and had been actively pursuing a deployment.

Upon hearing this, one of our SFC's said to me: "Sir, you have done everything anyone has asked you to do since you signed up and not turned away from any tasking or request coming from above, that means you are "doing your part" and thats all anyone can ask."

I may have paraphrased a bit, but the jist of it makes me feel good.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2014 5:14 PM

2014-05-09T17:14:34-04:00

I struggle to see the benefit of limiting the criteria of the term "veteran" further than it is.

Response by Lt Col Robert Van Hee made May 11 at 2014 10:32 AM

2014-05-11T10:32:39-04:00

Of course not. From the late 70s (end of Vietnam) to 1990 (Desert Shield), a lot of veterans passed through the gates who never deployed anywhere because there was no need for deployments. Are we supposed to tell all those vets, who had the bad luck to be around when there was no deployment requirement, that their service was not really military service?

What a hairbrained idea. However, I do see that there might be a difference in the types of medical benefits awarded, depending on the conditions of ones service.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2014 9:27 AM

2014-05-13T09:27:05-04:00

No; all that serve and meet the current definition should be called Vetrians. They have earned that. If the discussion shifts a bit to say; should Combat Vets be given extra perks over those given to all Vetrians, I would reply yes. They have given a bit more and acknowledging that outside / after leaving the military is token of appreciation,

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2014 9:00 PM

2014-06-05T21:00:25-04:00

I have heard that is why some are called combat veteran vs. veteran. In some things you need to be in for at least 6 years in order to be of veteran status. Yet some have deployed four times and not hit 6 years. It really depends who you are talking to and for what. I personally go with the combat veteran vs. veteran to say yes I was in theater or not. Then that leads to the side conversation: combat veteran just for those who were shot at or fired shots or anyone who was deployed in combat theater.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Jun 5 at 2014 9:33 PM

2014-06-05T21:33:11-04:00

If you've walked the walk in a uniform, stood a post and served your state and/or country, you can drink from my canteen anytime!

What you are eligible for as a veteran is based on various factors as stated in previous posts and is determined by a higher authority than I.

Response by MSG John Wirts made Aug 31 at 2014 10:55 PM

2014-08-31T22:55:23-04:00

I have explained this in several other posts. There are several categories of veteran. I joined the Active Army on June 18 1962, I was released from Active Duty on June 08 1965. At the time of my separation I was not a vet. I joined the California Air Guard in March of 1966, it was not until I had been in the Guard for about 1 year that the official start date for the Vietnam War was announced, I was in the active service at that time so I was awarded the NDSM and was entitled to veteran status in my civil service job. This was a huge change in terms of job security and schooling. I stayed in for a total of 42 years 6mo and 25 days, then I retired. Veteran status is easily obtained these days, just join up and complete your enlistment honorably, and you are a veteran. You are more likely to deploy to a combat zone now, but even if you don't you are still a veteran. When I first joined NDSM's and veteran status was only available to active duty or deployed reservists. I went from 1966-1990 with just my NDSM only, in 1990 the NDSM was issued to active duty, reserve and guard military, I got my first device on my NDSM. That veteran status is earned! A great many of those who served in Vietnam, were drafted, a lot of them if offered a choice would not have gone voluntarily, Many people in the guard and reserves were fighting to get in to avoid the draft, those of us who were prior service volunteered to stay in reserve or Guard troop units, where call up was rare but not unheard of, when I was going through training I came within one day of being sent to the Florida beaches in the middle of the Cuban missile crisis. So the chance of callup or deployment was always there. It did not happen because our military with guard and reserves was a potent enough force to dispel the Soviet's will to attack. So now or at least before I went into the Retired Reserve, being on active duty or participating in a troop program unit entitles that military member the title of veteran and the entitlements of that title.

Response by SGT(P) Jason D. Wendel made Oct 1 at 2014 1:28 AM

2014-10-01T01:28:31-04:00

A military veteran is Any person who served for Any length of time in Any military service branch. (Which is really unfortunate.... because even under honorable discharges could legally call themselves veterans)

However, combat veteran as defined is anyone in a military component 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.

We could go as far as to debate what we believe should be considered veteran status: Such as Time in Service, Rank, Units served in, and Deployments completed. Simple fact is, even a 2 year SPC4 can get out and call themselves a vet.

A whole different debate would be do we consider medical discharges as retirees or in terms of being a medically retired service-member. My personal opinion is if you really appreciate the military then those who get medically separated (honorably) should not consider themselves retirees. That is traditionally for those who have served over 20 years.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Oct 1 at 2014 10:28 AM

2014-10-01T10:28:49-04:00

The answers to this question seem mostly emotional, on both sides. My question would be: "Veteran of what?" Historically the term Veteran indicated warriors who had seen combat as opposed to those who had not. Hence "Veteran Troops" and other similar phrases. There could be 'active duty' Roman Legionaires who had been recruited and passed through more intense training than most of us ever have who were still 'green' until they were 'blooded' by combat. Then they became "Veterans." Although there could still be relative judgements as to which units were 'More Veteran" than others, and thus which were more dependable and reliable.

R. A. Heinlein has some interesting things to say in his book Starship Troopers, about earning the right to vote through having placed one's life in jeopardy -at the disposal of society (much in the way some here have argued) whether or not in combat.

P.S. If anyone references the movie...just....stop it.
http://www.amazon.com/Starship-Troopers-Robert-A-Heinlein/dp/ [login to see]

Amazon.com: Starship Troopers (9780441783588): Robert A. Heinlein: Books

Response by LCDR Leland Shanle made Oct 1 at 2014 5:50 PM

2014-10-01T17:50:19-04:00

A Vet is a Vet; I retired from the Navy as an Aviator: Cold War deployments, NAS, Bosnia, Somalia and Iraq. The most dangerous tour I had was in the Training Command; we had more fatalities in the TRACOM than the fleet first week of the 91 war.

Who is going to tell those young men's (or women's) parents that they were not real Vets because when they paid the ultimate price they were in the wrong time zone?

And define Deployment; in the Navy back in my day almost everyone "deployed"; a deployment didn't mean combat. On my first cruise (deployment) we lost four squadron mates. Does that count? The air wing lost seven. And a good friend of mine was killed in Cubi Point; shore based. Do they all count as Vets? None were considered combat deployments at the time.

I have two sons who served; one was with the 10th Mountain in the Sunni Triangle: CIB/Purple Heart. My second son was with MOANG as a Crew Chief on B-2. I'm proud of both of my Veteran Sons.

Response by SGT Ian Falls made Oct 2 at 2014 12:28 AM

2014-10-02T00:28:28-04:00

now veterens sure but theres are those dirt bags that will sit there and if you dont know shit about military like damn near all civilians and feed them lie after lie after anyone elses storys they picked up while hiding and dodging deployments. that being said those are the lowest of the low anywaymy personal opinion i think the only people who should deploy are specific m.o.s's such as infantry, and group, and so forth my experiences over 3 deployments is most others just get in the way also n.g. and reserve should only dp shit in the U.S. v3ery personall reasons for that they used to shoot at us all the time while we slept on the side of the road because they saw trucks with guns. i dont feel they are mentally prepared for it all. So all veterens yes but there should be a known difference between true war fighters and fobbits

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 5 at 2014 2:25 AM

2014-10-05T02:25:59-04:00

I say yes that regardless of if you have fought in a war or not, if you have served your country with the full knowledge that you could be called to war at any time , and are willing to answer it, you deserve the title. Case in point, my father was in when the M249, M9 and HMMWV's were tested and fielded. His BN was one of the first to be issued these new 'toys' and he helped to develop the TTP's for implementing them in simulated combat scenarios in various locations(some suggestions fell on dead ears because 2/3 were recommended for the dumpster). Then when the call came for Desert Shield everyone was all packed and ready to go, but Desert Storm kicked off and shortly thereafter his BN was disbanded and he got out of the military. He had always held a bit of animosity towards the situation to the point where he didnt stand up when all Veterans were called upon to stand up during BCT graduation, and he stay seated, because he didnt feel like he had actually been able to do his part to earn the right to be called a Veteran until one of my friends that was in OIF1 told him that you don't get to choose your war. After I got back from AFG I gave him a cold war veteran shirt and he wears it consistently enough for it to show up on FB regularly.

http://www.amazon.com/Cold-War-Veteran-shirt-X-Large/dp/B00F1IDSTQ

Amazon.com: Cold War Veteran T shirt (Medium): Automotive

Response by SSG Corry Struve made Jan 18 at 2015 2:42 AM

2015-01-18T02:42:10-05:00

A veteran is someone that has served in any branch of service at any time honorably, doesn't mater if they had been deployed or not. The other is combat veteran.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2015 3:03 AM

2015-01-18T03:03:39-05:00

I spent 10 years on active duty and 2 years as a reservist before I deployed the first time for Desert Shield. If a reservist completes the requisite time and training they are a veteran. A veteran is a veteran, service is service it seems equitable.

Response by PO2 Mark Saffell made Feb 24 at 2015 4:17 PM

2015-02-24T16:17:05-05:00

Define deployed. Made two WestPacs onboard the USS Enterprise for 9 months each during the Cold War. Would you consider that deployed? I do.

Response by SSgt Thomas L. made Feb 25 at 2015 12:35 AM

2015-02-25T00:35:46-05:00

There is already an official hierarchy in place with regards to benefits for those who have deployed (things like Veterans Recruitment Appointments for government jobs), vets who have combat injuries (Combat Related Special Compensation for retirees) and all veterans. Anyone who has served, is a veteran.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 25 at 2015 6:32 AM

2015-02-25T06:32:39-05:00

If you joined as a volunteer into the military - you are a veteran. Now other like minded veterans can heckle and jeer you, all in good taste I will add, but at the end of the day that was a fellow brother or sister who would stand beside you regardless of the circumstances.

Response by SPC William Scissom made Mar 26 at 2015 3:00 PM

2015-03-26T15:00:21-04:00

If you took the oath, served your time, and were discharged honorably then you are a veteran. I would just suggest that you don't claim to be a combat veteran, there are enough people out there doing that already right up until they are asked to show their DD214 which they can never seem to find.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 9:04 PM

2015-03-27T21:04:16-04:00

Anyone that serves should be considered a "Veteran".

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2015 9:32 PM

2015-03-27T21:32:38-04:00

Well, let's wee. I spent 14 years 8 months and a day on active duty. Another 8 1/2 years in the Army Reserve (active) I spent 2 years in Japan, but, I don't think I would call it a deployment.

Sorry to anyone that thinks otherwise, but, I am a veteran.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 28 at 2015 1:29 AM

2015-03-28T01:29:24-04:00

One shouldn't be punished for what is their fate that is out of their control. A Vet is a Vet.
However, if you want to get fancy there is the modified title of "Combat Veteran".

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Mar 29 at 2015 9:42 PM

2015-03-29T21:42:03-04:00

All who took the oath and served honorably are veterans.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 9:47 PM

2015-03-29T21:47:40-04:00

I served for almost 13 years in the reserves. I volunteered extra duty to help out when needed at my reserve unit and for the Marine Corps POOLE Program. I was activated for a little over 45 days during Desert Storm at Oaknoll Naval Hospital. I have been torn over this question. I did everything asked of me and then some. I dealt with some of the worst forms of sexual harassment and fought to prove myself "worthy" enough. Since my departure I have advocated on behalf of our Veterans (especially our senior citizen veterans). I call myself a Veteran. I am trying to get back into the Navy Reserves to serve as a Public Affairs Officer but am in need of an age requirement. I am hoping and praying it will be granted. I have kept myself physically fit and want to serve out a minimum of 20 years in the reserve. If I am called to deployed I will do it with honor. So am I worthy of Veteran status? I don't know.

I do know I have the utmost respect for all those that serve but hold special admiration for those who deployed over seas and have served in combat. From that stand point I don't feel worthy.

Do I deserve Veteran Status? Some days I say yes I absolutely do, but at other times when I hear the stories of sacrifice of those who deployed like my ex, my husband and others I know or meet than I feel on the fence about the whole issue.

Response by TSgt Kevin Buccola made Mar 29 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-03-29T21:57:43-04:00

The definition of a Veteran is a person who has served in the military. Enough Said!

Response by SrA William Giraldi made Mar 29 at 2015 10:16 PM

2015-03-29T22:16:37-04:00

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member I volunteered for 5 separate deployments and NEVER went anywhere. That does NOT make me any less a veteran than anyone else. I think a better way to look at it is for critical missions, who has combat experience under their belt.

After my last volunteer effort fell through, I just didn't see any point in continuing to volunteer and got out. I wanted the experience and never got it. I don't regret not going, I just look at it as it wasn't in God's plan for me.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 10:16 PM

2015-03-29T22:16:55-04:00

No.

Response by PO2 Chris P. made Mar 29 at 2015 10:34 PM

2015-03-29T22:34:00-04:00

It doesn't matter whether a person thinks or another thinks they shouldn't claim Veterans status. What matters is what the current regulation regarding veteran status is at the time of question. Last time I checked, time in service is the primary denominator.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2015 10:36 PM

2015-03-29T22:36:55-04:00

In my opinion if you served honorably and completed your enlistment deployed or not you still are a veteran of course there is always exceptions to every rule.

Response by SP5 David Cox made Apr 1 at 2015 4:17 PM

2015-04-01T16:17:12-04:00

Just to muddy the waters a bit - somebody talked about combat vets vs. vets and went on to talk about taking rounds, etc. So what about the areas where it is still technically a combat zone, but few shots are fired. Specifically the Korean DMZ, even to this day, and West Berlin (until 1990) I was in Berlin, so I'm familiar with that. Not much shooting going on there (although you should look up Maj. Arthur D. Nicholson if you think it was completely safe), but we were 100 miles behind enemy lines and surrounded by GSFG. Does that make me a combat vet? I don't think so, but by some of the "definitions" being thrown around, it does. In the end though, we're all vets, and that is the important distinction to me.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 5:11 PM

2015-04-06T17:11:31-04:00

No. That's ridiculous. They signed up, took the same path, went through training and could have been deployed at any time. They are veterans.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 11:32 PM

2015-04-06T23:32:55-04:00

I feel that anyone who has served honorably in any branch of the military should be able and proud to call themselves a veteran. The only thing that I will add to that is if you were deployed to a combat zone, you should be able to be considered a combat veteran without getting flack from other vets that did not deploy. I have seen a lot of vets giving flack as if the combat vets were insinuating that it made them better than others and get all huffy about it saying that it isn't their fault that there were no deployments while they served. In the same turn it isn't our fault that there were deployments while we served. It is merely being more specific about our service not a contest of who served better. Off of soapbox now. Lol

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Apr 20 at 2015 9:20 AM

2015-04-20T09:20:06-04:00

If you were in .. you are a vet. Period.
We may want to draw a line as to "Deployed" and "Combat".
But a Vet is a Vet is a Vet.
Thank you for your service.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2015 11:50 AM

2015-04-20T11:50:13-04:00

Should I not be a veteran because my dates of service fell between Desert Storm & 9/11? Does my service not count because we were not actively engaged in a battle during the time of my enlistment? Should I be 'punished' for something entirely beyond my control?

Response by SGT Tj Casiano made Apr 25 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-04-25T14:18:20-04:00

I believe that anyone who served their country honorably through active service, whether deployed or in garrison deserves the title of Veteran. That being said, I do believe there should be a difference in legal status between a veteran who served in a combat zone, and one who didn't.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jul 7 at 2015 1:54 PM

2015-07-07T13:54:13-04:00

Seeing as you can't pick where you're assigned. Of course you're a veteran. But that being said, there are different definitions for differ veterans services.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2015 2:01 PM

2015-07-27T14:01:25-04:00

Sir, I am not sure why this is even a question. I agree with the other responses. If you have served, you are a veteran. Whether you deploy or not has nothing to do with being able to claim veteran status.

Response by SGT Paul Mackay made May 21 at 2016 3:11 PM

2016-05-21T15:11:23-04:00

only in reguiar military.

Response by PO3 Mack McLendon made May 25 at 2016 12:39 AM

2016-05-25T00:39:44-04:00

No. Anybody who has been in the active military, the reserves, or the National Guard has been in a position to have been sent into harm's way. ALL of us are veterans. ALL of us deserve respect. Combat veterans deserve extra respect ...

Response by SGT Taylor Adair made Jul 12 at 2016 8:48 AM

2016-07-12T08:48:37-04:00

You sign on the dotted line, you become MOS qualified, and serve 12 or 18 months, whatever it is so that you wont have to repay any enlistment bonus, then yes youre a vet. Regardless of what component, unit or number of deployments. I served 6 years active duty with a deployment.

Response by PFC Freudian Slip made Sep 10 at 2016 1:59 PM

2016-09-10T13:59:52-04:00

Response by SSgt Terry Snyder made Sep 10 at 2016 2:41 PM

2016-09-10T14:41:00-04:00

AS I HAVE STATED " YOU SIGNED THE BLANK CHECK JUST AS ANY OTHER PERSON IN THE MILITARY DID...." YOU ARE A VETERAN AS WE ALL ARE...

Response by Sgt Brian Chin made Sep 14 at 2016 2:15 PM

2016-09-14T14:15:51-04:00

I think it's silly. You go where you're needed. Whether it's abroad or overseas, it's irrelevant. You signed, you served, you're a veteran.

Response by PO3 Mack McLendon made Sep 15 at 2016 5:51 PM

2016-09-15T17:51:50-04:00

"So, for example, should a Soldier who completed basic training, had a clean service record, excelled in their peer group, but ultimately served 10 years as a reservist with no deployment and less than 180 days on non-ADT active service be prevented from calling themselves a veteran?"

This sentence contains two glaring grammatical errors.

The rules of English grammar state that when a pronoun in a sentence (called "the referent") refers back to an earlier noun or pronoun (called "the antecedent"), both the referent and the antecedent must agree as to number -- either both must be singular, or both must be plural. The rules further state that, when the antecedent is singular and of common gender (that is, when it can be either masculine or feminine), the referent takes the masculine gender.

In the quoted sentence, the antecedent "Soldier" is singular and of common gender, but the referents "their" and "themselves" are plural.

The sentence should read either:
"So, for example, should a Soldier who completed basic training, had a clean service record, excelled in HIS peer group, but ultimately served 10 years as a reservist with no deployment and less than 180 days on non-ADT active service be prevented from calling HIMSELF a veteran?"
or:
"So, for example, should SOLDIERS who completed basic training, had clean service RECORDS, excelled in their peer GROUPS, but ultimately served 10 years as RESERVISTS with no deployment and less than 180 days on non-ADT active service be prevented from calling themselves VETERANS?"

Response by SPC Justin Berry made Sep 30 at 2016 12:01 AM

2016-09-30T00:01:46-04:00

Yes, they served their country. But there is a difference in veteran and combat veteran, you get nicer tags lol

Response by SGT Gary Vaught made Sep 30 at 2016 11:10 AM

2016-09-30T11:10:13-04:00

I believe that everyone in the military plays a very important role and after they reach the 120 day mark then you are a veteran.
I am a combat wounded disabled vet and feel every support group that keep us going , from paperwork to food to ammo...everyone is needed..

Response by SPC David Whitney made Nov 22 at 2016 6:21 PM

2016-11-22T18:21:26-05:00

A vet is definitely a vet. I served in the Army Security Agency on active duty from 1955 to 1958, was tranferred to inactive status in 1958 after serving over two years in the old Pacific Theater and called up one day in 1963 before being Honorably Discharged. The Cold War may not have had any combat zones but those of us who served in some of the more-or-less clandestine branches of the services are still veterans. We signed on the line, did our jobs in total silence, and served our country!

Response by SSG O Clark made Nov 26 at 2016 2:16 AM

2016-11-26T02:16:01-05:00

You have to be deployed for more than 180 days in combat to be called a veteran

Response by SPC Justin Foster made Mar 16 at 2017 11:18 AM

2017-03-16T11:18:52-04:00

I agree with most here. If you served honorably, you're a veteran. However, there is certainly a distinction between veterans and combat veterans (those who served in a combat zone). I'll also go a step further and say there is a difference in combat veterans and combat action veterans (those who were actually involved in a firefight). I am a combat veteran but not a combat action veteran. I have the utmost respect for those who are in what I consider to be the highest class of Americans, combat action veterans. I'm proud of my service but understand others are more deserving of respect and recognition. Just my thoughts..

Response by TSgt Tommy Amparano made Mar 16 at 2017 11:26 AM

2017-03-16T11:26:04-04:00

Fake controversy. Everyone who serves is a veteran. Anyone in uniform can be ordered to a combat zone at anytime. Everyone in uniform has been trained at least once how to fire a weapon. Sure some people have sacrificed more than others and I salute them for that, but no one is ever going to tell me I am not a veteran because I was not shot at.

Response by PO2 Josh Taylor made Mar 16 at 2017 11:46 AM

2017-03-16T11:46:53-04:00

Response by CPL Donald McKenna made Mar 16 at 2017 12:16 PM

2017-03-16T12:16:31-04:00

So, service members who retire after serving their 20 under a MEDDAC, MI, or JAG command aren't veterans?

68E's get DD-214's just like everyone else. You get that paper and you're a veteran. Period.

Response by PO3 Randall Lloy made Mar 16 at 2017 12:34 PM

2017-03-16T12:34:18-04:00

No if you served you served, I wrote the same check other veterans wrote and yes instead of going to Vietnam I was stationed at pearl. The Navy could have sent me anywhere they wanted. On that note I never claim to be a Vietnam veteran I say Vietnam era veteran.

Response by SSG Matthew Koehler made Mar 16 at 2017 1:01 PM

2017-03-16T13:01:48-04:00

Absolutely not. Anyone who has served their country on active duty orders 180 days or more is a Veteran. It does not necessarily mean you must served in a combat zone. Think about it. The entire world is a combat zone...

Response by SGT James Colwell made Mar 16 at 2017 3:00 PM

2017-03-16T15:00:28-04:00

And what about veterans like me who served active duty combat arms for 6 years and never deployed? Why is this even a question? If you served honorably you are a veteran. It shouldn't matter WHERE you served. Honorable service (in MY opinion) means you were MOS qualified, meaning you made it through Basic and AIT, and served in a unit. I have no idea what regulations say, but if you earned a GCM, I would think you qualify for veteran status, unless you totally screwed up after earning the GCM. Again, no idea what the regs say. If you fulfilled your contract and were discharged honorably, welcome to veteran status.

Response by Sgt John Koliha made Mar 16 at 2017 3:21 PM

2017-03-16T15:21:34-04:00

Sure let's categorize and separate into different groups. Then let's say the only true veteran is one who was in combat. Then let's say that unless you carried a rifle you're not a vet; leaving out artillery and motor transport. And if you were wounded by small arms and RPG fire you're the only true veteran; leaving out those wounded by IED's and artillery fire.

I feel I'm a Veteran and deserving of my PHM even though I didn't bleed a drop. I carry 70% disability just for my hearing loss. And in ways am more disabled than my friends who were shot. Is there anyone out there who wants to say I am not a Veteran? The Marine Corps retired me because of my various disabilities, and you now think that YOU can pass judgement?

Personally, I am offended and sick of this kind of BS. Why does one feel better about themselves only when they try to drag someone else down. Doing this doesn't elevate them one bit.

This is about this stuff, and NOT about the original Post.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Mar 16 at 2017 4:00 PM

2017-03-16T16:00:08-04:00

Oath, Uniform = Veteran.
No Oath, no Uniform= civilian.

Response by 1SG Billy Greene made Mar 16 at 2017 4:00 PM

2017-03-16T16:00:39-04:00

In my books a veteran is described under Title 38 of the code of Federal Regulations which defines a veteran as "a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2017 4:12 PM

2017-03-16T16:12:48-04:00

no absolutely not, did we forget the cold war, soldiers training for the fight against Russia but that never happened, they still did their jobs and where always ready to jump into the mix, why would we classify them as non vets because they weren't deployed, I agree that unless they suffered from injury or illness while serving their benefits should be different, but also the soldier deployed as a service/support element, unless their injury/illness was contracted while on deployment their still a vet regardless, there are many combat vets out there that never saw one bullet fired at them, but where out there when the shit hit the fan, they are combat vets due to the facts of the incident, whether it was direct or indirect fire, they are still vets but with different problems, but they are treated for those problems only, no pay due, service connected, anything else is their dime, unless rated 100%, so a veteran is a veteran irreguardless, the level of care depends on when it happened, how it happened and your duty status at the time and your location, whether you are a 20 year desk jockey or a one year combat vet we're all vets, get ride of the labels we all served

Response by SSG Bryan McDougal made Mar 16 at 2017 7:01 PM

2017-03-16T19:01:13-04:00

Sir, I'm not sure there is a answerable question here. For myself it comes down to looking in the mirror and being able to not be ashamed of what I see. Some people will play it up and some will down play their experience. I don't want to take anything away from other veterans but most certainly some experiences are more relevant than others. Deployments are one of them but not the only one. At the end of the day what matters is if you or anyone can say (and mean it) "I served and acted with honor." If "yes" good 2 go, if "no", then don't devalue other veteran's service by claiming to be one. Have a good day Lt.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2017 7:09 PM

2017-03-16T19:09:36-04:00

Response by SSgt Bob Mobbs made Mar 16 at 2017 9:05 PM

2017-03-16T21:05:16-04:00

You signed on the line, served your country and were ready to go where they sent you when they sent you. That makes you a Veteran in my book. The fact that you were not selected for deployment shouldn't be an issue.

Response by CW4 Angel C. made Mar 16 at 2017 9:20 PM

2017-03-16T21:20:04-04:00

This is an easy one. There are veterans and there are combat veterans. But they're both veterans! I'm an Army Retiree, Veteran and Combat Veteran. But when I meet other vets I don't care what type of Veteran they are. Anyone that thinks they above any other service member or Veteran should look twice at their service tape. It says U.S., us, brothers and sisters!

Response by PO1 Eric Booker made Mar 16 at 2017 10:19 PM

2017-03-16T22:19:51-04:00

Who makes this stuff up?

IF you served and were discharged honorably...you're a veteran. Period. The title "Veteran" isn't just reserved for those who "did" but those who are/willing to "DO" for this country. My guess is that there are a great number of "non combat" veterans who if asked, would have gladly swapped spots or voluntarily deployed to CZ's.

Ridiculous...

Response by PFC Jim Mills made Mar 16 at 2017 10:25 PM

2017-03-16T22:25:25-04:00

Ask yourself this simple question " how many people didn't sign up and take the oath and how many couldn't even make it through basic ! I would much rather you watch my six than some scumbag that talked down on our military and didn't have the guts to serve ! Thanks for your service brother

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2017 10:46 PM

2017-03-16T22:46:16-04:00

If you passed AIT, went to a unit deployed or not! You sir or madam are a veteran. But, what about the people who got dishonorable discharge, are they considered veterans?

Response by GySgt John Pado made Mar 16 at 2017 11:38 PM

2017-03-16T23:38:21-04:00

This "article" is a waste of time.

Response by SPC Sharon Shamblin made Mar 17 at 2017 1:21 AM

2017-03-17T01:21:38-04:00

Not everyone will see combat, I know a lot of veterans that haven't been to a combat zone, but still served. Its nothing to be ashamed of, honestly some units get orders and some don't. Its just a matter of who is needed at the time. You are a veteran REGARDLESS if you been to combat or not. Its just an extra word on paper.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 17 at 2017 6:52 AM

2017-03-17T06:52:22-04:00

The VA and the state of Michigan designated me as a veteran, and I served 24 yrs. with MIARNG proudly.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Mar 17 at 2017 9:37 AM

2017-03-17T09:37:56-04:00

A veteran is a veteran is a veteran; anyone is liable to go anywhere anytime during their service. Some just get the rose pinned on them and go to war.

Response by SPC Erick Renteria Flores made Mar 17 at 2017 12:18 PM

2017-03-17T12:18:39-04:00

All who served are vets, and the ones that deploy to combat zone are combat vets in my opinion, unless I'm wrong but it's what I been told....anyways we all VETS

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2017 1:38 PM

2017-03-17T13:38:40-04:00

I have been on active duty since 2006. I enlisted during a time of war and have not experienced war. I serve in a support role and take great pride in serving my country and supporting other service members who are down range. As others stated, it is not my fault I haven't been deployed. I, like almost everyone else in my position, would jump at the chance to be forward. It is alarming that because I have not seen combat I might not be considered a veteran when I no longer wear my uniform. At least in some people's opinions. I agree there is a distinguishing line between a veteran and a combat veteran. To go any further than that would be insanity. As everyone else stated, this is only my opinion.

Response by SGT Sunny Lalingua made Mar 17 at 2017 3:18 PM

2017-03-17T15:18:14-04:00

VFW is reserved for those veterans who served in the military during a time of war on foreign soil. That makes you a combat veteran. If you served where there wasn't a war regardless of whose land you were standing on, you are a veteran. If you served more than 180 consecutive days on active duty you are a veteran by the standards of the military who hired you. End of question doubt, and deception.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2017 11:12 AM

2017-03-18T11:12:50-04:00

Imho, anyone who served honorably and retired, was discharged or resigned a commission is a vet. VFW and Foreign Legion are honors reserved for Combat Vets.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 18 at 2017 7:57 PM

2017-03-18T19:57:17-04:00

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member No, it for anyone who served honorably. Combat Veteran is what call those who have deployed. Then with the latter there are gray areas and disagreements based on where you went and what you did. So is based on regulation and policy, and some is based on personal opinion.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2017 4:48 PM

2017-03-21T16:48:36-04:00

Dumbest thing I've read in a while!! A veteran is a veteran! Deployed or not.. My unit deployed 2 times in 4 years and they kept me back each time for my proficient work that I do.. so just because I'm to good at my job and wasn't able to deploy means I'm not a Vet?? Yeeeeaaaahhh Alright!!!

Response by Sgt Mark Birkholz made May 2 at 2017 7:43 PM

2017-05-02T19:43:17-04:00

I served 8 yrs IN the Corps and never saw action.

Response by SSgt Terry Snyder made May 4 at 2017 4:30 PM

2017-05-04T16:30:38-04:00

As I have responded before to this question it is a RESOUNDING HELL NO..We all signed the same blank check to our country, in my view we are all veterans that have served our Country with honor and dedication and if you have a DD214 YOU ARE A VETERAN PERIOD. If any one tells you different , tell them to put it where the SUN DOES NOT SHINE.....

Response by CPL Anne (Karpinski) Pfeiffer made May 5 at 2017 4:49 PM

2017-05-05T16:49:15-04:00

I think there should be another level of veteran status (or whatever you want to call it). I myself served over a decade, but I did not deploy. I served from 1985-1995 and I never went to a "combat zone". I am considered a Vet, but I am not eleigible for any type of Veteran's Preference for hiring, or anything else. I gave up 10 years of my life for my country and went where they told me to go and did what they told me to do. I had no NJP and was honorably discharged, and yet I can't join the VFW, the AL, or get hiring preferences all because I never deployed. I spent nearly 4 years in West Germany defending the Fulda Gap in 3rd Armored Division during the Cold War and returned stateside in November 1990 (during Desert Storm) but my stateside unit did not deploy. I was in the Reserves from Dec 1990-Dec 1992 (going to 91C school (Army Nurse) at a civilian school paid for by Uncle Sam) and then retruned to Active Duty until 1995 when I got out. I feel like in certain instances that our service is cheapened by the fact that we did not deploy. After all, it's not MY fault we weren't at WAR while I was serving or the unit I was in didn't deploy. Just my Two Cents.

In addition-- the Cold War was just that-- It was a WAR, but with no fighting. and anyone who thinks being in Europe during the Cold War was easy, then they must have been at 1st PERSCOM! Because they certainly weren't in 3AD, 8ID, or any of the other divisions assigned to West Germany to defend the Fulda Gap. They didn't live with monthly alerts, roll outs to the GAP or ARTEP, REFORGER, CARAVAN GUARD-- in addition to Gunnery at Graf & FTX Hohenfels, Wildflecken, or Baumholder! We were soldiers too and it was a stressful and hard job during that time!

Response by A1C Patrick Broiles made May 18 at 2017 10:55 PM

2017-05-18T22:55:27-04:00

We are ALL Veterans no matter where or when we Serve our Country . After all many a man and woman have been killed there first day in a combat area , died during training etc. We are all Brothers and Sisters and must support each other or others will take away our status with just a signature .

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 1 at 2017 12:02 PM

2017-06-01T12:02:24-04:00

This is something I've often wondered myself. I've volunteered for deployments and though I had 1's all the way on PULHES I still was not able to go because of available slots. I often feel upset when people tell me "Thank You for your service" because I know I haven't served the way I wanted to.

But this is a great question and I like the responses given.

Response by Maj Lonnie Adkins made Aug 11 at 2017 11:10 AM

2017-08-11T11:10:41-04:00

Just might want to contemplate those Cold Warriors, who often flew hazardous missions along the SovCom/ChiCom borders (or patrolled, ThanX! my navy brethren). Or those who served in some South American Hellhole against the Narco-guerillas. Or spent some very cold years in McMurdo, Thule, or along the DEW line. Don't get too full of yourselves, there are generations before you, who didn't "deploy" We lived there.

Response by CPL Jacques Leblanc made Aug 11 at 2017 11:11 AM

2017-08-11T11:11:45-04:00

Response by Cpl Geoff Withnell made Aug 11 at 2017 5:20 PM

2017-08-11T17:20:10-04:00

If you took the oath, you go where they tell you to go and do what they tell you to do. I have the Combat Action Ribbon, but if you took the oath and honored it, you are a veteran and my comrade.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2017 5:26 PM

2017-08-11T17:26:09-04:00

Of course not.

Response by PO2 Brad Walker made Aug 11 at 2017 6:31 PM

2017-08-11T18:31:10-04:00

No, we all gave up a part of our lives to serve.

Response by SPC Marcus Sellers made Aug 11 at 2017 6:36 PM

2017-08-11T18:36:41-04:00

I was on leave before my unit deployed and a drink guy pulled out imprint of me and I broke both my legs are tore alot of stuff up in my body including my hip and femur was out back together I missed to deployment got forced out on a med board they wouldnt let me fight the med board so i do not consider myself a vet I only spent 3 1/2 out of my 4 years in

Response by SFC Bill Meeler made Aug 11 at 2017 7:38 PM

2017-08-11T19:38:54-04:00

I have never been deployed! I do wear a medal that only an elite few have the honor of wearing, the WWII Army of Occupation Medal. So my question is "Seeing that I have never been deployed am I considered a Veteran?" VFW (Veterans of Foriegn Wars) says that I am eligible to join their organization. I am retired and the VA (Veterans Administration) says I am eligible for benefits. I agree with all above!

Response by MSG John Wirts made Aug 11 at 2017 7:43 PM

2017-08-11T19:43:32-04:00

When I joined the Army in Jun 1962 we were not at war. I believe it was Jul 1964 that was established as the start of the Vietnam war, but that was not established until after Jun 1965. When I ets'd on 08 Jun 1965, I had no medals and no veteran status. When I went to work for U.S. Civil Service I was a non-vet with no veteran preference. I joined the Air National Guard and when the U.S. officially recognized the start of the Vietnam war I received the NDSM and my civil service status was changed from non-vet to veteran with 5 point veteran preference. I continued my service in the Air National Guard, but was never mobilized. I changed to the Army Guard, served 2 years and no mobilization. I changed to the Army Reserve and served from 1976-1993 and still no mobilization. In Jun 1993 I was rif'd to the Retired Reserve, never mobilized very few reserve or NG were ever mobilized back then. But we were in the military and subject to mobilization! The end of the draft spelled the end of the reserves being held back, now all resources being used, and with the rif to pre WW II levels we could no longer hold back. So Clod War Veterans are just that Veterans.

Response by SPC Duane Pinkham made Aug 11 at 2017 7:50 PM

2017-08-11T19:50:53-04:00

i am viet nam era seved 1974 to 1976 i get my bennies and my pension i earned it

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Aug 11 at 2017 7:57 PM

2017-08-11T19:57:46-04:00

I always said "The only stupid question is the one never ask", but now I have to retract my statement Sir!!!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 11 at 2017 8:09 PM

2017-08-11T20:09:31-04:00

"The distinction between a military retiree and a military veteran may be blurred at times. Basically, a veteran is anyone who serves in the military for any length of time. The distinction is based primarily on years of service.
The following information is taken from the American War Veterans website.

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.

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.

Response by PFC Joshua Siler made Aug 11 at 2017 9:23 PM

2017-08-11T21:23:32-04:00

Veterans then there is combat veteran.

Response by COL William Oseles made Aug 11 at 2017 9:35 PM

2017-08-11T21:35:21-04:00

When the thinking goes down that path the next logical step is deployment is not enough, you have to be combat arms.
Then continuing down that path you come to you have to had gone on patrol or had your base attacked.
Then you get to you have to have earned a Purple Heart or award for valor.
Finally you get to the point where politicians decide we don't need Veteran Affairs and roll everyone into Medicare.
Be careful what you wish for.

Response by PO1 Keith Baldwin made Aug 11 at 2017 11:10 PM

2017-08-11T23:10:36-04:00

MT1(SS) if you filled out the check for up to and including your life and completed your duty Honorably you are a veteran. To say because I never saw combat because I did my time between Nam and the Gulf war when I made 9 deterant patrols onboard two diferent boomer subs is ridiculous.

Response by SSgt Jim Wilson made Aug 11 at 2017 11:40 PM

2017-08-11T23:40:42-04:00

If you served you are a veteran. If you served in a combat zone, you are just a little bit more veteran. From a 5 time combat veteran. We all served...

Response by SPC Steve Mata made Aug 12 at 2017 7:31 AM

2017-08-12T07:31:16-04:00

You're a Veteran. I serve for 7 years active duty Army. I did 2 deployments to Iraq. Yes there is difference between the one's who deployed and live outside the wired. Then you have one's who never left the FOB. Then the one's who never deploy at all. In my book if you sign up and serve in the military and did your time. I know you still be a veteran, because we're all one big family for life. I pray for all my brother's and sister's to have wonderful life. Y'all are all Veteran's and be proud to be serve your country.

Response by SFC Mark Brown made Aug 12 at 2017 8:32 AM

2017-08-12T08:32:19-04:00

If you served honorably, your a veteran. It doesn't matter. I had three combat tours in the ARNG. I still consider anyone who wore the uniform to be a veteran regardless of deployments or not.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2017 9:03 AM

2017-08-12T09:03:35-04:00

Dictionary definition of "veteran ": "Someone who has served in the military." Period, end of statement. I've done three tours as an aviation mechanic, I have friends who (through no fault of their own) haven't deployed in their decade+ I the military, and they are as much veterans as me.

Response by Sgt Aldo Espinoza made Aug 12 at 2017 5:16 PM

2017-08-12T17:16:31-04:00

I am a combat veteran, but I will never think any less of a service member who didn't deploy. I know we may give each other shit amongst ourselves, but the fact of the matter is that we all signed up to defend this country regardless of what your job was. To all who served, thank you

Response by CW4 Brian Haas made Aug 12 at 2017 6:46 PM

2017-08-12T18:46:33-04:00

Honestly, if you look at all the companies that are owned and operated by "operators" or "combat Vets" or "Rangers"...hell, there weren't that many MTOE positions!!! It seems everyone claims that crap nowadays. You even see them at the gun ranges with their camp hat and Operator Beard...give. me. a. break.

You served. Doesn't matter how, where, how long. And to those that would question it...tell them to eat a bowl of...ummm...cheerios...yeah...cheerios.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2017 6:51 PM

2017-08-12T18:51:56-04:00

Should NFL/MLB players that only get to play in games be called veterans versus those who only sit the bench or play when far ahead/behind? It's the same thing.

Next Slide!!!

Response by Cpl Brian Escobar made Aug 12 at 2017 7:06 PM

2017-08-12T19:06:46-04:00

Speaking as a CAR Marine of the Gulf War/Somalia Era I believe that Veterans who stand post are Veterans period, regardless of whether they saw fulltime deployment, combat, or otherwise. What we must understand and stay united behind is the fact that today less than 28% of Americans have ever served in their country in any capacity!! That is a small advocacy group I'd you ask me. I mean who is going to sympathize more with my busted knee from all the forced road marches, or my shitty right ear from all the weapons I was forced to fire and listen to....a civilian?! They have no freaking clue...so us veterans being decided is just silly....no....stupid. UNITED WE STAND!

Response by SSG Zach McIlwain made Aug 12 at 2017 8:42 PM

2017-08-12T20:42:19-04:00

You of course hold the title of veteran. The title of combat veteran is reserved for those of us that served in combat. As one can assume, even that title has varying degrees as well, e.g. CIB, CMB, CAB (in that order).

Response by SSG Ernest Gonzales made Aug 12 at 2017 9:56 PM

2017-08-12T21:56:18-04:00

I think the honorably discharged should be the only ones who can claim veteran stays. As it is now, you can only claim certain benefits if you honorably discharged only, like a veteran status on your drivers license. Most benefits like the VA home loan require timeframes and discharge requirements. Anyone with a bad conduct or other than honorable discharge, should not be able to claim veteran for benefits...in my opinion. It should not have anything to do with where they served, but how they served.

Response by SPC Kerry Pinkstaff made Aug 12 at 2017 11:44 PM

2017-08-12T23:44:52-04:00

Sir ask a pvt

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2017 1:13 AM

2017-08-13T01:13:27-04:00

In agreement with the vast majority that have commented, if you served your country, honorably, then you are in fact, a veteran. However, I also believe there should be a distingushment for those who deployed to an active war zone. The term "Combat Veteran," should be applied to these individuals.

Response by PO2 William Roberts made Aug 13 at 2017 8:12 AM

2017-08-13T08:12:55-04:00

The idea that my entire command wouldn't have been considered veterans, simply because we were on a submarine is bogus. Not only that but being a Nuke MM, you can't EVER even volunteer for an IA billet due to your training being too valuable in the fleet and maintenance activities. I'm sorry but this question is just inflammatory bullshit. Combat veterans already get special treatment through the American Legion and VFW, why do you need to add another level of branch shaming to this?

Response by SPC Frank Novosel made Aug 13 at 2017 9:30 AM

2017-08-13T09:30:13-04:00

Regardless of weather we deployed or not I believe that if you did one long term contact or reenlisted off a short term than we have the right and are entitled i wave my DD214 in everyone's face any chance I get because I had the balls to join and you did not I won't back up I won't back down from this and let me find someone who is man enough to stop me no one has any balls anymore at least I still have a set

Response by CW4 Robert Augur made Aug 13 at 2017 9:37 AM

2017-08-13T09:37:42-04:00

What is a Veteran? 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.

References: For more information on:

the definition of the term Veteran for purposes of compensation, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and death pension, see
38 CFR 3.1(d), and Paulson v. Brown, 7 Vet.App. 466, 470 (1995), and

groups approved for Veteran status under Public Law (PL) 95-202 and 106-259, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iii, 2.K.3.

Response by CPL Chris Levings made Aug 13 at 2017 12:48 PM

2017-08-13T12:48:28-04:00

If you call yourself a vet you better have some good stories or no one will take you seriously

Response by PO1 Supa D Dtmob made Aug 13 at 2017 2:46 PM

2017-08-13T14:46:55-04:00

I love the responses from everyone. I've deployed several times and not once did i consider those still on the beach less of a sailor than because they are still critical to the success of those who deploy. Shipping parts ammo food and anything else. Making sure our reliefs are ready to go. Those individuals are veterans just the same.

Response by SSgt Andre Agravar made Aug 13 at 2017 4:50 PM

2017-08-13T16:50:19-04:00

20% of our forces do the heavy lifting but 100% get the same label. It's different, it just is. The PC thing to say is we're all the same, but we are not. Some chose to support the warfighters and thats great and way better than folks that just support us with words. But there is more that combat vets have experienced than most others. MOS, or title is irrelevant. Were you out the wire patrolling or on mission or did you just stay within the wire? I and grateful for the support of all supporting arms but ultimately there is a distinction that should be respected or at least acknowledged.

Response by Cpl Steve Murdock made Aug 13 at 2017 6:30 PM

2017-08-13T18:30:02-04:00

If you took the oath and sign d a "blank check" and served honorably...then yes your a vet. I deployed 3 times by if your a vet your a vet period!

Response by SGT Kevin Brennan made Aug 13 at 2017 10:10 PM

2017-08-13T22:10:24-04:00

A veteran is anyone who has honorably served their country in the military!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2017 11:13 AM

2017-08-14T11:13:56-04:00

Gatekeeping: When someone takes it upon themselves to decide who does or does not have access or rights to a community or identity.

Anyone caught gatekeeping should be told to fuck off accordingly.

Response by Sgt Aaron Fairfield made Aug 14 at 2017 2:02 PM

2017-08-14T14:02:58-04:00

There is already segmented benefits and honors for "levels" of Veteran. All who serve are Veterans.

Response by MSgt Troy Blank made Aug 14 at 2017 2:14 PM

2017-08-14T14:14:52-04:00

No.....

Response by SPC Jackson Young made Aug 14 at 2017 2:39 PM

2017-08-14T14:39:35-04:00

Deployment is a lottery, service to your country is a volunteer choice. That being said when you swear in as your oath states you will defend your country, in that moment you earn the title of being a future Veteran.
Everyone who knows or is worth their uniform the coveted title of "combat Veteran" is the most sacred. To earn the CIB (Combat Infantry Badge) we all know as Veterans is the pinnacle of service. However, earning the EIB (Expert Infantry Badge), can be earned in peacetime or war time. The bottom line is this whether you ever deploy or not you earn the title of Veteran provided you garner honorable service.
But just because you serve during war time, you never call yourself a combat Veteran unless you been there done that.
We shouldn't make those who served honorably any less of Veteran than those who went to combat, because at the end of the day you are a solider first and that's what we all sign up to do. It's not a point of choice of when and if that happens.
Drive on Ranger

Response by 1SG Jesus Lopez made Aug 14 at 2017 8:48 PM

2017-08-14T20:48:29-04:00

I agree.

Response by Sgt Brian Brown made Aug 14 at 2017 10:14 PM

2017-08-14T22:14:11-04:00

There are lots of service members who never leave the states but do tons of work to cleare the way for boots on the ground! No one member could do their job without the other!! Besides there are members deployed in a combat zone but never see combat!

Response by LCpl George Herendeen made Aug 14 at 2017 10:36 PM

2017-08-14T22:36:14-04:00

I feel that a Veteran is a member of any of the branches of Armed Forces that has completed one term of service under good standing. Can hold the title until they disgrace our honor we've earned with our blood and sweat of veterans past and present and those who are to earn the title in future.

Response by SPC Todd Rhoades made Aug 14 at 2017 10:56 PM

2017-08-14T22:56:56-04:00

I know half a dozen retired CSMs that call me brother. Nuff said.

Response by SGM Mitchell Fitzgerald made Aug 15 at 2017 1:55 AM

2017-08-15T01:55:24-04:00

No because some Beterans served during Cold War and never saw Combat

Response by Cpl Elijah Gordon made Aug 15 at 2017 10:31 AM

2017-08-15T10:31:00-04:00

Tell them your a vet...civilians always ask if you were deployed and saw combat. You don't need to do it for them.

Response by GySgt Craig Averill made Aug 15 at 2017 10:32 AM

2017-08-15T10:32:26-04:00

Veteran Status is for anyone who has served more than 180 consecutive days of Active Duty, period. That is the way it should remain.

Response by MSgt Barney Lee made Aug 15 at 2017 10:48 AM

2017-08-15T10:48:49-04:00

I did 32 years, active and reserve. I have heard some say that because I was Air Force I should not claim veteran status.

This is horse pucky. I heard the rockets and mortars falling around my head. I saw the ripped and torn bodies of my comrades. Any one who thinks I am not a veteran is a fool.

Response by SPC Jon Wallace made Aug 15 at 2017 12:20 PM

2017-08-15T12:20:07-04:00

There is veterans and combat veterans. We all signed but some did more than others is how I feel.

Response by Sgt David Wood made Aug 15 at 2017 1:46 PM

2017-08-15T13:46:31-04:00

I believe there is an unclear distinction made by some between vet and combat vet. If you served, you are a veteran.

Response by SGT Kevin Unruh made Aug 15 at 2017 1:57 PM

2017-08-15T13:57:33-04:00

Any one who completed Basic Training and their job school and showed to a unit is a veteran. Are there different tiers? Yes. AD, reserve and guard, combat veteran. But just because the guys that served the 2nd half of the 70s didn't get called to go fight somewhere doesn't mean they aren't vets. Just means they were holding the line against the big bad Bear waiting to get called. Only ones that irritate me when calling themselves vets are those that washed out in training. No sunshine, if you never made it to your first unit, you don't get the title. Consider Elvis and Jimmy Hendrix. Elvis got out early on a hardship when his mom died. Hendrix got booted. Yet any mil themed site will claims them as Army brothers. But the POS that killed the woman in Charlottesville washed out of Basic. This is only worth mentioning while the media finds something else to say about him, and had he not done that would have only been impressive to himself not the countless people he likely told. Just my two cents, time for more coffee.

Response by SGT Evans Justin made Aug 15 at 2017 2:34 PM

2017-08-15T14:34:01-04:00

Much like getting to Heaven only requires faith and not works. Being a veteran only requires honorable service and not a deployment.

Response by Cpl Mark Lovell made Aug 15 at 2017 2:34 PM

2017-08-15T14:34:50-04:00

You raised your right hand and took an oath to defend your country against all enemies foreign or domestic. You served. You are a Veteran!!

Response by SSG Chris Allsopp made Aug 15 at 2017 2:38 PM

2017-08-15T14:38:45-04:00

Inside I feel a little bitter about people who claim vet status without combat. But the signed the dotted line. In the end they offered.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 2:48 PM

2017-08-15T14:48:58-04:00

Response by PO2 Michael Sayre made Aug 15 at 2017 3:01 PM

2017-08-15T15:01:41-04:00

It's more important that you volunteered than regaling people with stories on how you almost joined. That's the real difference.

That you haven't yet been called upon to stare Death in the eyes can be seen as either a positive or negative. But remember this: there is still time.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 3:11 PM

2017-08-15T15:11:40-04:00

Personally, I've served about 7 years mostly active duty and now reserves.. worked many important missions State side, and have volunteered for every deployment I've had a chance at.. still never deployed.. I've been through shootings I've seen ppl get seriously injured and have been pretty damn injured myself over my years in service.. but I still don't really consider myself a veteran.. and I kinda hate seeing soldiers that medically discharge for some bullshit with in their first year of service with out deployments or anything that consider themselves veterans.. at least finish your first contact to the fullest.. before you start taking the honor from the ppl that have earned the title the hard way.. that's how I feel anyhow.. no disrespect to anyone

Response by SGT Gabriel Brown made Aug 15 at 2017 3:12 PM

2017-08-15T15:12:55-04:00

I started out Marine Corps Infantry, did two deployments, became a contractor and went to AFG, then got a wild hair in my ass and joined the Guard Infantry. While in the Guard, I was appalled to find out that some of my soldiers were not legally considered "veterans" according to the Dept. of Labor. Apparently, if you join the Guard or reserves and do not have X amount of days on active duty, then you do not rate this status. What's more is that it also affects their ability to get a VA home loan. This means if you picked an MOS that has a rather long AIT or A-school, you will be granted veteran status by their formula, whereas others will not. I think that it's a crock of crap.

From the POGiest weekend warrior to the lifer Grunt, they are ALL veterans. I seriously believe that more awareness should be brought to this subject, and that it should be rectified.

Response by COL Walt Frederick made Aug 15 at 2017 3:52 PM

2017-08-15T15:52:26-04:00

I was in the ARNG for nearly 30 years and never deployed. It is something I am not only ashamed of, but think about nearly everyday of the week. I do not consider myself a veteran and will correct people when they call me one. When it comes to deployments I could not control my destiny but I wish I could have.

Response by J Leigh Tarzian made Aug 15 at 2017 3:59 PM

2017-08-15T15:59:39-04:00

While I am not a veteran, I do come from a military family, my father, step-father, step brothers, brother-in-law, and husband all served. Some were deployed others were not. My husband served quite literally at the end of the Vietnam War and was not deployed, he still served this country in military service, he is a veteran.

Response by SSG Albert Christopher made Aug 15 at 2017 4:12 PM

2017-08-15T16:12:15-04:00

If you honorably served in the military, you are a veteran. It is true that I have a special place in my heart for my brothers and sisters who went through what I did, but I just think "All gave some, some gave all." I gave somewhere in the middle.

Response by SFC Charles Kauffman made Aug 15 at 2017 4:31 PM

2017-08-15T16:31:30-04:00

You're a veteran.

Response by SGT Jeremy Berry made Aug 15 at 2017 4:57 PM

2017-08-15T16:57:29-04:00

I have deployed three times, the first was in 1997 while on AD. Got RIF'ed and reupped in 2001 and out of 10 years in the Guard, spent 7.5 years on title 10 orders. In most longer campaigns nowadays the reserve components get tasked pretty heavily. If not whole units there are still a lot of individual augmentees pulled out of guard units and plugged into other guard or AD units to round them out for a deployment. As to combat arms units the Guard has over half of all the combat arms units in the army.

Response by PO2 Sean Baker made Aug 15 at 2017 5:02 PM

2017-08-15T17:02:56-04:00

If you graduated basic training and spent 1 day as a Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Jarhead, you are a veteran.

Response by Cpl Thomas Wiklanski made Aug 15 at 2017 5:25 PM

2017-08-15T17:25:10-04:00

Anyone who served honorably is considered a veteran. It doesn't matter if you were a cook or a grunt. You signed that "blank check" for "up to and including one's life". That is good enough for me...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 5:27 PM

2017-08-15T17:27:13-04:00

The word "veteran" isn't supposed to carry that connotation. It doesn't mean "has deployed" or "has been in combat". It means one has served. Period, the end, dot com.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 5:28 PM

2017-08-15T17:28:31-04:00

I suppose there is a difference and it come with the level of entitlements one may be granted by the VA. A service member that complete 20 years of service is a vetren. Like wise a service member who served in a combat zone (Korea doesn't count ...yet) these too ware considers Vetrens by the VA. Those fine Americans that meather served in combat or didn't reaching 20 year or equivalent for compo 2 and 3 are certainly allowed to call themselves "vets" but their level of entitlements from the VA, PX, commissary , TRICARE for life, etc offer the biggest distinction.

Response by SPC Michael Mead made Aug 15 at 2017 5:30 PM

2017-08-15T17:30:29-04:00

This is about as divisive an argument as there can be among those who've served. One's deployment record is of no account in stating one is a veteran. The fact is that, in the history of our great nation, the overwhelming majority of people who've worn the uniform have not seen combat. Questioning their status as veterans only gives fuel to those who dislike us in any case.

Response by MSG Bennie McGrew made Aug 15 at 2017 5:43 PM

2017-08-15T17:43:54-04:00

All who served honorably are Veterans.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 5:50 PM

2017-08-15T17:50:58-04:00

Your in the wrong ARNG unit. My unit in LA is getting ready to go down range once again.

Response by MSG David Johnson made Aug 15 at 2017 6:31 PM

2017-08-15T18:31:24-04:00

I do not remember where I read the regulation, but the wording stuck with me. I had friends in this status.
An Army Reservist who has not been on active for anything other than training is not, nor should state that they are a Veteran.
@1LT Brett Gardner I'm in total agreement with your statement, it should not even be an issue, but it is in writing somewhere. I wish my memory wasn't as crap as it is.
I spent 13 years of active duty time and deployed to ODS, I spent 12 years in a reserve status and volunteered for both of my deployments to OIF.
The name tape says US Army, it doesn't say Army Reserve, or Army National Guard. If you served you are a Veteran in my eyes.

Now the argument about being a Combat Vet is a different story.
If you spent the entire deployment in Camp Arifjan, or Camp Doha and didn't need to carry a weapon on you as part of your uniform, you should not consider yourself a Combat Vet.

Response by SGT Carl Brown made Aug 15 at 2017 6:38 PM

2017-08-15T18:38:28-04:00

I have talked to veterans from Australia and in that country you can't get any benefits from their VA system UNLESS you served in combat. You don't even get the claim veteran status unless you served in combat. In this country if you served your enlistment time even for one contract you can claim the title veteran... there are times I'm with the Aussies while other times I'm not it's a tough decision...but then it reduces the fakers causing long waits... in that case I say you haven't been down range your not a vet...

Response by SSgt DeAndray Dyer made Aug 15 at 2017 6:39 PM

2017-08-15T18:39:16-04:00

We couldn't do what we do on the front lines without those in the rear with the gear!

Response by PFC David McLeod made Aug 15 at 2017 6:40 PM

2017-08-15T18:40:57-04:00

Some of us served in time of "peace" so there wouldn't be a need for any deployments.
You do realize we lose service members every year in non combat zones?
If you've worn the uniform with honor you're a veteran.

Response by PO3 David Mondello made Aug 15 at 2017 6:41 PM

2017-08-15T18:41:13-04:00

I trained,stood watch. Deployed twice to the Med 6 months at a time. Honorably Discharged in 1981. I believe I'm entitled to be called Veteran. Most of my peers stayed home.

Response by PV2 Tyler Markley made Aug 15 at 2017 6:54 PM

2017-08-15T18:54:56-04:00

In my honest opinion, a veteran is any Service Member that has served Honorable, General, or Other Than Honorable are Veterans. Those that have deployed are Combat Veterans.

Response by AN Mike Weld made Aug 15 at 2017 7:00 PM

2017-08-15T19:00:59-04:00

2 years in Guantanamo bay Cuba
79- 81 in the navy standing watch with no weapon just a few hundred yards from the fence line and driving a 5000 gallon fuel truck makes a tasty target , but I never flinched or shirked my duty
The Cold War , that's the one I. was in even when President Reagan said we begin bombing in 15 minutes
But the American legion and the VFW say I'm not a veteran they can eat my skivvies

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Aug 15 at 2017 7:32 PM

2017-08-15T19:32:10-04:00

I was at the VA the one day and since I was in during the mid-to-late eighties there was no real Combat deployment while I was in. I had some younger veterans that had been combat deployed giving me some crap and a Vietnam vet stepped up and ask them do you speak Russian and when they said no he told them to thank me! One of the few times I ever felt like a veteran and I was active duty honorably discharged.

Response by Cpl Rob Petty made Aug 15 at 2017 7:37 PM

2017-08-15T19:37:09-04:00

The headline is misleading. When I was in, during the Cold War, "deployed" meant simply getting sent overseas. I deployed to Japan twice. People deploy around the world. To be clear, back then, I too thought that to be a veteran meant in a war zone. I do recognize the difference and hold those who have been down range in a higher esteem than those who haven't.

Response by SPC Jason Kekeis made Aug 15 at 2017 7:41 PM

2017-08-15T19:41:34-04:00

A lot of times I see others who have deployed simply add the identifier "combat" in front of veteran if any clarification is ever needed which, other than for the VFW, is usually not

Response by SSgt Jeffrey Andrews made Aug 15 at 2017 7:52 PM

2017-08-15T19:52:53-04:00

Any man/woman that donned the uniform of this great country and served deserves to be called a veteran. Enough people disrespect the military as it is. We don't need to separate into groups of infighting. A Desert Shield/Storm-Somalia Vet!

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Aug 15 at 2017 8:05 PM

2017-08-15T20:05:42-04:00

If you never served on active duty for more than 180 days consecutive. You will not get VA BENEFITS,the VA will turn you away.
Other than that, you are a Vet

Response by FA Kurt German made Aug 15 at 2017 8:58 PM

2017-08-15T20:58:03-04:00

Just because the ship I served on wasn't torpedoed, doesn't mean it couldn't have been. I am a proud Navy veteran.

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made Aug 15 at 2017 9:19 PM

2017-08-15T21:19:13-04:00

Shaking my head, trying to understand who comes up with this shit.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 10:09 PM

2017-08-15T22:09:04-04:00

Yes you are a Veteran. If you raised your right hand and signed the line then it doesn't matter if you Deployed to a "Combat" zone. Like PO1 Nagel said you were able to go anywhere at anytime so YES you are a veteran

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 10:32 PM

2017-08-15T22:32:16-04:00

Being a veteran is something that you earn the day you serve selflessly for your country. Do all jobs do the same thing? No.

You're a vet if you served (plenty).

You're a vet if you deployed to a non-combat environment (lots).

You're a vet if you deployed to a combat environment but never fired a round in an attempt to preserve your life or the lives of those around you (most).

You're a combat vet if you slung lead on behalf of those to your left/right (few).

Period.

Response by SFC David Hudson made Aug 15 at 2017 10:50 PM

2017-08-15T22:50:32-04:00

Many moons ago, as a young Buck Sergeant...with a combat deployment under my belt, the idea of only counting deployed military personnel as veterans might have made sense to me.

However, when Desert Storm kicked off, I was one of a very small cadre on Fort Bragg. Just 35 of us were known as Blackhats, experts on everything Airborne-and they didn't know what to do with us as the 82d began their deployment routine.

It didn't take long for the higher-ups to realize that we knew the aircrews,and we knew the airfield on Pope AFB. So, they had us marshaling aircraft, and ensuring the right equipment got to the right aircraft.

As someone whom, at the time believed "if you're not Airborne Infantry, you're not shit", I was blown away by the professionalism, efficiency, and mission first mentality of those I used to call pogues. The Army and Air Force loggies were loading and sending aircraft at an incredible pace. It seemed as if an aircraft was landing empty and being sent out for the desert every few minutes.

Seeing as how this massive deployment of equipment was destined to support my Paratrooper Brothers, I knew how vital the loggies role was in our (eventual) successful mission accomplishment.

Each and every role in our Armed Services plays their part. We can't fill the battlefield foxholes if there's not anyone to send us the shovels needed to dog our foxholes, or fox the stuff we break...and we break a lot of things!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 10:54 PM

2017-08-15T22:54:51-04:00

I joined the Army in 1983, right after Urgent Fury. In 1991, I was sent to Fort Irwin to train the national guard for Desert Storm. In 2003, my first deployment was cancelled literally on the runway. If I had chosen to retire then would I be a "veteran"? Of course I would have been. I wasn't entitled to wear a FWTS patch but I was a veteran none the less. I left out deployments around the world to support contingency operations and training with our allies but those weren't "combat".

Fast forward ten years and I was on my third deployment to SWA and my third FWTS patch with six overseas service bars, my ID card now says retired, not veteran. I get to go to the VA but do does a six week s of service, njured in basic training, medically discharged, former private...

Response by SPC M F made Aug 15 at 2017 11:00 PM

2017-08-15T23:00:22-04:00

So you support division? You are the stupidest person I have ever seen post on this site. Go away, and join a divided country.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 11:10 PM

2017-08-15T23:10:05-04:00

I've served 7 years in the ARNG, and continue to serve, and I do not consider myself a veteran.

Response by SGT Jim Ramge, MBA made Aug 15 at 2017 11:10 PM

2017-08-15T23:10:49-04:00

Let's see, soldier was in a training jump accident and medically retired, or jumped into country and sent home for same activity and never fired their rifle or fired upon. Tell me the difference please... Enough said!

Response by SGT Cynthia Barnard made Aug 15 at 2017 11:54 PM

2017-08-15T23:54:50-04:00

It doesn't matter whether you deployed or not you wrote the check saying that you would lay down your life for this country as someone that has deployed and retired from the military . I see no difference between me and my friends that didn't. my card got pulled theirs didn't I actually think it's great when someone has made a career out of their chosen branch and never got deployed I consider that person to A very lucky veteran!!!!!

Response by SSG Paul Flaven made Aug 16 at 2017 12:07 AM

2017-08-16T00:07:45-04:00

'86-'89 I was a regular Army truck driver and I was a Vet, plain and simple. Got back into active duty '92 as 11b and was deployed a few times, I'm now a combat vet. There you go.

Response by PO2 Zeek Tomczyk made Aug 16 at 2017 12:23 AM

2017-08-16T00:23:10-04:00

Combat is the determining factor for vet status?
How about sub service? Those guys were at crush depth,put through live scenario drills at all times.Or my bfothers in SAR squadrons in the Navy or Coast Guard?
How many combat soldiers were jumping into rolling seas in 40 degree water ?
Flight decks aren't vet status worthy?
Hell you say. Crab fisherman are a close second to a busy flight deck op.
My MCM community loses helos and crew at one of the highest rates in aviation.
19 brothers, of them clise friends in tge span of 5 years.
Flew aboard an MH 53E heading to Fujirah in a heavy sand storm and we almost dropped outta the sky due to lift conditionsdead air. While deployed to the middle east.
Yeah, Combat is the determinating factor.
Lastly, was in the Philippines in 88-91.
Witnessed two airforce kids killed by a hit squad in AC ,was in CalJam when two Subic stationed Marines were poisoned by a bar girl. List my skipper in an Fclp accident. Yeah, they're not vets......
Danger is not discriminate only to "combat".
Mad respect to my combat tested brothers and sisters,but what is more dangerous? That which is assumed ,or unassumed ?
Your service ,no matter how mundane, insignificant you may have thought, might have been the key component to a combat mission's survival.
Remember, the most important man in a cooks kitchen is the diswasher.
Proud of all of you.

Response by SGT Jason Murphy made Aug 16 at 2017 1:22 AM

2017-08-16T01:22:50-04:00

My honest opinion ? All gave some, some gave all ! What I think we should focus more on are those who commit stolen valor . I hate that crap with a passion.

Response by PO3 Garry Reed made Aug 16 at 2017 1:52 AM

2017-08-16T01:52:08-04:00

I respect anybody who served. I was in during that wierd time. Where we were still fighting the Cold War. With hot War zones to. Most people dont understand the Cold War wasn't cold. Every day we acted and did things that risked lives. Plus risked turning the Cold War hot. When things finally come out. Some of our most dangerous mission's took place during the Cold War. Nobody will ever get credit for those combat mission's. Even though they should. If you served you are a Veteran. End of Story.

Response by SrA Phillip Pentzer made Aug 16 at 2017 1:53 AM

2017-08-16T01:53:40-04:00

If you served on active duty ! You are a veteran ! What kind of moronic ,window licking, pole smoking , crack monster even breached this topic ? Youre mother must have beat you for you to be so stupid !

Response by SPC Craig Hill made Aug 16 at 2017 2:42 AM

2017-08-16T02:42:38-04:00

Why ask this? All you have to do is look up what makes a veteran, peoples opinions do not matter!

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Aug 16 at 2017 3:22 AM

2017-08-16T03:22:35-04:00

Everyone who served is a Veteran those that have been in the Combat theater are Combat Veterans and they have the VFW if they want to hang out with other Combat Vets only. the rest of us have the American Legion if someone wants to feel like noncombat Vets are not vets they can go to the VFW But even there the Vets will tell them you serve you are a Vet. And I have never heard any Veteran EVER say to me or another Vet that did not see combat that we were not Veterans. The Combat Vets I've run into even when in BHOST say "be glad you never saw combat" and " you are one of us, you are a Brother" So I don't know where you are hearing that scuttle butt but that's just what that is Scuttle Butt.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 6:24 AM

2017-08-16T06:24:34-04:00

Maybe we shouldn't give it to people who always managed to avoid deployments, but we ought not withhold it from those who never had the opportunity to deploy.

Response by MSG Mark Redmann made Aug 16 at 2017 7:13 AM

2017-08-16T07:13:10-04:00

All who served are veterans. Some are combat vets and some aren't. We all trained to the same standard in our given jobs to carry out or support the same mission - defending the U.S.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 7:40 AM

2017-08-16T07:40:42-04:00

No, if a Reservist with no legitimate active duty time and no deployment, you do not get to call yourself a Veteran. As a Reservist you still enjoyed the education benefits, tax free status at PXs and various other benefits, but never really answered the call. There are enough deployments out there to volunteer for if you really want to deploy, so once again, no.

Response by LCpl Darrell J. Farley Jr. made Aug 16 at 2017 7:40 AM

2017-08-16T07:40:49-04:00

Response by LtCol Mac McCarty made Aug 16 at 2017 7:47 AM

2017-08-16T07:47:09-04:00

Unless somebody has invented a crystal ball, no one who signs the line and swears the oath should be called anything but a veteran. It really ticked me off when people who had never made that "offer" tried to toss stones at President G W Bush, who with his mates flew the widowmakers the USAF had handed down to the Air Guard and Reserve. My only caveat to this: If you were never eligible for the CAR (does the Army have an equivalent? It always seemed to have too narrow a rule for the CIB, but, hey, whatever makes a service happy)--let's just say something that every service member will understand--if you haven't been "in country" or contiguous air or waters, don't be like a certain slimy waste of a Senator who walked around for years claiming to be a Vietnam veteran when he knew that people were thinking "rockets, mortars, blood....and C-rats for 60 or more straight days."

Response by SGT Samuel Chism made Aug 16 at 2017 8:11 AM

2017-08-16T08:11:23-04:00

First off your out of your mind if you don't think that NG or the Reserves don't deploy. Our of 311 million people in this country less than 2 percent serve in the military to include reserve and the Guard. Active duty can't do it all. During the cold war all those who served but never deployed still were a deterrent. They all still sacrificed time away from loved ones . Sure if you go to combat you truly see the horrors of what you have been training so hard to fight. Does it mean your better than those who never went? All it means is that you were able to be tested. If you survived with out any injuries or not dying does that make you any less than a soldier? Are you a coward because you didn't make the ultimate sacrifice? Absolutely not. Should the recruit who completes basic and their ait but than gets hurt on a airborne jump when he gets to his unit first day career ending jump not be considered a veteran? Of course he should but you should complete basic and ait

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Aug 16 at 2017 9:22 AM

2017-08-16T09:22:23-04:00

Charles; You know you're a Veteran and now I and others know.. because some clown that claims that you are not a Veteran because you didn't deploy to a combat zone is Prob'ly just butt-hurt because they didn't.. or a
Minor technicality .. So they want you to share in their sorrow.. to heck with them!
So you didn't go but you provided the support needed by/to those that did go and you're a Vet too! Those in the rear
providing the logistical support to those in
On the line are as important as those keeping the enemy at bay... without support where would they be and what would they be doing w/o that support that you and others provide? You got that right .. I went to 'Nam and served at Tan Son Nhut AB as a Cook and baker. I was part of the support team.. us, MWR(morale, welfare, entertainment), Mortuary affairs, base exchange, base laundry.. and I did a few tours as a security augmentee.. then to Thailand where I did more of the same: providing sustenance to our Airmen and anybody else; Army, Navy(Seabees), Marines, Coast Guard(LORAN), So whatever you did while in the rear with the gear is important and you're important Charles and on top of that you're a Vet and welcome to the best !

Response by SGT Joseph Mitcham made Aug 16 at 2017 10:20 AM

2017-08-16T10:20:53-04:00

If combat deployment status determined veteran status then there wouldn't be many Navy veterans in my mind if you served your a veteran weather you were a POS, POG, or an Operator some just get to ad to the title combat veteran but to be honest if we started talking and you brought up your service I'm going to talk shit to you but don't worry I won't let any civilian talk shit

Response by SFC Joseph Roy made Aug 16 at 2017 10:35 AM

2017-08-16T10:35:04-04:00

I served in active duty Air Force , Air National Guard and the Army National Guard. Retired Honorably from all 3 with 23 Years of Sevice. I was never deployed although many of my friends have. Does that make me less of a Veteran? No. Am I a Combat Veteran? No. When people ask am I a Veteran, I say yes. When they ask if I saw combat I tell them no with a brief explanation. Weather God or fate someone or something had other use for me. I am proud to have severed, was willing and able to deploy and always did my job to the best of my abilities.
Joe (Ret.) SFC

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 11:51 AM

2017-08-16T11:51:35-04:00

As long as you joined and finished your contract without being a shitbag you're a veteran

Response by Cpl Robert Haeusler made Aug 16 at 2017 12:35 PM

2017-08-16T12:35:04-04:00

As a multi tour vet I'd like to say thank you to the marines who made sure my paycheck was deposited, my medical and personnel records were kept up to date, and all of our equipment was ready to deploy. The military is a team and all who have served in any capacity earned the title.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Aug 16 at 2017 12:39 PM

2017-08-16T12:39:49-04:00

I would like to here from those men and women who made sure the ammunition, food and serial numbered equipment continued to arrive in support of said deployment while they served stateside. A deployment can't occur without a much coordinated effort back home. I am not taking away anything from those deployed. I am saying that veteran status shouldn't be specifically just for those that pulled the trigger.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 12:44 PM

2017-08-16T12:44:29-04:00

I would say your a Veteran upon completion of you basic and AIT training. I went active duty first and ended up in Afghanistan in 2011. Now I'm ARNG and deployed with them in 2015 to kuwait and then to Iraq. To be honest. I can't speak for other states. But if we want to deploy all we have to do, is fill out a volunteer packet but you will go with which ever unit is going in the state. So you can deploy with NC pretty often if you want. But most I believe get lazy and caught up in the civilian life. Before you know it they have all sorts of attachments at home. But for the Veteran status it should be upon completion of all your contracted training. Then for "Combat Veteran" status is having served for the 30 or 90 consecutive days in a combat zone. I can't remember the exact length of days though.

Response by SPC Jack Lyons made Aug 16 at 2017 1:01 PM

2017-08-16T13:01:01-04:00

I served between gulf wars for 7 years. No opportunity to deploy. I tell my kids I served but reserve the "veteran" distinction for those who stepped onto enemy soil.

Response by SCPO Laura Kennedy made Aug 16 at 2017 1:20 PM

2017-08-16T13:20:03-04:00

Having served on both sides of that coin, one could NOT successfully deploy if they did not have the support of those that did not deploy but made things happen back on shore/in country. “A Veteran is someone who, at one point in their life wrote a blank check made payable to “The United States of America,” for an amount up to and including their life.”

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 1:22 PM

2017-08-16T13:22:05-04:00

Geez. Why are we over thinking this? Honestly, if you are someone who served, but feel bad because you were not sent overseas, don't over analyze and question your status. We all serve at the pleasure of the President and people of the US. Stop feeling guilty.

Response by CPT Tom Fawls made Aug 16 at 2017 1:42 PM

2017-08-16T13:42:10-04:00

For the VA, you're a veteran if you served and were not dishonorable doscharged.

Your specific benefits one qualified for depend on the specific type and duration of duty. Appropriately, combat does move you to the head of the line, so to speak, but not being in combat does not strip you of your "veteran" status.

Response by SPC Jerry Buck made Aug 16 at 2017 2:10 PM

2017-08-16T14:10:57-04:00

Pretty sure we signed on that same line on the same contract.... done it honorably and you are a veteran of the armed forces of these United States of America..i serv ed 4 years in a cav unit with a mission in west Germany on the boarder... looked communisum straight in the eyes... got blown out on alert after alert every one as if we where gonna be fighten then vaporized or just vaporized...but since it obviously did not happen...and you should be glad too... does that make m e any less of a veteran than say soneone who got shot at...no i stood my ground and would serve again thats a veteran....

Response by SPC Jerry Buck made Aug 16 at 2017 2:16 PM

2017-08-16T14:16:28-04:00

Even tho i already responded please define deployed:

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 2:16 PM

2017-08-16T14:16:39-04:00

I served 4years active duty in USMC deployed 4 times Iran was going on but no war I never claimed to be a veteran I did another 4years active Army went to first gulf war that was when I felt Iearned the title veteran

Response by MSgt Curtis Rogers made Aug 16 at 2017 2:21 PM

2017-08-16T14:21:21-04:00

Yes. Absolutely. Your status as a Veteran has never depended on your deployment status or the nature of your service. Period. I remember when I joined in 1982 there were rumors going around that if you didn't serve in combat you weren't a veteran. Not true then and not true now. HOWEVER, certain VA programs are open to people who serve at different times and in different capacities. Happens all the time, like Post 911 GI Bill benefits. I would imagine that we will see different programs and benefits for people who have earned combat certifications from their specific branch or who have deployed.

Response by SGT Ron Mooney made Aug 16 at 2017 2:33 PM

2017-08-16T14:33:19-04:00

Veteran of any statue was willing to give his or her life for their country

Response by SSG Tim Ingle made Aug 16 at 2017 4:03 PM

2017-08-16T16:03:11-04:00

Veteran - completed Basic, completed AIT, ...now your a serving member. Once you get out..honorably or other wise you are a veteran. Combat vet = deployed time in combat (engaging or being engaged by the enemy)

Response by Sgt Josh Hardy made Aug 16 at 2017 4:35 PM

2017-08-16T16:35:43-04:00

A veteran is anyone who faithfully served their obligated time. To me, that includes ARNG, Reserves, Medical Discharge, etc.
Someone who deployed into a theater of war (i.e. Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, etc) would be a Veteran of Foreign Wars (elligible for joining the VFW).
A combat veteran would be anyone who received a CAR (Combat Action Ribbon).

Response by MAJ Kevin Miller made Aug 16 at 2017 4:43 PM

2017-08-16T16:43:33-04:00

I served 22 years in the guard. In that 22 years I had 13 years of active duty, which included 7 consecutive years of title 10 duty. I was on Desert Fix orders during Desert Shield, my duty station was in Conus. Didn't deploy. I have been to both Germany and Korea on TDY orders. I have not been in a war zone, but don't you dare tell me I'm not a veteran.

Response by SPC Randall Raile made Aug 16 at 2017 5:08 PM

2017-08-16T17:08:09-04:00

I don't think the legal definition requires deployment. I believe the legal definition is active duty for 2 or more years and does not have to be consecutive. Reservist and ng can get veteran status by being deployed making them active. That's where it was misinterpreted. If you get deployed enough times to get 2 years of active time under your belt as a reservist or ng then you receive veteran status.

Response by SPC Randall Raile made Aug 16 at 2017 5:12 PM

2017-08-16T17:12:06-04:00

Sorry I was mistaken. For reserve and ng it is a single deployment gives you veteran status. Active duty requires 2 or more years and a honorable separation.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 5:38 PM

2017-08-16T17:38:15-04:00

I've got something that is similar, but different going on. There's this numb nut at my job who thinks because he was a Cav Scout for his MOS that makes him some kind of super badass, while he rags on me for having been a public affairs sergeant. Fun fact is this guy never deployed to a combat zone, while I served with the 1st Cav division in Mosul and actually went out with various units. Hell I've even got my flipping combat spurs, meanwhile numb nut just says I wasn't Cav. What a douche.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 5:40 PM

2017-08-16T17:40:01-04:00

I say if he or she dedicated 10+ years of there life to the military no matter the branch or deployed or not is a vet and thats comming from a Afghanistan vet

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 5:46 PM

2017-08-16T17:46:32-04:00

Yes reservists and national guard are not considered veterans under federal law until they hit a certain amount of days or they deploy.

There is also the difference between combat veteran and veteran. One has to be deployed to a combat zone the other does enough time in service.

Personally if your a reservist that just does the bare minimum you shouldn't be considered a veteran because the bare minimum for a service member on active duty is still leaps and bounds above what a reservist does. So to get the legal status that is the same as someone that's been on active duty is a joke. You earn the title in boot camp to belong to a member of your service you signed on the dotted line and filled the ranks and that's honorable, but it doesn't make you a veteran.

Response by SSG Kirk Benke made Aug 16 at 2017 5:53 PM

2017-08-16T17:53:39-04:00

If you served over 180 days in any branch of the military you are a veteran 1

Response by LCpl Michael Gilbert made Aug 16 at 2017 5:56 PM

2017-08-16T17:56:20-04:00

Yeah. I mean i have a buddy that joined the Corps a few months after i did, aviation ordnance cat, got to the fleet, got put in a pilot training unit, making him 'non deployable' and was good enough at his job that his unit wouldnt sign off on any requested transfers... He still contributed to the war effort. Hes as much a veteran as I am, with 1 to OIF and 1 to OEF.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 5:57 PM

2017-08-16T17:57:13-04:00

I'm in the Army Guard and have done 6 years, just re-up'd and I believe anyone who has served and done their service to our country in any branch of the military is deemed a veteran. Just because you haven't been deployed over seas and been in combat doesn't make you any less of a veteran. A lot of military members who deploy don't even see combat. In the end we all served and would lay down our life if need be for the country we love so in my opinion, you earned veteran status.

Response by SGT Terry Kramer made Aug 16 at 2017 6:00 PM

2017-08-16T18:00:17-04:00

Once you raise your hand your a veteran of that passage. Taking the oath and doing what's asked of you is what's important. It takes at a minimum 3 supporting soldiers for every one combat arms troop. It take everyone to win the battle.

Response by SGT Greg Stricker made Aug 16 at 2017 6:02 PM

2017-08-16T18:02:29-04:00

I don't want to beat a dead horse, but for those of you who saw combat, you are COMBAT Veterans. By definition, "any, any, any:" any branch at any time for any length, even if you didn't make it through Basic, as long as you had a satisfactory discharge.

For benefits, an injury is required and usually at least 180 days, but there are exceptions and this is reflected in National Guard Service. That is the truth.
Next issue...

Response by CPL Jeffrey OConnor made Aug 16 at 2017 6:04 PM

2017-08-16T18:04:55-04:00

A vet is a vet. Otherwise, you would be granting higher status to a clerk who may have deployed, while minimizing a Ranger who happened to not fall into a combat classification exercise.

Response by SGT Bill Lusher made Aug 16 at 2017 6:36 PM

2017-08-16T18:36:09-04:00

No if you serve, you serve. My opinion is any thing other than dishonorable warrants veteran status. U volunteered! It's no ones fault you never deployed. I'm combat vet and I dont think any less of anyone that ever seen battle

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 6:41 PM

2017-08-16T18:41:02-04:00

I havent read every post on here and this may have been discussed. But this questioned brings up another. I know Soldier who have served 15 years plus did multiple tours and kicked out becuase of QMP, QSP and a host of other issues should they still be considered vets and put on the same pedalstal as people who served, never deployed and discharged under what is considered honorable. I believe all service is a sacrafice, and important to the mission, but all service is not equal and reguardless of what is said everyone did not pick their jobs and many did not have the option to get a safe mos. So yes I believe there should be a distinction.

Response by SPC Kevin Whitney made Aug 16 at 2017 7:34 PM

2017-08-16T19:34:52-04:00

You stood when it was your time to stand therefore you are

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 7:36 PM

2017-08-16T19:36:28-04:00

Long before I ever joined the service I felt that it was an important distinction to have actually deployed to a combat zone in order to receive the status of veteran. After 12 years in the Army, I STILL feel it should be reserved for those who have spent time in hostile conditions overseas. It isn't a slight on those who haven't, it's rather a distinction reserved for those who have. Everyone in the service, AND their families, sacrifice as members of the service, but deployed servicemen have gone a little further and gave up a little more and deserve to be recognized for such sacrifices.

Response by SGT Aleksey Vitebskiy made Aug 16 at 2017 8:04 PM

2017-08-16T20:04:52-04:00

I hate when people call me a veteran because I was never deployed. I don't think I deserve that title. I always correct people when they call me that: I served, but I'm not a veteran. The only time I ever have to call myself that is on paperwork, I wish they were more precise with their definitions.

Response by SSgt Michael Bailey made Aug 16 at 2017 8:16 PM

2017-08-16T20:16:12-04:00

In my 20 years in the Marines, I never deployed to a combat zone. However, I was on recruiting duty, and I swear that 3 years took 15 off my life. I think that might qualify.

Response by SP5 John Davidson made Aug 16 at 2017 8:17 PM

2017-08-16T20:17:20-04:00

Some gave all, all gave some. If you were military, then by God yes you are a Veteran. If you got deployed, you are a Veteran. If you got shot at, killed, or had to kill, you are a COMBAT VETERAN! Is this hard to understand?

Response by SSG Randall Ford made Aug 16 at 2017 8:37 PM

2017-08-16T20:37:25-04:00

Personally I can consider in sort of way that they are "veterans". However we always called National Guard as No Go'see even if they have a function. If your intentions are so strong on deployments, why did you not go R.A. all the way. Most individuals do like claiming veteran status but if they get orders for deployment they start whining saying that's for the "real army".I don't say this of all but those that go around bragging about this and that for some reason turns out to be N.God. even if they are considered a veteran. Look down at the name tape and tell me what it says. Very good, it says U.
S. Army. Actually it's an acronym meaning "Uncle Sam Ain't Released Me Yet! Deal with it. uhhrahh! This whole thing is b.s. anyway. You're in, you serve, still has a right to be called a vet.

Response by SSG Randall Ford made Aug 16 at 2017 8:39 PM

2017-08-16T20:39:41-04:00

No goes for no go'sass. Auto correct is bad about things

Response by SPC Christopher McMahon made Aug 16 at 2017 8:57 PM

2017-08-16T20:57:36-04:00

I served for 5years, most of that time in Germany. In 1991, my unit was supposed to deploy to Desert Storm, but did not. We were ready, willing, and able to go. So, because we didn't, some don't consider me a veteran? Unbelievable.

Response by SGT John C. made Aug 16 at 2017 9:11 PM

2017-08-16T21:11:11-04:00

What is a Veteran? 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."

Anyone who wishes to claim that only those deployed can claim the title of Veteran can come see me. If you put your name on the dotted line and you served and were discharged HONORABLY you are a Veteran. There are literally 10's of thousands of Veterans who never deployed anywhere and until the GWOT I was in that category. If your peers or your soldiers say that you are not a Veteran because you did not deploy they need some help and I'm not talking about the kind where you go see a Psychologist/Psychiatrist.

Response by SPC Jerry Davis made Aug 16 at 2017 9:27 PM

2017-08-16T21:27:07-04:00

I'm proud to identify myself as a peace time veteran and I have big time respect for combat veterans.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 9:33 PM

2017-08-16T21:33:32-04:00

So the only real WWII veterans are those who served overseas? Or only those who have a CIB, CAB, CMB, CAR, etc. are veterans? You served, you are a veteran.

Response by SgtMaj Anthony Goss made Aug 16 at 2017 9:46 PM

2017-08-16T21:46:24-04:00

I don't know how and why thus is or has been coming up and I don't know the legal definition nor do I care. The simply fact to me is if a person volunteered or in earlier cases was drafted and served they are a veteran

Response by PO3 Michael James made Aug 16 at 2017 9:54 PM

2017-08-16T21:54:59-04:00

You raised your Right Hand, You signed the dotted line, It was Witnessed !!! ... Just What the HELL are we ?? one of Santa's ELVES ??? I Should know; APPARENTLY ALL I did was party for four years on a "Party Barge" according to Congress and the VA...

Response by MAJ Jim Hollingsworth made Aug 16 at 2017 9:59 PM

2017-08-16T21:59:29-04:00

There but for the grace of God and the Sec Def's whims go I . . . . . If you wore that uniform with honor you are indeed a Veteran . . . . IMHO.

Response by SSG Sofie Martinez made Aug 16 at 2017 10:23 PM

2017-08-16T22:23:22-04:00

You serve knowing you could get the call at any point. You are at the mercy of the military and serve with honor no matter where you serve. I served 11 years and never served in combat. I volunteered when the COC asked for volunteers but I didn't get to go. After 9/11, I had been out for a number of years and I felt a guilt. I told this to a Vietnam Vet one day and he told me "but you served". If you signed and are serving or served with no combat deployment, you are still a veteran. I dare someone tell me I'm not a veteran.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 10:46 PM

2017-08-16T22:46:19-04:00

I proudly served in the Army Reserve for 19 years. I served twice on active duty when I got called up for desert shield/desert storm and in 2003/04/05 for operation Iraqi Freedom. I was in Saudi Arabia for ds/ds and I was in kirkuk Iraq for oif 2.
First ask yourself a question. What constitutes a veteran? The answer is one who has served AND has been granted benefits and entitlements AFTER their period of service.
So, with that being said, If you examine your dd214, and it says that you are entitled to post war benefits and entitlements, then you are a veteran. If it doesn't, then you are a serviceman or woman. Nothing more.

Response by CPL James S. made Aug 16 at 2017 10:58 PM

2017-08-16T22:58:36-04:00

This is a controversial topic among certain mentalities as this gives the impression of superiority for only the combat arms. This also makes certain civilian types think that all military members are the sociopathic killers deserving only incarceration: break glass in case of the requirement for violence. The point is that you served. There are numerous jobs in the military that serve honorably but can potentially see more violence or horrors than even deployed veterans. I do not disparage any combat veteran as they did a great service to the nation, however most people, even in the military, seem to forget the jobs like Firefighters, Cops, Nurses, EMT's, and other high stress positions. Service in the military is about brotherhood as well. Regardless of the deployment history of a person, that person still had to do the same basic sh*t we all did in basic. As noted by others: just because you weren't called doesn't mean you should be found at fault.

Response by MSgt Melanie Denise made Aug 16 at 2017 11:05 PM

2017-08-16T23:05:29-04:00

Next they'll want to say you aren't a combat vet unless you were shot at or shot someone. Good grief! In this day of technology there are so many ways to contribute down range without leaving your home unit. Let's not forget all the 12 hour days/7 days a week people pull at home station while others are deployed.

Response by SSG(P) Jarrod Taylor made Aug 16 at 2017 11:15 PM

2017-08-16T23:15:32-04:00

I served on active duty for 9 years, and I did a year in the reserves after. I hated the reserves after active duty. I was a grunt, and I did 4 tours overseas. I saw real action on two of those tours. I am a combat veteran. I'm a teacher now. Today, one of my students said she doesn't recognize her father, a former sailor, as a veteran, because "he didn't do anything." Maybe she's right, but my response was this. Maybe he never did anything, but he volunteered to do things. He signed up and agreed to do things if he needed to. He would have, if he needed to. He still put on the uniform, and he still served.

If you wore the uniform, you're a vet. Sure, some experiences are different, but we all served in some capacity, and we all agreed to go.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2017 11:18 PM

2017-08-16T23:18:17-04:00

Legally if you spent 180 days on active duty you are a veteran. For me if you served honorably but never made the 180 days I will still call you a veteran and thank you for your service because you raised your hand and took the same oath as I did. Deployments have zero to do with veterans status. Otherwise people will ask was yours a contingency or combat deployment? Not combat? Not a veteran. Or you served in a combat zone but did you engage the enemy? No? Not a veteran. I could go on but you get the point. You served. You know what you did. Hold your head high thank you for your service and carry on.

Response by SGT Jeremy Keeler made Aug 17 at 2017 12:01 AM

2017-08-17T00:01:18-04:00

If you earned your brass you are a vet

Response by SFC Richard Pineda made Aug 17 at 2017 12:45 AM

2017-08-17T00:45:35-04:00

I retired with only 2 deployments but I still believe that anyone how serves/served is a veteran. They raised their right hand and took the oath to deploy if needed, that's my definition. A fire extinguisher is still a safety device even if it isn't used.

Response by SFC Paul Veillon made Aug 17 at 2017 6:02 AM

2017-08-17T06:02:38-04:00

"A Veteran is someone who at one point in their life mase a check payable to The United States Of America for the amount of up to and including My Life" Anyone who tells you different can shut the hell up. I served 21 years from Freedom's frontier at the Tri Zonal Boarder in Germany, in Korea, Turkey, had the oprotunity to fly in an AC 130 over Bosnia and many more places around the world Every time I was called I answered and went where I was told. I am an American Veteran ......period. AIRBORNE!

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 6:56 AM

2017-08-17T06:56:20-04:00

Hey Sir,
You can have one of the many years I deployed down range. I just want that year of my life back. My father spent 28 years as a fighter pilot from 1975-2003, and never went to war. He was on staff for desert storm, Afghanistan was really small at first. I dont think his service is any less than mine. In fact I look back and wonder how it is I have a perfect attendance record for every shit conflict we have been in for the last 21 years. From Bosnia to OIR and every operstion since then. I consider myself unlucky. Trust me when the Army pulls your card, you will go. If they don't, you were still ready to go. Veterans are all who said "I will so my family and neighbors don't have to". Be proud of that.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 7:02 AM

2017-08-17T07:02:53-04:00

I am a 22 year veteran and have deployed. However, all service is service. Support troops are a critical part of our military. Marginalizing their honorable service is wrong in my opinion.

Response by MSG Ronnie Snider made Aug 17 at 2017 7:14 AM

2017-08-17T07:14:06-04:00

No, 1 day 1 week or 20 years. A vet is a vet.

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Aug 17 at 2017 7:28 AM

2017-08-17T07:28:09-04:00

Think it boils down to what kind of discharge you have from the service.......wouldn't think a person that was dishonorably discharged should have a veteran status....

Response by COL Ardis Ferguson made Aug 17 at 2017 8:31 AM

2017-08-17T08:31:56-04:00

Not clear on the intent of the question. Some Soldiers (used generically for service members) are 'deployed' to CONUS assignments, some to OCONUS assignments not engaged in current operations, but for training. Cold War Soldiers sat on DMZs and along the Iron Curtain as an armed and ready deterrent (11th ACR as an example). A deployment into the areas where the SSI (right shoulder patch) is awarded is like a lottery; my thought is honorably discharged veterans are veterans.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 9:14 AM

2017-08-17T09:14:03-04:00

All military personnel are legal veterans after 180 days of service. Veterans who have served in combat are entitled to many military and VA benefits others aren't but you should not deny veteran status to someone who didn't deploy. Some people never got the opportunity.

Response by Cpl Alan Michaud made Aug 17 at 2017 11:14 AM

2017-08-17T11:14:57-04:00

The reserves are crucial to our military's ability to fight wars thus they are all veterans. I deployed to Iraq twice but I know I do not have the same experience as an active duty aircraft mech compared to my brother who was reserve Marine infantry for the invasion of Iraq and a close air support pilot 7 years later in Afghanistan. I would say cambat arms troops had a tougher job then us but our life was not without risk. I respect all who put on the uniform and sware an oath to potentially give their lives in defense of our grand Republic. Semper Fi.

Response by SFC Ed C. made Aug 17 at 2017 12:00 PM

2017-08-17T12:00:21-04:00

No, everybody deserves that status that served at least one good tour of duty and discharged honorably.

Response by SGT Leo Mason made Aug 17 at 2017 12:21 PM

2017-08-17T12:21:48-04:00

Served under President Reagan and went anywhere the Army said go. Not my fault our enemies recognized that he wasn't joking around.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 12:45 PM

2017-08-17T12:45:00-04:00

I respect all who served. Nor do I judge, but I have just kinda accepted the VAs take on veteran status. This is mostly based on my own niavity as I spent my entire career in a highly deployed job, so it makes me pretty unaware of the struggle of others.

Response by SSG Ronald Bloodworth made Aug 17 at 2017 12:49 PM

2017-08-17T12:49:43-04:00

If one signed up and served his or her term of service honorably, then he or she is a veteran; period. They are military veterans. Being sent into combat earns them a distinction of being "combat veterans". Speaking just for me, knowing what I know today and having experienced combat first hand, I'd be satisfied with just being a plain old Army vet again...
Just my opinion...

Response by CPO Javier Hinojos made Aug 17 at 2017 1:52 PM

2017-08-17T13:52:44-04:00

Everyone plays a part. If you signed on the dotted line and were ready, willing and able to go but never got deployed I still will call you a Veteran.

Response by SPC Larry Weigel Jr. made Aug 17 at 2017 2:55 PM

2017-08-17T14:55:19-04:00

Let's take a look at things here.
1) We all signed the same blank check payable to the U.S.
2) We all went through the same training
3) We all know the risks involved by signing
4) We all wear the same uniform.
Do I really need to keep going? Could add 20+ more to the list but the message is there. You're a vet if you meet the established parameters for that title.

Response by SGT Arleen Rivera made Aug 17 at 2017 3:23 PM

2017-08-17T15:23:26-04:00

All that have served and honorably discharged are Veterans! Granted Combat Veterans have more benefits then non-combat. However just because the Government calls it peace time! Does not mean it was peaceful! I call it a great honor and privilege to have served my country.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 4:01 PM

2017-08-17T16:01:41-04:00

From a reservist stand point, I can say the title of veteran is a legal title associated with benefits. I was not awarded veteran status until my first deployment and I had already served 8 years in the USMCR before joining the USAR.

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Aug 17 at 2017 4:18 PM

2017-08-17T16:18:57-04:00

It is what is is I served and sacrificed with my military family. Desert Shield Desert Storm, Kuwait, Iraqi Freedom.

Response by Cpl Garrett House made Aug 17 at 2017 4:19 PM

2017-08-17T16:19:43-04:00

This is really discussed amongst your peer group? I think TTP'S should be discussed. But, signed the line, did your time, vet to me.

Response by Chris Lighthart made Aug 17 at 2017 4:27 PM

2017-08-17T16:27:19-04:00

That brings up a question I've had. I never served but most of my family either has or still is. The thing that annoys me most is someone like my coworker. He was medically discharged part way through basic yet has no problem telling people he served in the army and is a vet. I personally say he isn't as once the medical reason was cleared he never attempted to reenlist. Who would be right in a situation like this? Would he be considered a veteran?

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 4:36 PM

2017-08-17T16:36:31-04:00

I'm a reservist who up until recently had never been called to active duty. I was at an event once and the MC asked all the veterans to rise and be recognized. You should've seen the looks from the people who know me when I didn't stand. I had to explain that not every military reservist is a veteran. I'm sure the MC meant anyone who's served in the armed forces, but that's not what he said and I don't like misrepresenting myself or disrespecting what it means to be a veteran.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 5:20 PM

2017-08-17T17:20:19-04:00

Veterans are veterans if they successfully graduate from basic and advanced training. it's not their fault if there are no wars when they served or that they couldn't get deployed like in Desert Storm, Granada, or Panama where not everyone who wanted to go got an opportunity. You can add a category of "combat" veteran for those that served in a combat zone and were awarded a patch or ribbon representing that.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 5:27 PM

2017-08-17T17:27:46-04:00

Perhaps there should be some additional type of status for combat vets. I think there is already a distinction for disability compensation...but a vet is a vet...don't take that away.

Response by SSG Mark Lawless made Aug 17 at 2017 5:28 PM

2017-08-17T17:28:33-04:00

I spent 20 years in the U. S. Army working as a radar and launching system mechanic in the HAWK Missile System. I never served in a war zone even though I served during Vietnam and I was in Germany during Desert Shield/Desert Storm. I know it takes more than boots on the ground to conduct combat operations. It takes personnel working in the background supplying food, ammo, replacement parts for trucks, tank, etc. But I still have never considered myself a veteran even though I am told otherwise. I never served in combat and for that I feel like I was slighted.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Aug 17 at 2017 5:44 PM

2017-08-17T17:44:05-04:00

There are two types of veterans. The veteran who has served without combat experience and of course, the combat veteran, who has endured the most horrific conditions humanity can inflict upon humanity. Wounded, physically and tormented psychologically the combat veteran qualifies more readily for trauma incurred in combat, vs, noncombatant. All who have served are due the honor and respect due them after all, we are and always will be brothers at arms.

Response by SPC Joe Braun made Aug 17 at 2017 5:55 PM

2017-08-17T17:55:01-04:00

Sure they are...I've know a few guard/reserve and even active guys have the same situation....but how about the ones that join a component with a job less likely to deploy just for the school bennies on a one and done contract....then throw around they are in the military and once out claim the veteran status that they shouldn't get to own....to me that's just as bad as the welfare abusers and it's a spit in most veterans faces....just my opinion though

Response by Cpl Joshua Cummins made Aug 17 at 2017 6:36 PM

2017-08-17T18:36:15-04:00

If you serve, and serve honorably, then yes, you are a veteran.

Response by SGT Bob Teagle made Aug 17 at 2017 7:23 PM

2017-08-17T19:23:54-04:00

Pretty simple. Anyone who has served is a military Veteran. Those that were in combat are combat Veterans.

Response by SSG Julius Williams II, EdD made Aug 17 at 2017 7:36 PM

2017-08-17T19:36:24-04:00

"Throughout our history, the Reserve and National Guard components of the U.S. military have made essential contributions to the nation’s defense. The Reserve and Guard make up roughly 38 percent of total U.S. uniformed manpower, and their organizations provide critical combat power and support. Though traditionally supporting combat operations in a strategic reserve capacity, more recently, they have supported undersized Active component forces in long-term engagements such as those in Iraq and Afghanistan."
Dunn III, R.J. (2016). America's reserve and national guard components: Key contributions
to u.s. military strength. Retrieved from https://s3.amazonaws.com/ims-2016/PDF/2016_Index_of_US_Military_Strength_ESSAYS_DUNN.pdf

2016_Index_of_US_Military_Strength_ESSAYS_DUNN.pdf

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Response by 2LT Gary Will made Aug 17 at 2017 8:32 PM

2017-08-17T20:32:56-04:00

I served in the ARNG, volunteered for deployment several times and was not sent. I never served over the 180 days but I do have an honorable discharge. I get no benefits at all, no flag when I die, no headstone, etc. The 180 day rule is not realistic. I know of people who were kept on active duty over 180 days because they were liked by their commander then were medically discharged having never qualified in a MOS. They get all the death benefits and can claim veterans points for government jobs as well as home loans. I think the definition of who is a veteran is someone who has served in the armed forces of the US honorable. That would cover those in the service and those who have left under honorable conditions. They you are either a veteran or a combat veteran.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 8:42 PM

2017-08-17T20:42:13-04:00

All who served are veterans. An overseas deployment only means the service member was away for a period of time. Engaging in combat is far from being Within or near the theater of operations. Most combat stories come from those who have never experienced it and are the same ones protecting a status they never earned.

Response by SSgt Geoff Hartnell made Aug 17 at 2017 9:32 PM

2017-08-17T21:32:17-04:00

If you change the definition to "only those who deployed" where does it end? If you never left the base on your deployment does that count? What if you were only deployed to Kuwait or Qatar (both considered combat zones when I was in)? You are a veteran of the armed forces. Deployments shouldn't matter in this case.

Response by SSG Paul Newman made Aug 17 at 2017 9:39 PM

2017-08-17T21:39:55-04:00

I understand the mindset of only identifying veterans who have served in combat as " veterans." Throughout the course of our nation's history there have (fortunately) been periods when our nation was not at war. Are we to disenfranchise those who served during those periods? Men and women have volunteered to serve in the defense of democracy and our nation, training to be prepared in the event of the outbreak of war. Serving in peacekeeping missions in hotspots where wars have been suppressed or fear to breakout, guarding against totalitarian empires who would aspire to rule the world, and supplying humanitarian aid to people and countries who have no means to provide for themselves. They too, were sent to foreign countries for extended periods without their families. Some died in the defense of freedom, when their aircraft fell or ships sank without combat action. Was their sacrifice any less? Do their families greive any less?
Was it lass significant when they missed births, deaths, graduations and other milestones away from their loves ones? What of cold warriors who died over the long truce without peace on the Korean peninsula to hostile action when there was no "war on." Many kept the world safe through 50+ years of " Cold War" Shall we disregard the deaths of embassy security staff murdered in terrorist bombings. Are those who volunteered and served on the 38th parallel or the Berlin Wall, less veterans than those draft dodgers who were hunted down by law enforcement and forced to serve, being escorted by MP's to their departure point and doing everything they could in theater to resist doing their duty-- shall we honor them with the title veteran while disrespecting an active duty soldier who served honorably with multiple peacetime overseas tours simply because our nation was not at war at the time? What message do we send to future soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines if we only honor those deployed to war? How are we prepared to defend ourselves if no one signs up until the shooting starts when they see that no one respects the soldier when there is no war? We saw this in the 70's and 80's when service members were treated with disdain and avoided wearing the uniform off duty and amongst civillians. When parents told there young adult children not to date or associate with soldiers. When members if congress referred to the military as a "Job Corps with nuclear weapons," please, let's not return to this culture.

Response by MAJ Heather May made Aug 17 at 2017 10:40 PM

2017-08-17T22:40:56-04:00

How about a Soldier who was on active duty for over 19 years before applying for the early retirement program and despite volunteering numerous times was never deployed anywhere but a training center?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2017 10:54 PM

2017-08-17T22:54:25-04:00

I'm not sure how you say NG and USAR don't deploy. I've been in for 12 years and had 4 opportunities to deploy. To answer your question, I don't call anyone who hasn't deployed to a combat zone a veteran. What would they be a veteran of exactly? Thanks for serving, you did more than 99% of people, but no you are 100% not a veteran.

Response by SFC Kevin Stampfly made Aug 17 at 2017 11:00 PM

2017-08-17T23:00:57-04:00

Under federal law, a veteran is considered any person who has served honorably in the Armed Forces. Going by this definition, as long as you fulfilled your obligations and was not dishonorably discharged, than you should be considered a veteran, regardless if you deployed or not.

Response by SPC David Tripp made Aug 17 at 2017 11:21 PM

2017-08-17T23:21:48-04:00

Garbage.

Response by Cpl Joe Preston made Aug 17 at 2017 11:37 PM

2017-08-17T23:37:49-04:00

I ran into this once. A young kid that did one tour, got hurt and sent home. He had a chip on his shoulder. I set him straight in a clear conscience military fashion

Response by SPC Cynthia Silvis made Aug 17 at 2017 11:47 PM

2017-08-17T23:47:04-04:00

As long as you serve and receive honorable discharge you are a Veteran, if you deploy to a combat/war zone you become a war veteran. Anyone that tells you otherwise is full of it.

Response by CPL David Thompson made Aug 17 at 2017 11:51 PM

2017-08-17T23:51:44-04:00

Veteran us veteran. Just because someone never deployed to a war zone doesn't tarnish their service to our country. We all signed up knowing that we may have just given our life.

Response by Sgt Michael Hand made Aug 17 at 2017 11:52 PM

2017-08-17T23:52:56-04:00

Yes! They stepped up and forward...committing all and willing to give all...to service to the nation. I am a combat veteran Marine and honor all who raised their hand and honorably served.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 12:26 AM

2017-08-18T00:26:48-04:00

I think the term "Combat Veteran" is over-used and extremely hard to define. I wish the Army had never started with the CIB and CAB. I know of people who wear them who didn't see any more combat than I did in Iraq (I don't wear one). There are thousands of stories we have all heard of people doing stupid things, and risking lives (especially other people's lives) to get some silly ass badge. People who took the "oath" and served honorably, wherever. It was.. are Veterans, IMHO. Getting VA benefits is another matter. I have never registered with the VA, even though I served 29 years and deployed overseas twice as a Guard Soldier. i don't need the VA but some folks do. I consider myself and my buddies, Veterans. Period.

Response by SSG Robert Cosper made Aug 18 at 2017 1:32 AM

2017-08-18T01:32:57-04:00

If you serve your term of service, you are a veteran. End of conversation.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 1:44 AM

2017-08-18T01:44:19-04:00

Every DOD contractor I have ever worked for had me fill out my Veteran status. Never once did I find a box I could check that said I was a Veteran worth recognizing. The only boxes I had to choose from were Korean War, Vietnam War, several peace keeping actions, Gulf war I, Gulf war II, etc. Part of the reason I've never tried to get VA medical.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 7:53 AM

2017-08-18T07:53:00-04:00

I'm tired of groups separating themselves into small groups. As far as I'm concerned if you took the oath, and have an honorable discharge you are a veteran. We all could've been deployed at any moment.

Response by SSG Shaun Long made Aug 18 at 2017 8:00 AM

2017-08-18T08:00:14-04:00

I'm a combat veteran with numerous deployments as an infantryman. If you served honorably, you're a veteran. My wife is considering service, and my recommendation to her is this- don't join to deploy. Join to be useful, to the military and yourself afterwards. Do that honorably, and nobody may degrade your service.

Response by SGT Kenneth Green made Aug 18 at 2017 8:35 AM

2017-08-18T08:35:06-04:00

Veteran means just that. You are not a rookie. If there was no war would a former soldier be called a veteran if he served over 4 years in, say from 1978-1982? You dang gone right he is! War nor combat makes you a veteran. Proud Army Veteran 1982-1996.

Response by SSG Alvin Amezquita made Aug 18 at 2017 9:09 AM

2017-08-18T09:09:56-04:00

It's funny that you ask this question. Currently anyone who serves in the national guard not unless deployed for more tha 180 days of active duty once they leave the NG they are not considered a veteran. They are proposing to change that not unless it has already changed. I was informed of this about five months ago if I remember correctly. I think thats a bunch of horse shit, if you put on the uniform and then decided to go back being a full time civilian ur a veteran. U earned that right cause u served and suffered for this country and nobody can take that away from you. Hope all u are well.

Response by SFC IshSr Perez made Aug 18 at 2017 9:16 AM

2017-08-18T09:16:35-04:00

Those who elevate them self, I experienced this first hand from a sailor, I retired army, he tried this bull with me and I asked him that according to Veterans Administration I was a veteran just like him, but without the PTSD that unfortunately he was suffering. We can't label are selves combat veterans, ptsd veterans, etc. So get off that trip and get help!

Response by MSG David Jackson made Aug 18 at 2017 10:07 AM

2017-08-18T10:07:49-04:00

As a Guardsman or Reservist, There are some that spend more time than an active duty Soldier being they lead two lives. Veteran status should be given to any one who served Thier time Honorably. Where it is Reserve status or active.

Response by SGT Matthew Mark made Aug 18 at 2017 10:11 AM

2017-08-18T10:11:02-04:00

Is this seriously an issue? Did someone here not get enough hugs, bunnies or hot cocoa as a kid? Anyone asking this question has some self esteem issues in my opinion and I'll be nice and leave it at that. Get over it. At one point in time, people were trained by those who never deployed. They were probably trained and learned what they needed to deploy from a long list of various people in different places, who themselves may have never deployed. That doesn't make anyone (veteran) any different. The simple fact is this. It takes all types to make our military what it is. It takes clerks, it takes mechanics, it takes medics, nurses, and doctors. Don't forget about Drill instructors, range NCO's, supply and logistics, et.c, etc., etc. Every single person has a specific job and contributes to the success of our armed services. Every damn one of them is a veteran. Veteran/Combat Veteran. The guy in intelligence over here, feeding you intel is not a combat veteran, but is he any less important? Numerous guys deployed but never fired their weapon, does that count as combat veteran? Are you special because you deployed? Look on your chest at that campaign ribbon and there is your answer. But, to denounce someone who wasn't in the right spot at the right time to earn that same ribbon is BS. This is like the banter of Army vs. Marines vs. Navy vs. Air Force. Even Coasties. Each branch has a job, each supports each other and together are the Armed Forces of the United States, and veterans. Geez.

Response by SrA James Cannon made Aug 18 at 2017 10:22 AM

2017-08-18T10:22:46-04:00

No, all who serve are veterans. Those who deploy are considered combat veterans. There is a distinction, and some more perks to being a combat veteran.

Response by SSG NicHOLAS Barton made Aug 18 at 2017 10:30 AM

2017-08-18T10:30:04-04:00

When I hear some elitist bullshit like this it smacks of trying to make yourself out to be something and seperate yourself from an already small group of people who have served honorably whether in combat or in support groups. Anyone who says differently needs to look at themselves and see if the only thing that defines them is there deployment then perhaps they need to try harder.

Response by LCpl Justin Alexandrea made Aug 18 at 2017 11:46 AM

2017-08-18T11:46:35-04:00

You are a "veteran" by way of your military service.
Even if you deploy to a combat zone or theater, but your unit does not actively engage a target in a combat situation, then no, I do not agree that you can claim "combat" veteran status.
#CombatMarine

Response by John Tarantino made Aug 18 at 2017 12:03 PM

2017-08-18T12:03:33-04:00

Where do us contractors fall in all this. No I was not in the military as I was not ready when I was younger. But I did 4 tours in the sandbox and was blown up twice and injured and self evacuated hone for surgery and 9 months of rehab. I returned when I healed. I feel we are a lost group. I spilled blood over there but I can't join a VFW. Just wondering what you guys think?

Response by PO2 Weaver Brian made Aug 18 at 2017 12:17 PM

2017-08-18T12:17:43-04:00

It's hard to believe we are having this ridiculous discussion yet again. I thought it had already been done to death before, but this subject seems to live on and on and on in some peoples minds. If you served honorably, you are a veteran. No ifs ands or buts, you are. My DD-214 looks exactly like everyone elses, the only differences being what is listed in the awards section, and the deployments. Mine lists more than most people who were in during my time frame, but that's just the luck of the draw. I really would like to know what the mentality is, the thought processes, that lead certain people to keep trying to claim that some veterans aren't "real" veterans, or that some are so much better than others. It is beyond time to put this whole issue to rest once and for all.
By the way, as soon as I finished writing the above, I had to put another sock on my VA issued prosthetic leg, a little souvenir from west-pac cruise '78-'79. I had a boss that did his 2 years in the Army in Wash. DC, while Viet Nam was still going on pretty hot. He is no less of a veteran than I am. I've been-there-done-that, and some jackass wants to play some kind of one up games, bring it on.

Response by SSG Wes Sloat made Aug 18 at 2017 12:22 PM

2017-08-18T12:22:27-04:00

Anyone who has served regardless of deployments is a veteran. Just because they may not have deployed doesn't mean that they weren't willing to or prepared to. And I have to peace time deployments and 2 combat tours and feel no different about my brother and sisters that haven't deployed. This is a ridiculous question and it's atrocious that anyone would even consider stripping this hard earned title from these brace men and women.

Response by SSgt Mark Cofer made Aug 18 at 2017 12:59 PM

2017-08-18T12:59:45-04:00

My thought is that there are a lot of folks who rode out the Cold War in a missile silo in North Dakota. It would be ridiculous to not think of them as Vets simply because they never deployed. Not all job require a person to be downrange. Doesn't make them any less a component of the mission.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 1:00 PM

2017-08-18T13:00:49-04:00

Plenty of turds have have deployed and plenty of certified bad asses have not. Luck of the draw unfortunately.

Response by SFC Eric Bohl made Aug 18 at 2017 1:20 PM

2017-08-18T13:20:57-04:00

To me having served honorably is the key. If you get put out for misconduct or conduct unbecoming or whatever, veteran status should be stripped from you.

Response by SPC Stephen O'Connell made Aug 18 at 2017 1:36 PM

2017-08-18T13:36:13-04:00

You are a Veteran if you have, "signed the dotted line," completed all required training, maintained a ready posture, and fulfilled your time in service. You are/were a tool to be used during a time of war. If there was no war, not your problem.

Response by SPC Jessie Ferruolo made Aug 18 at 2017 1:37 PM

2017-08-18T13:37:55-04:00

When I was in Airborne School, right after AIT in 2009, I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Though I turned down a medical separation, I was nondeployable for 5 years while I underwent regular follow ups. I served for 7 more years, reclassing from 88m to 68w and never got a chance to deploy.
Ive delt with alot of guilt, Ive felt like I didnt fulfill my obligations and Ive felt tons of guilt because of the men who went in my place and never came back.

I made many personal sacrafices during my time in the military and I dont need anyone else's validation to be proud of my accomplishements and to proudly say that I am veteran.

Response by SrA Joseph Wolosz made Aug 18 at 2017 1:41 PM

2017-08-18T13:41:43-04:00

I will say NO!
What if you are in some Combat Support role or served in many bases that were not in a combat theater of operations.

Response by PO1 David Kane made Aug 18 at 2017 1:42 PM

2017-08-18T13:42:13-04:00

No, you are veteran in my opinion, but even my VA standards it take a deployment to a combat zone (with ribbon) to receive benefits. Does that help answer your question?

Response by SPC Ronny D. Staples made Aug 18 at 2017 2:09 PM

2017-08-18T14:09:27-04:00

This is a touchy and confusing topic for me, which still leaves me perplexed. When Desert Storm broke, I was on leave, transitioning from Germany to FT Lewis. WA. During that time the war started, two weeks later I arrived at my new duty assignment in WA, and found that my unit had already left for IRAQ, two weeks prior. Just six months ago my unit in Germany was in a middle of a withdraw from Germany, Per President Bush Senior. While this went on, escalation between Iraq and Kuwait was gearing up. I can’t count how many times I was told to have a go bag at the ready, because they were sending people out. During those 0300 formations, my name was never called. I saw a lot guys that I spent years with leave for IRAQ, for most, it was the last time I saw them.

When my unit returned, the city of Seattle hosted a parade, it was huge, all of FT Lewis. Except me, I refused to participate, I did what I could to get out of it. Why? I felt like I didn't deserve to be marching among others who were deployed. Plus, the fact that they were assigning temporary "chocolate chip desert" BDU's, just for the parade. (To be returned afterwards).

Fast forward 25 years
I quickly found out that the term "Veteran" has multiple meanings
I thought I could join the VFW, found out that I couldn’t since I was never deployed.
We have;
Veterans,
Protected Veterans
Non-Wartime, Deployed, Combat Veterans, (Panama)
Wartime, Non-Combat, Deployed Veterans (Most fall in this slot)
Wartime, Combat, Deployed Veterans (Never fired)
Wartime Non-Combat, Non-Deployed Veterans
As far I can figure, my status is Protected, Wartime, Non-Combat, Non-Deployed
(You don’t see a lot of shirts of ball caps depicting the above)
To add insult to injury, I found out that I am not eligible to wear the Desert Storm Campaign Ribbon (Never deployed) so no t-shirts or ball caps that have this on it. Am I still a Desert Storm Veteran? I do have the NSDM. According to my town, in order to receive the $1,000.00 property tax credit, I had to been deployed. My neighbor down street was, but non-combat.

To wrap this up; I firmly believe that Purple Heart and Combat Veterans should get more benefits, they deserve that. But I believe the distinction between non deployed and deployed should be changed. If you served during wartime, the only distinction should be your combat patch.
I like to add that my SFC wore a NSDM w/bronze star, one for Vietnam and the other for Desert Storm, both which he was never deployed to, no combat patch. I Wonder what he benefits gets?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 2:25 PM

2017-08-18T14:25:11-04:00

Don't feel too bad. I've spent six years on active duty, and the only "deployments" I've been on have been either being stationed in Japan or a multilateral exercise in a foreign country. It's pretty frustrating being a Marine who hasn't been on a combat deployment, despite being in deployable units my entire career up until I recently began embassy duty. For us, it's hard to find a sense of purpose when you aren't afforded an opportunity to do what you've ultimately been training for when there's been a war going on your whole career, and so I don't consider myself a true veteran until I've been sent to fight the good fight with my fellow Marines.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 4:59 PM

2017-08-18T16:59:05-04:00

No.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 5:16 PM

2017-08-18T17:16:37-04:00

If you graduated boot camp your a veteran

Response by Sgt Lee Lo made Aug 18 at 2017 5:19 PM

2017-08-18T17:19:53-04:00

Every service member has made a connection to support those in service within combat zones whether it be direct, or indirect. Providing provisions, supplies, intel, or support. Even the janitorial jobs. If the facilites werent clean to a certain extent, operations of that facility could have ultimately ceased for hygenic health reasons, rendering vulnerability for support. Bottom line, if you served, you have made some sorr of contribution no matter how tiny

Response by SN Diana Holton made Aug 18 at 2017 6:30 PM

2017-08-18T18:30:00-04:00

It takes 11 non combat to support one foot soldier. FYI and that is not spec ops. Supply, air, fleet. It is a team. Though I understand even being in hazardous pay zone is different than not. Not everyone is the quarterback but quarterbacks never would win a game without the line, to think they would is arrogant and could get them killed.

Response by SGT Robert Jacobs made Aug 18 at 2017 6:56 PM

2017-08-18T18:56:00-04:00

I served in the active Army during the Gulf War. I always add that I didn't go. I joined the ARNG in 2005 and deployed to Iraq in 2009. Even though I was in the infantry I never fired my weapon and was never fired on directly (mortars, a few badly aimed shots, many found IEDs). I always feel like it is important to make that clear. I have brothers that endured weeks of nearly constant fire fights, one that was killed by a sniper, one that drank himself to death after being unable to cope with multiple combat deployments. But legally speaking...our society shouldn't bother with these distinctions. We all wrote check for up to and including our lives and we meant it. You put on the uniform you are my brother or sister.

Response by SSG Alexander Allen made Aug 18 at 2017 6:57 PM

2017-08-18T18:57:57-04:00

If you gave up X amount of years to your branch, regardless of what you did you are considered a veteran in my book. There are things that setup combat veterans from non combat veterans, such as CIB, CAB...etc. if you feel so strongly about making sure everyone knows that YOU have seen combat, make sure you put your badges on....I guess

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 7:45 PM

2017-08-18T19:45:07-04:00

RIDICULOUS THINKING!! YOU WEAR THE UNIFORM IS ALL U NEED TO BE VETERAN!!

Response by Cpl Josh Bernard made Aug 18 at 2017 8:35 PM

2017-08-18T20:35:10-04:00

That's already the case. For those that served in peace time and did not deploy there is no veteran's preference for employment. The veterans groups do not even want you.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 11:10 PM

2017-08-18T23:10:01-04:00

I did 5 years with the 82nd, and my body says I'm a veteran

Response by LCpl Jay Thann made Aug 18 at 2017 11:30 PM

2017-08-18T23:30:13-04:00

A Veteran is a person whom has given their time away and have taken the time out from society, family, and career progresion to make ready when the time is there to support the combat or be the leading elments on the filling field. No matter if you have or not served in combat, because you are that blank bank check with no limit and is willing to sacrafice because the first step you did is U.S.M.C (U Singned that Mother fucking Contract). That is a veteran. I have served 18 years, 4 of those is usmc 0311 active duty, 1 year army mp, the rest is redervest time.

Response by PFC Sandra Wade made Aug 19 at 2017 12:05 AM

2017-08-19T00:05:55-04:00

We all perform a critical element to make it work we all have a mission together beat support for a unit on the battlefield or an individual but make sure you have enough food or rations support in the air at sea or on the ground we all had combat training we knew that we could be called to use it someday we're all critical to the mission

Response by SSG Larry Halminiak made Aug 19 at 2017 5:51 AM

2017-08-19T05:51:44-04:00

I served for 12 years. Just before Desert Storm I was received orders for Recruiter status. I can get a VA loan and my tanker ' s knees and back taken care of. I proudly call myself a vet, I make sure I say I did not see combat.

Response by SPC Ryan Allard made Aug 19 at 2017 8:04 AM

2017-08-19T08:04:02-04:00

I wouldn't, knowing, if i were active duty i would have only served 5 months! This goes back to YOUR perspective on things. Who gives what anybody says you know what you did for your country and thats all that matters.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2017 9:26 AM

2017-08-19T09:26:42-04:00

I have over 19 years in as a Reservist, have never deployed and I don't consider myself a veteran. My friends who have deployed say I am, I just don't feel it.

Response by COL Bob Ulin made Aug 19 at 2017 9:37 AM

2017-08-19T09:37:45-04:00

Yes, of course. Many of you don't remember the Cold War where many never deployed but performed vital functions in support of those who did deploy. Also remember many who died or were injured while in training. Would you deny them veteran status just because they didn't have the opportunity to deploy?

Response by SGT Gale Jugovich made Aug 19 at 2017 9:37 AM

2017-08-19T09:37:49-04:00

there is a peace time veteran, and
a Combat Veteran.

Response by LCpl Marley Blaisdell made Aug 19 at 2017 9:49 AM

2017-08-19T09:49:15-04:00

With out the rear echelon, the combat vets would have had no pay, no ammo, no food, and the list goes on. All jobs serve a purpose in the big picture. If you served with honor, in whatever capacity, you are a vet. Period.

Response by PO3 Roger Gingras made Aug 19 at 2017 9:56 AM

2017-08-19T09:56:40-04:00

I sined the same blank check as everyone else and Uncle Sam chose to not cash it. NOT my fault.
If someone wants to call me a non vet shame on you and your bigoted ideals.
I signed, I served, I was given an honorable discharge.
GMG3 Roger Gingras USN

Response by SPC Linda Troutman made Aug 19 at 2017 11:10 AM

2017-08-19T11:10:43-04:00

From Day 1 of my service time I was told you are a Veteran once you complete 6 months of service (the time it takes to complete basic training and AIR, as some training is longer than others) and start your 1st duty assignment. I am a Army Veteran with 5 1/2 years of service, I served in the mid 80s before the world went crazy with multiple duty assignments including CONUS,Korea and Germany.

Response by PO2 Nasser Montes made Aug 19 at 2017 11:11 AM

2017-08-19T11:11:07-04:00

You sign on the dotted line, you raised your hand and you served honorably, then you are a Veteran. Period.

Response by SPC Kyle Williams made Aug 19 at 2017 12:29 PM

2017-08-19T12:29:37-04:00

If you served you are a veteran period. Only people who can't and shouldn't claim to be a veteran are those who washed out in basic and AIT. Regardless of deployment, you are a veteran.

Response by SPC Kyle Williams made Aug 19 at 2017 12:32 PM

2017-08-19T12:32:16-04:00

I have had a few say I'm not a real veteran cuz my discharge was general under honorable conditions. But that's just ignorance. My discharge is good paper and in good standing with the military. Fuck the haters

Response by SFC Mark Petrulo made Aug 19 at 2017 12:53 PM

2017-08-19T12:53:46-04:00

Nothing short of an Honorable Discharge. I know a family that had 3 boys enter the Service, 2 Army and 1AF. All 3 of them "chaptered out" under less than Honorable circumstances. On Veterans Day you'd think the 3 boys were Patton, Audie Murphy and Chuck Yeager, by their Facebook posts and shit talk. SMH

Response by SSgt Jim Coleman made Aug 19 at 2017 1:18 PM

2017-08-19T13:18:24-04:00

There are many who served in war time who didn't deploy. How do you think those who deployed received the supplies they needed? Who do you think kept the families of those deployed with the things they needed? Who do you think keeps things running at the Post or Base your assigned to?
Weather you were deployed or were supporting those who were deployed, you served. You don't let ANYONE try to take the title Veteran away from you.

Response by SP5 Paul Riley made Aug 19 at 2017 1:49 PM

2017-08-19T13:49:55-04:00

Being a combat soldier is great but there wouldn't be any combat missions if there wasn't support personal either, I have been retired from the Army for a while and I can't remember if it takes 3 soldiers or 10 soldiers to support 1combat soldier but my point is there wouldn't be any successful combat mission if there wasn't any hard working support soldiers backing them up. I was a driver trained as a machine gunner who wound up working as a logistician in the rear. Do I consider myself a veteran? yes I do. When u sign up as a soldier there is no guarantee that your going to be in a combat situation, some soldiers have never served in a combat situation and retired. Were all veterans and should be treated as so.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2017 2:27 PM

2017-08-19T14:27:04-04:00

I have deployed and there is a difference. I support both being called veterans. I Dr prefer being called a combat veterNt though.

Response by SP5 Norman McGill made Aug 19 at 2017 4:14 PM

2017-08-19T16:14:13-04:00

When you sign up for any service it includes perks that are offered you whether you get shot at or not. As I've read many times you sign up and sign with your life when you join and if you come back that's good and if you never have to go that's even better. In any case if you went in ,you come out as a vet. I also might add that when you get out nobody ever says that your not a soldier any more. You are always a soldier and always sworn to uphold the Constitution and defend your country. That enlistment ends only when they put you in the ground. At least that's the way I feel about it.

Response by PO2 Brett Holt made Aug 19 at 2017 4:25 PM

2017-08-19T16:25:22-04:00

Nope, if you took the oath, wore the uniform or are still wearing the uniform you are a veteran. You followed orders. Some of us had orders to deploy while others did not at the convenience of the government not our choice.
Active duty USN 83-94

Response by PO2 Jason Armstrong made Aug 19 at 2017 5:10 PM

2017-08-19T17:10:24-04:00

17 years old and I gave my life over to Uncle Sam. He got to decide what I did after that every day for dive years. The old maxim holds that anything you want to do you don't get to, and anything you don't want to do, you have to. If you served.... you're a veteran period. Those in combat did do more. They may or may not have had some say in it.

Response by COL Tom Ritz made Aug 19 at 2017 5:15 PM

2017-08-19T17:15:51-04:00

All those who served honorably are vets. Active, Reserve or National Guard. You did something only 12 percent of our population was willing to do. I know a good number of career soldiers who tried to deploy and were denied. That does not make their service any less.

Response by TSgt Noel Barrett made Aug 19 at 2017 5:29 PM

2017-08-19T17:29:38-04:00

Nope, a veteran who served honorably is a veteran with all the rights that represents. Period. No argument. To claim otherwise is self serving. I spent a total of 17 years deployed overseas from Vietnam era until post Desert Storm and that doesn't make me any more a veteran than someone who served honorably for 4 or 6 years stateside.

Response by SP5 William Camacho made Aug 19 at 2017 5:42 PM

2017-08-19T17:42:42-04:00

You signed that dotted line and put your life on the line. Yes, you are considered a veteran in my book. This should not even be considered questionable. God bless our veterans at home and abroad.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2017 6:19 PM

2017-08-19T18:19:51-04:00

Served for 6 years, never got shot at, don't consider myself a vet

Response by SFC Tom Caldwell made Aug 19 at 2017 6:38 PM

2017-08-19T18:38:31-04:00

Anyone who signed on the dotted line and made it out of boot or didn't get a dishonorable discharge is a vet. Don't let anyone tell you different.

Response by SSG James Schmerber made Aug 19 at 2017 8:03 PM

2017-08-19T20:03:20-04:00

You are a veteran in my book however that does not give you the right to tell a combat veteran how you would have done it if you where there love ya man

Response by SSG James Schmerber made Aug 19 at 2017 8:06 PM

2017-08-19T20:06:33-04:00

Also don't get mad at the VFW if you can't join they aren't saying your not a veteran but your not a veteran of a foreign war

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2017 8:29 PM

2017-08-19T20:29:39-04:00

I believe anyone who finishes their contract with an honorable discharge should have veteran status. Especially if you put your 20 years in. I'm in the guard. I'm on my second contract and haven't been deployed. I'm going to to put my 20 in.

Response by SFC William Dinwiddie made Aug 19 at 2017 8:32 PM

2017-08-19T20:32:19-04:00

Since I served on active duty short ten years that makes me a veteran and it was all peacetime service. I also completed enough reserve time to retire from the reserves. I am a veteran. The active and reservists that deploy to combat zones are combat vets. Simple enough to me the reservists that do not deploy are veterans but don't get the bennies just vets in name only.

Response by Cpl Hughston Dale made Aug 19 at 2017 9:37 PM

2017-08-19T21:37:53-04:00

No!

Response by Cpl Shawn Waterman made Aug 19 at 2017 9:57 PM

2017-08-19T21:57:59-04:00

I would like to add that when in the military you can choose to put your self in a specific mos, with that being said I do believe that not all vets put there life on the line. I'm sure there are a few stories that disprove my point but they are far and few. So being a "vet" does not mean puting your life on the line , I believe it just means military.... there are lines drawn in the military for those directly in harms way and those who are not . I'm not detracting from the word vet I just hear a lot of discussion about "no action " seeing military considered non vet , make no mistake they are , but for those of us who have been in combat I do understand some frustration , becasue the word vet is easily translated in the civilian mind as combat action ... no ones fault just how it is ....

Response by PO1 George Bouchard made Aug 19 at 2017 10:11 PM

2017-08-19T22:11:00-04:00

NO, a veteran is any person who served period! I think if they were willing to put it all on the line for this nation, spent at least 120 day active duty and was Honorable Discharged deserves the title of Veteran.

Response by PO1 Tom Walker made Aug 19 at 2017 10:11 PM

2017-08-19T22:11:54-04:00

How about a Coast Guardee getting on his motorcycle drunk and now screaming disabled vet?

Response by PO3 Claude Mills made Aug 19 at 2017 11:55 PM

2017-08-19T23:55:32-04:00

Just posing this question makes you a Sick in my book.

Response by SSgt Clay Hamann made Aug 20 at 2017 12:04 AM

2017-08-20T00:04:23-04:00

Military service was a rare privilege and this question is an insult to those that have given a portion of their life for their country. I collected $272 per month, where current military members are paid more than the average American.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2017 12:32 AM

2017-08-20T00:32:31-04:00

This website is rapidly losing credibility to me.

Response by Cpl Benjamin Long made Aug 20 at 2017 1:32 AM

2017-08-20T01:32:13-04:00

No, you have veteran and combat veteran.... Easy enough to decide on that...

Response by SPC Dave Sweeney made Aug 20 at 2017 7:28 AM

2017-08-20T07:28:21-04:00

A VET is any person who did their time and did their job. Being deployed is part of the job. So in my opinion if you served you are a vet

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2017 7:47 AM

2017-08-20T07:47:28-04:00

Veteran status is based on having served Federal active duty time. Initial Entry Training and any active duty performed on Title 32 orders, such as annual training and ADOS, does not count towards veteran status.
This is why not all veterans with membership in the American Legion are eligible to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2017 8:45 AM

2017-08-20T08:45:32-04:00

A veteran is someone who signed a contract to serve. Who swore an oath to protect and uphold the u.s constitution. From all enemies, foreign and domestic.
Just because you have not been shot at doesn't make not a veteran.

I have deployed to non combat areas. And can claim veteran status. Instead of dodging bullets. I helped build schools and hospitals for under developed parts of central America. That is still serving.

Response by Capt Paul Newcomb made Aug 20 at 2017 9:02 AM

2017-08-20T09:02:01-04:00

If you served, you're a vet. If you're a combat vet, you own a CIB or rack or ribbons which tell the story for those who truly care and are not just voyeurs.

Response by SGM Gerald Fife made Aug 20 at 2017 1:46 PM

2017-08-20T13:46:58-04:00

I enlisted on 2 Dec 54. The Korean War (conflict) was declared over on 31 Jan 55. I am considered a Korean Era veteran although not serving in Korea. From the day I enlisted to the day I retired (1 Aug 95) I served my country. I served 9 months at the end in 1991 in support of Desert Storm. All the in between was Reserve and Active Duty with 19 months in Germany in the 50's. I consider myself a veteran. What would you call a person who served his obligation and then separated from the military if not a veteran, then call me................?
I realize this post is a year old but just noticed it and wanted to respond.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2017 10:23 AM

2017-08-21T10:23:27-04:00

Everyone is a Veteran but not everyone is a combat veteran. just because you haven't been overseas does not mean you have not earned the title of veteran. those who do go overseas could not accomplish the mission without the other vets back home stateside.

Response by Hunter Febes made Aug 23 at 2017 11:02 AM

2017-08-23T11:02:38-04:00

Ok so my father was a E5 Sgt if you don't know that's a Sargent in the USMC he never diploid he was 4 days out then the war ended. The point is at any moment things can change he singed the doted line to give his life for HIS country there for he has earned the right to be called a veteran.

Response by SSgt Holden M. made Aug 23 at 2017 3:07 PM

2017-08-23T15:07:18-04:00

So I have seen this article a few different times and now ready to put my two cents out there. I feel as though anybody that has made it through basic training has earned the right to be called a veteran. But if you failed out of your job training or did 4 years and got out just don't lie about your service or try to make it sound like you did more then you did.

But I do think there should be a designation for a combat veteran. I'm not trying to put anybodies service down but combat veterans are different. Combat veterans shouldn't be put ahead of the line of non combat veterans or anything but there is just something and I know this will sound really lame and sound like I'm being full of myself but there is something about knowing that you might come home in a medal box that changes you and unless you have been in the same situation it's hard to relate. I remember when I was in a peer support group it was strictly for combat veterans because we needed to be able to share and be able to relate to eachother.

Response by PO1 Dennis Herdina made Aug 23 at 2017 7:14 PM

2017-08-23T19:14:25-04:00

That is pure Ramlatch.....you serve your time active reserve or guard you are a veteran END OF STORY. And wether you did combat or not that still applies. You stood ready to go THAT ALONE makes you a veteran! yOU wrote a check to the United states of America backed with your body and mind. That alone makes you someone extraordinary. You are and always will be a veteran wether out 1 day or 100 years you are still a veteran AND ALWAYS WILL BE.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 24 at 2017 6:00 AM

2017-08-24T06:00:35-04:00

Sure, call yourself a veteran, but there needs to be a stark distinction between what it means to be a veteran and what it means to be a combat veteran.

Response by PO2 Willis Linn made Aug 24 at 2017 9:54 AM

2017-08-24T09:54:00-04:00

A Veteran is supposed to be anyone who served Honorably and to me that means they deserve recognition and the benefits of the VA, there are already different types of Veterans, service connected disabled, combat veterans, or veterans from this war or some other one. The division is not intended to help but to play one type service against another to avoid paying back for the selfless job of service. They already cheat people out of combat status, I feel if you're put in life endangering areas where you are a wartime target, in a declared war or not, you are still in combat. Military and Congressional head games like divide and conquer, they use it against everyone friend or foe.

Response by SPC Matthew Grimes made Aug 24 at 2017 5:06 PM

2017-08-24T17:06:21-04:00

What if you served during peace time or never saw combat- even while deployed? I was in non-combat job (Signal Corps- 25L). The combat guys call us "POG's", like we were insignificant.
I may not have real combat experience, but I served and I did my job. I think "Veteran" is what we all are- those of us who served our bit honorably, with pride. I have nothing but respect and admiration for the Infantry guys and other combat MOS's, but they couldn't do their job without us doing ours. We were all a team with many working parts. I love the Army. Miss it every day. I AM A VETERAN.

Response by SSG Stephen Arnold made Aug 24 at 2017 9:04 PM

2017-08-24T21:04:46-04:00

I served nearly 5 years on active duty without a combat deployment. Upon ETS I enlisted in the ARNG. 10 months later I was recalled to active duty and deployed to Saudi Arabia for Desert Storm.

I had ZERO control over my assignments. I was a veteran before deployment, and a combat veteran afterward. So what?

Response by SSgt Cheryl Buckler made Aug 25 at 2017 7:28 AM

2017-08-25T07:28:44-04:00

I was in the Cold War, I served overseas, I faced armed individuals [I was in Law Enforcement, USAF], I was never in combat, but I believe I am a Veteran. I will never forget the first time I was told that I wasn't a "real Veteran" because I was a woman.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Aug 27 at 2017 5:17 PM

2017-08-27T17:17:02-04:00

NO! YES! (you ask the question differently twice in a row). Only about 7% of all living Americans have served in the military - they absolutely deserve veteran status and any benefit deserved! Due to oddball assignments and locations it was almost 20 yrs before I was able to deploy to a combat zone - I was injured multiple times in TRAINING to deploy - should I be denied veteran status? I don't think so. I've since deployed multiple times but so what?

Response by SPC Stanley Robinson made Aug 28 at 2017 9:41 AM

2017-08-28T09:41:16-04:00

Usually I would stay away from a question like this but I just couldn't resist. Once you join, go through basic, AIT, and are deploy-able, you are still giving up your civilian freedom to protect freedom. My service connected injuries were sustained outside of combat. During my time being assigned to Berlin before the wall came down, we were in danger of being targets by the RAF and the Skinheads just for being American soldiers. many of my comrades were stabbed or blown up there from these groups of anti-western culture persons. I can not speak for all armed forces, but I know that an army artillery unit stationed in Germany trains hard, and when you run on cobble-stone streets with jump boots and 80 pound rucks four days a week, it can take a heavy toll on your body. In my opinion, anybody that successfully completes their initial training, and is trained to be combat ready, has earned the status of veteran and all the honors that that implies.

Response by CPO Nate S. made Aug 28 at 2017 10:40 AM

2017-08-28T10:40:34-04:00

As a retired navy veteran PO1 Nagel is VERY correct! Once you signed your contract you were subject to "deployment" anywhere anytime. Lets take the current situation with Hurricane Harvey. Would this not constitute a "deployment" to help our fellow citizens. It is not in a "war zone"; however, for those who have never functioned in disaster like I have such scenarios are a "type of war zone". Every deployment combat or humanitarian has hazards and military people are trained to be prepared to deliver the statement mission - what ever it is!

Those who are attempting to 'split hairs' are looking to create problems where NONE exist!

Attempting to cause division within military ranks with such a discussion is disloyal at best and dishonorable at worst!!! Are people saying that because someone was not deployed that are not a veteran?

So, are people also saying saying that medics and corpsman who did not deploy, but who were stateside taking career of the wounds warriors of their fellow warriors who did "deploy" are unworthy of the title - veteran!!! Are you kidding? Medics and corpsman helping to treat the obvious and hidden wounds of war are heroic as well. How dare people disrespect people whose job it is to heal in or outside a combat zone. Those who use the word deployed in one sense need to understand what the word "deployment" means in each of the services. As long as your military service was HONORABLE, I consider you a veteran, regardless if you were deployed or not!

FYI, as of the 2015 US Census data those who are considered Between Major War Periods number ~ 3,124,834. Are these brave men and women unworthy of the title - veteran. They are VERY entitled!!!

Response by SSgt Boyd Welch made Aug 29 at 2017 9:50 AM

2017-08-29T09:50:05-04:00

If we eliminate those who did not deploy from veteran status, then you eliminate 3/4 of the entire military force. No paychecks at the front line, no DEPOT aircraft maintainers, No training NCO's. No Field Training Detachments, No reserves, no ANG... When you put the uniform on, sign on the dotted line and swear your oath, you gave just about everything you are to be sacrificed for the good of the nation. If you do this honorably, I think that this in and of itself qualifies you to earn the title "Veteran".

Response by CPT David Lowe made Aug 30 at 2017 3:10 AM

2017-08-30T03:10:52-04:00

Veteran Status is simple question with a complicated answer. According to the Veterans Administration, a service member is eligible for VA benefits as long as they have completed at least 180 days of Active Duty, not including Active Duty for Training (ADT) and have not been dishonorably discharged. But to receive many of the benefits, there are additional requirements. For VA Medical, a veteran must serve a minimum of 2 years continuous active duty (or the full period for which they were called up for) (https://explore.va.gov/health-care). A service member can also qualify for medical benefits if they apply within 5 years following demob from a deployment. There is also a contingency where if a SM has completed at least 20 years service in the National Guard, Air Guard, or Reserves, and has not been deployed through no fault of their own (i.e. their unit was not mobilized or called up). I have also seen news article concerning benefits for veterans of the Cold War. To say a SM must serve in a combat zone to be a veteran would disqualify a large population. We cannot alienate those who have served on active duty state-side and/or Europe for their whole career, not the citizen-soldiers who have never been deployed. Yes, I feel those of us who have been in combat zones should have more recognition than a tarnished medal and bad memories. That does not mean those who served, but did not go to combat should be left to fend for themselves. As far as veterans benefits go, we need to be more inclusive, not exclusive.

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Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2017 7:02 AM

2017-08-30T07:02:04-04:00

I believe there are experiences that you go through on a combat deployment that you can't learn anywhere else. Also, there is a certain bond you form with the people you deployed with that will last a lifetime. I get excited telling my soldiers today about my experiences in Afghanistan. I know I'm not the only one that thinks about how it's possible for someone with 7-10 yrs experience to not deploy, when we have been in Afghanistan for so long. I'm just sharing my honest opinion, but I do believe you're still a veteran if you have never deployed.

Response by CPO Nate S. made Aug 31 at 2017 7:37 AM

2017-08-31T07:37:43-04:00

Lt.
Tell you peers and soldiers this:

Say to them - "Why do you asked this question or make this statement?"

- Then record their reasoning here, of course protecting their privacy, since they are not posting themselves.
- Create a file in MS Word and the answers you fine here and give those answers to them.
- Ask then to then write a 1 page rebuttal (pro or con) based the answers you have found here. Give them 24 hrs to respond - in writing!!!
- Study their answers and create a summary of those written responses so we may know the reasoning of these fellow veterans for addressing this issue - at all.

I think people should put them money where their mouths are and consider, more deeply, what they asking. The democracy, which all of those who responded here, chose to defend in their respect ways are lesson NO veteran should EVER forget!

Close you discussion with this current event groups of facts specific to the impact of Hurricane Harvey on the VETERANS in Texas & Louisiana:

- > 475,000 veterans expected to be impacted
- > $18 Billion in personal economic impact as calculated from annual average salary figures for these states
- > 55,000 of these veterans are female
- > 115,000 are over the age of 55
- > 11,000 have a Service Connected Disability (not all from combat operations)

Oh, relate this story of a "veteran" I am aware of from Hurricane Floyd in 1999 that impacted eastern North Carolina in the same manner as Hurricane Harvey is now and to a much greater degree is having. This comes from an article I wrote entitled "Taking an Early Look at Hurricane Harvey’s
Potential Impact on the Texas and Louisiana Area Veterans Community" yesterday for my CEO, who wanted my perspective so he could work with other CEOs to get the word out about the impact Hurricane Harvey's impact on area veterans:

"In 1999 when Hurricane Floyd struck Eastern North Carolina, specifically Pitt County and the City of Greenville, there was a Korean War veteran who took shelter in one of the Red Cross Disaster Shelters that had been established. About the second day into sheltering a little girl (age <10) was starting to become frightened. Her mother did not know what to do. So, as the story goes this Korean War veteran asked if he could help. Turns out, he walked with a limp, but used his disability to give hope and quiet to a frightened little girl. He sat with her and her mother at the lunch room table where he took off his artificial leg and began quietly to tell the young how he came to loose his leg and how frightened he was.

His story was not vial or gross! He spoke with the elegance of a poet. She and later other kids sat listening to his story with focused interest. These kids handled the articfical leg and asked him tough questions. His answers rivaled the most skilled politican, yet what he taught those young people was that is was ok to be afraid, but it was not ok to fear! He was afraid of the uncertainity the loss of his leg presented to him, but he also knew that such fear could not overtake and cripple him for life.

While I did not witness this first hand because I was engaged in other volunteer disaster relief duties, one of my volunteer (non-veteran) counterparts shared the story with me over coffee a couple of days after that shelter was closed as the need for the shelter had now dissipated. Yet, when I look at data such as been presented in this article I am reminded of the courage of people and a gentle kindness displayed quietly by those who have worn the nation on their shoulders in service."

Oh, BTW, he lost his leg, no in combat, but in a freak accident loading supplies wile stationed in Japan to go to guys at the front in Korea. So, I appreciate the reflection and integrity of SFC Hudson and his real-world understanding of those that support the ultimate success of any mission.

LT, tell those with whom you come in contact to focus on the REAL-WORLD needs of veterans and CUT the CRAP!!! When timing is right in you discussions give them the story above, but don't tell the art about how his leg was lost. See their reactions to the story 1st!!! I suspect you will learn a lot about their character and real motivations for even bringing up - this subject.

Respectfully,
,
A Retired - US Navy Chief Hospital Corpsman
ONE A VETERAN - ALWAYS A VETERAN!!!

Response by SGT Christopher Lachcik made Aug 31 at 2017 8:29 AM

2017-08-31T08:29:59-04:00

Yes

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2017 12:27 PM

2017-08-31T12:27:04-04:00

I literally served for years and deployed before I even realized the word "veteran" included people who never deployed. When I found out they are also included in the word "veteran," it didn't bother me one bit. I've served with plenty of guys who would eat a bullet for his buddy but never got sent anywhere.

Response by SFC Phillip Allen made Aug 31 at 2017 9:52 PM

2017-08-31T21:52:38-04:00

Not to dwell on it too much, but 6 combat deployments, numerous short term deployments, several overseas unaccompanied short tours, all in all I spent nearly half of my 26 Army/Air Force years deployed in some form or other. But does that make me anymore a veteran than my father who spent 22 years in the Navy, doing the duty he was assigned, and trained to do, but never was sent to a combat zone, no absolutely not. Anyone who raises their hand, takes the oath and signs on the dotted line are stepping up in a way that less than 2% of our country has or ever will do. Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, active, reserve, guard, doesn't matter we all earned our status, and deservedly so, I say. Take pride in your service, and don't try to minimize what another person who has undertaken the same responsibilities as you, has done, based on matters that may be beyond their control. That being said, combat veterans will always share a bond based on their experiences, and that is not a bad thing.

Response by MSG Laura Washington made Sep 3 at 2017 5:23 AM

2017-09-03T05:23:26-04:00

If you wore the uniform, and were issued a DD214, I believe you should be considered a Veteran. If you want to split hairs - deployment vs mobilization; stateside vs overseas; combat zone, contingency operations, Combatant Command, and many other terms, who know who would be "legally" considered a Veteran. We should not differentiate from the Service Member who gets hurt during initial entry training and gets a medical separation, the Service Member who separates after their initial term, or elects to stay longer. They have all served and made sacrifices. Saying that, I will request that we all be politically conscious to ensure that our representatives do not try to limit what qualifies a Service Member to have Veteran status.

Response by PO1 Walter White made Sep 3 at 2017 6:10 PM

2017-09-03T18:10:20-04:00

If you wear the uniform, you could be called upon to serve anywhere, anytime. The fact that you didn't deploy is not your fault. You were there, and ready if the call came. I certainly think they should be legally called Veterans. I served 13 honorable years, deployed to Vietnam, I was a Boiler Technician 1st class, and am now fighting asbestosis.

Response by CW4 Brian Haas made Sep 4 at 2017 7:53 PM

2017-09-04T19:53:30-04:00

You're a Vet if you served. Not in combat, but if you signed that check that you were willing to...you're a Vet. Anyone that tells someone different, I'd have two words for them. The last word is "off." Anyone who says that is just lacking in self confidence, ignorant, or stupid.

Response by SGT Steve Oakes made Sep 4 at 2017 11:58 PM

2017-09-04T23:58:19-04:00

Speaking with older veterans when I got back. I found this shit comes up during and after every war.
For most it is not an issue. For those who deployed and think less of those who did not.
Who do you think trained the replacements? Shipped the beans and bullets? Stood ready to defend the home land if you were out flanked? Every service member has a role to play. Not all are needed to put ordnance down range.

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Sep 5 at 2017 1:03 PM

2017-09-05T13:03:59-04:00

It would appear that you as an ex-Army officer have not taken all services into account in your questioning. First, what do you mean by the term "deploying"? Do you mean faced enemy fire? Do you mean simply walking on foreign ground? Or do you mean being ordered to stay in a foreign land for service? If any of these were your view, just exactly how does a man ordered to administrative duties at a military post in Peru, differ from a marine ordered to the front in Afganistan, in your view and relating to your question? I served in the Navy for 20 years and for about 15 of those years I was on a submarine which spent a great deal of time at sea. While at sea, I have been to the Arctic Circle , through the Panama Canal, visited Japan, the Philapines, and China, and once to Austrailia. I have been in the Med. twice and visited most of those bordering countries. I spent two years in Spain, and only faced enemy guns once in my life. However, many of my naval comrades never had the opportunity to go abroad. In my service, the submarine was never threatened by the enemy, because the enemy did not have submarines, or the surface ships to fight them. So perhaps you should broaden your views a bit and take in consideration those "other" services besides the Army in your question!

Response by SrA Alvin Cook made Sep 5 at 2017 4:59 PM

2017-09-05T16:59:35-04:00

I served years as a Surgical technician in the Air Force Reserve. I did my job well. Should my service be deemed UNWORTHY! . As long as one completes their enlistment HONORABLY then all should receive Veteran status. Not taking anything away from those who deployed but service is service.

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Sep 8 at 2017 3:34 PM

2017-09-08T15:34:09-04:00

Nope...serving is serving....deployed or in the rear. You served and gave up your rights as a civilian.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2017 11:06 AM

2017-09-09T11:06:13-04:00

If you stood there and took the oath, served your country honorably and faithfully. Then you are a veteran. I have deployed 9 times to various countries min various operations. I have met some that have never left this country, but to me they are and will always be a veteran with all the respect that they should receive. It doesn't matter what branch they served in or what capacity. They had the courage to stand up and serve their country.

Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Sep 10 at 2017 7:53 PM

2017-09-10T19:53:08-04:00

No offense but I rate that question right along with Bronze star right after I watched several E-7's endorse each others request for the Bronze Star and then receive them during Operation Enduring Freedom. A Soldier is a Soldier and when he supports those that fight that makes him a Veteran and those that have actually fought deserves a great deal of respect and they have mine.

Response by SGT David Nash made Sep 11 at 2017 8:31 AM

2017-09-11T08:31:56-04:00

Being deployed is not a choice. The fact you chose to wear the uniform and make yourself eligible for deployment, along with a clean record makes you a veteran. Deployments are the choices of the brass. There were always times, like Beirut, that many people would have chosen to deploy, but alas it doesn't work like that and you have to wait for orders.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made Sep 11 at 2017 10:13 AM

2017-09-11T10:13:31-04:00

Hopefully for the last time yes everyone that was in, deployed or not is a veteran. Just the ones that deploy is not the only ones that fight a war. Each branch of service is there to support any deployment that is made. So like it or not everyone is a veteran. You can't pick weather or not you support actions. Your jobs does it for all. Hat is why we have so many people. Called support the effort.

Response by CPO Charles Helms made Sep 11 at 2017 10:32 AM

2017-09-11T10:32:28-04:00

When you signed the contract and donned your uniform you are a veteran!! Doesn't matter whether you deploy or not!

Response by PFC Jorge Rodriguez made Sep 11 at 2017 1:16 PM

2017-09-11T13:16:14-04:00

I think as long as someone has an Honorable discharge and completed basic they should be able to claim veteran status. People enlisted and were willing to make the sacrifice... if their destiny didn't lead them overseas i dont think that should effect anything.

Response by Emerald S made Sep 11 at 2017 8:18 PM

2017-09-11T20:18:36-04:00

Waste if time this question, your all together and do not forget that

Response by SSG Stephen Arnold made Sep 11 at 2017 10:49 PM

2017-09-11T22:49:38-04:00

Even the term "combat veteran" is not as simple as many would think. I served with a man who was a Marine infantryman who served in Vietnam. His ARNG unit deployed for Desert Storm. During his outprocessing physical he was informed that he should never have been allowed to deploy due to lingering issues from his memories of Vietnam.

I would never consider my service equal to his experience in his first war. Yes, we were in danger at times, but were never under direct fire.

My combat patch does not carry the weight of his first one. Yes, by regulation it does, but realistically he faced much greater dangers in the jungle.

Veteran = someone who served honorably in the military. Period.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2017 1:20 AM

2017-09-12T01:20:24-04:00

Bottom line: The Army tells you where to go. If an insurgent is going to shoot at you, they aren't going to pause and ask what your MOS is first.
You can volunteer to deploy, but there is no guarantee it is going to happen.

Response by Sgt Tammy Wallace made Sep 13 at 2017 6:48 PM

2017-09-13T18:48:20-04:00

nope.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Sep 13 at 2017 7:07 PM

2017-09-13T19:07:38-04:00

Nope see above referencing the Howitzer Lot Guard Duty I pulled!

Response by SSG David Andrews made Sep 15 at 2017 1:55 PM

2017-09-15T13:55:12-04:00

They deserve and should hold Veteran status. They signed on the bottom line and offered everything, uo to and including their lives in defense of our nation.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Nov 6 at 2017 11:21 PM

2017-11-06T23:21:13-05:00

You aren't Airborne if you didn't jump, You aren't a Combat Vet unless you were in combat. So if you want to be a killer, go kill something

Response by PFC Robert Rice made Nov 7 at 2017 1:45 AM

2017-11-07T01:45:59-05:00

Sir let me start by saying that anyone who has ever put on a uniform and served their whole term honorably is a veteran. Deployments and combat don't define a soldier. Character of service does. This is just my opinion.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Nov 12 at 2017 3:35 PM

2017-11-12T15:35:15-05:00

No, it should not. Great example of non deployments: Anyone who served on the 1K Zone, DMZ, Checkpoint Charlie, took a sub into communist waters, Berlin Airlift, guarded nukes in Europe, how about all those who sat in NIKE Herc Sites all over the free world? How about National Guard members called up for domestic situations, riots, deliver mail, hurricanes, snow storms, wildfires. No they have all served, and they are veterans IMHO.

Response by Cpl Jeffery Broome made Nov 15 at 2017 1:34 PM

2017-11-15T13:34:20-05:00

I personally believe that everyone that walks across the Parade Deck of their respective service's "Boot Camp" graduation service is entitled to the endearing term of Veteran as at that time you have earned it. Later on you may end up either being an "Honorable" or "Dishonorable" discharged Veteran and that's entirely dependant upon the Veteran. The only distinction that anyone should ever worry about is whether you are a "Combat" Veteran or not. Being a "Combat" Veteran myself, that's one distinction I could have done without. Although it gave me a few extra "pretty" little ribbons and awards, the associated problems that I have suffered in the years since are no-where near worth the title or awards. Believe me folks, you that haven't seen "Combat" are a lot better off far having done so.

Response by LCpl Dwight Bland made Dec 12 at 2017 10:47 AM

2017-12-12T10:47:25-05:00

Yes of course, revolutionary war, war of 1812, Cival war, deploy to where? Not to hard to figure out.

Response by Cpl Wayne Wallace made Dec 23 at 2017 3:09 PM

2017-12-23T15:09:00-05:00

Yes they should be allowed. Anyone that took the oath to server and protect this great nation, but never deployed is still a veteran. Semper Fi

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2018 7:36 AM

2018-01-06T07:36:04-05:00

What about someone who was seperated durring A school? Is it enough to sign the line, or do you actually have to accomplish somthing?

Response by SGT Dorian Wolfe made Feb 6 at 2018 11:49 AM

2018-02-06T11:49:58-05:00

No.

Response by SSG Brenda C made Feb 17 at 2018 11:55 AM

2018-02-17T11:55:45-05:00

No that's what combat veteran status is for, or a campaign medal

Response by MSG Charles Turner made Feb 17 at 2018 12:10 PM

2018-02-17T12:10:02-05:00

Sir.
Since we have had men and women wounded in the LINE OF DUTY here in this nation, would you omit them? And if not, them how about the Drill Instructors Injured during training would you omit them? How about those Serving in the Coast Guard and engaging enemies (bot foreign and domestic) are they not Worthy of recognition as Veterans? I guess maybe there is not enough information for me to formulate an answer...

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Feb 19 at 2018 10:53 PM

2018-02-19T22:53:45-05:00

Not just no, but hell no.

Response by SGT Dallas Snell made Feb 22 at 2018 12:18 AM

2018-02-22T00:18:06-05:00

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.”

Response by SPC Kristina Robinson made Mar 28 at 2018 1:38 PM

2018-03-28T13:38:38-04:00

The way I see it if you make it through basic training and AIT and hit your 1st duty station you are considered a vet now I know some will say that as if you sign the dotted line then you're a vet but I don't consider somebody who couldn't even make it through basic training for whatever reason a full vet. To me that's like saying somebody who took 2 or 3 classes in college and then dropped out as a college graduate. I knew a kid in basic training who is on permanent profile and whenever the rest of the Bluetooth was getting smoked all he had to do a salute the flag and this little peal West won't even do that is he considered a vet not in my opinion he wasn't even considered half a human

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2018 4:26 PM

2018-09-03T16:26:05-04:00

I served in the Texas nationals guard for 12.5byrs and I don't understand why I'm not considered a veteran. I even got called up but the Governor of Texas during hurricane Alicia. I signed up in 79 but they changed my sign in date when I moved from Louisiana to Texas.. I thought Donald Trump change it to help us..

Response by SGT Christopher Combs made Sep 16 at 2018 8:10 PM

2018-09-16T20:10:55-04:00

If you're deployed you should be on Federal orders just like any Active Duty unit. Especially if you're in another country. Benefits should but equal etc.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2018 10:45 AM

2018-10-29T10:45:18-04:00

Look, it's not the fault of the Soldier for not deploying in most cases. What matters is the quality of work performed while serving. I have not deployed but I am not going to walk around feeling like I am incomplete because of it. Hats off to those who did deploy though. If ever given the opportunity, I'll honorably execute and deploy as well!

Response by CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern made Nov 11 at 2018 1:48 PM

2018-11-11T13:48:22-05:00

What is a Veteran? 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.

Almost all the jobs in the military have direct civilian counterparts. All jobs offer leadership skills needed every day in the civilian world. About 80 percent of the jobs in the military are non-combat occupations.

Obviously, not everyone in the military can serve in combat. Of those who are in a combat zone, only about 1-2% actually fire a weapon at an enemy. In the US today, of the 21 million qualified veterans, probably only about 2 million are combat veterans.

Not every one of us who serve can serve in combat…that makes us no less a Veteran.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2018 11:53 AM

2018-12-14T11:53:04-05:00

So tired of this "distinction" bullshit ref whose a veteran vs combat veteran vs in-country vs out of country and on and on and on. We already have ways of distinguishing who has seen the elephant like those who earned the CIB, CMB, etc. But if it weren't for the multitude of MOS/AFSC's all doing their jobs in other capacities, the guys on the line wouldn't be there. If it wasn't for your DI/TI you wouldn't be trained. If it weren't for the guys in supply you would be facing the enemy in your civilian clothes and throwing rocks at them. If it weren't for medical personnel in the rear you would bleed out in the field when wounded. If it weren't for the the countless aircraft mechanics sitting on aircraft carriers, AF bases in places like Diego Garcia, etc there would be no planes ready and thus no CAS when needed. I can go on, and on, and on. The bottom line is everyone has their job, they all contribute to the mission, and they all defend the United States in some manner or form.That has existed in every conflict we have ever been in and only since Nam have we been playing this ridiculous game. Stop the division!

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Dec 14 at 2018 6:19 PM

2018-12-14T18:19:12-05:00

1LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member Doesnt even deserve a response. Pitiful.

Response by Cpl Mark McMiller made Dec 14 at 2018 6:19 PM

2018-12-14T18:19:41-05:00

$(*% no.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2018 12:40 AM

2018-12-15T00:40:18-05:00

I have great respect for veterans who have deployed to areas of armed conflict, additional respect beyond that for those who have come under fire, and still more for those that have paid the price through wounds or death. But the word veteran denotes someone who has served on active duty in our military, whether they deployed or not.

Less than 10% of our adult population are veterans by definition in my first paragraph. With over 90% of our adults not having served on active duty in our military (and the overwhelming majority of those never having served in any capacity whatsoever) then my support for the current definition of veteran is reinforced.

I disagree with any suggestion to further limit the scope of the definition of veteran. One does not deploy one's self. I spent 6 years and 10 months on active duty in the regular Army and I spent 6 years in the ARNG. The regular Army part not only involved the "blank check" volunteer element, but also it involved some really, really hard work. Furthermore, if I had gone into my present line of work in my 20s rather than my 40s, I'd have a LOT more money now (not that I have anything to complain about). However, I would consider supporting expanding the definition to include guard and reserves since they are subject to being deployed. I would also support establishing higher levels of veteran status to provide additional recognition to veterans who have directly experienced combat.

Our society puts a lot of value on symbolism. People dump ice-water on the heads and post a picture of it, thinking that they have somehow cured a disease. Virtue-signalling is all the rage. But military service is not symbolism - it's substance. So, it is worthy of a separate status.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2018 12:44 AM

2018-12-15T00:44:02-05:00

One more thing - the original poster stated that they knew they wouldn't have much chance of deploying in the National Guard. I don't know the stats on it, but anecdotally, after 9/11, we were sending lots and lots of guardsmen to active duty while the regular Army unit I had left was sitting there, and sitting there, and sitting there and I don't remember for certain, but I think that if I had been assigned there on 9/11 that I could have made it 3 years to PCS without that unit having gone anywhere. So, the RC definitely deploys.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2018 9:16 PM

2018-12-27T21:16:41-05:00

Hell No. Not everyone or MOS gets deployed

Response by PO3 Jay Keaty made Jan 17 at 2019 3:59 AM

2019-01-17T03:59:05-05:00

Hello,
I am one of those guys that is technically a Peacetime veteran, but I am also considered a Combat veteran because of what I did. Obviously it is a confusing mix, but here is how the Federal Government sees it. "under Federal Law a VETERAN is any person, who served honorably on active duty in the armed forces of the United States. ", I believe that your boot camp and training qualifies for this.

The VA has stricter guidelines. I don't agree with it, but the Veterans Administration is kind of tightwad on this, and they say that ADT, and the initial training duty time is not used in calculating active time. So, it seems, reservists that have never deployed are not considered eligible for veteran benefits, in their eyes.

But, as I see it, you took an oath, you signed a dotted line and you were willing to put your ass on the line. If you didn't deploy, that means you helped those of us that did, from home. So as I see things, the Non combat veteran deserves as much recognition as the combat vet. Without the guys back home, we couldn't do our jobs.

Response by SFC Robert Lehman made Feb 11 at 2019 12:57 PM

2019-02-11T12:57:57-05:00

if you serve on active duty you are a vet.

Response by PO1 Douglas Shonk made Feb 28 at 2019 10:50 PM

2019-02-28T22:50:32-05:00

Where did the mentality of this asinine question come from? Why would anyone even consider this question of any individual (VETERAN) who has served their country? The mere thought of this question being asked tarnishes “HONOR, COURAGE and COMMITMENT” of all who have served and those serving now and in the future! This “PC” ignorance is getting out of hand. I’m sure John Paul Jones would love to unload on the individuals asking this question.

Response by SGT Everett Bickford made May 19 at 2019 1:07 PM

2019-05-19T13:07:14-04:00

About the "likelihood of being deployed," There were more Guard unit members in Desert storm operations than there were Active Army units, and my Son was not allowed to deploy with an Active Army unit because he had a few seizures, for which he was also chaptered out. Then He enlisted in a Guard unit and was sent to Afghanistan.

Response by SPC Lynwood A. (Glynn) Peeples made Jul 28 at 2019 2:41 PM

2019-07-28T14:41:57-04:00

I joined just at the end of the Vietnam war. I was stationed in Germany during the cold war. I was never deployed but was there and ready if needed. I am a Veteran and PROUD OF IT.

Response by SrA Katherine Hedlund made Jul 31 at 2019 11:22 AM

2019-07-31T11:22:22-04:00

Deployment is not a requirement for veteran status and should not be. Deployed or not, ALL military have given of themselves and were subject to the whims and needs of the service

Response by SPC Shawn Durnen made Aug 16 at 2019 7:30 PM

2019-08-16T19:30:06-04:00

Response by CPL Michael Moore made Oct 5 at 2019 12:57 PM

2019-10-05T12:57:01-04:00

We are all vets. Some however are combat vets if they served in Iraq or Astan for example.

Response by SSgt Jon Hall made Jan 23 at 2020 10:28 AM

2020-01-23T10:28:09-05:00

The numbers in the lower left corner of the DD214 denotes if the reservist was assigned to a duty station or just a school. Some were never assign to a duty station. Their VA benifits vary depending on what happened after 180 days. To save money and still get the work done orders are usually cut for 179 days or less. They, pre-9/11, could be activated (not deployed) and never qualify for benefits. I've shown my copies of orders to a VA rep and they replied they had never seen anything like that before. Completely out of the norm. Some orders were without pay and only medical insurance. The records department has no knowledge of any such orders. I was advised to keep those in a safe place as they are apparently the only copies. So there is a non qualifying veteran classification. The discussion goes on with folks trying to define the veteran title just to their experience. More, " I'm more of a veteran than you".

Response by SPC Alexander Bendyna III made Jan 31 at 2020 8:47 PM

2020-01-31T20:47:26-05:00

Veteran status applies to anyone who comlleted at least 180 days of service. Doesn't matter if you deployed or not.

Response by CPT Wayne Price made Feb 7 at 2020 5:08 PM

2020-02-07T17:08:44-05:00

The military decides where you go.

Response by SPC Cherry Allen made Mar 6 at 2020 12:13 PM

2020-03-06T12:13:12-05:00

We served...we deserve! We all have one mission. Protect our country, and with that in mind...no question about it. I asked a another vet what was his most exciting moment while serving, and he said while stationed in Hawaii he slid down one the best water rides ever! Haha Haha!

Response by SPC William Wilson made Sep 14 at 2020 3:28 PM

2020-09-14T15:28:39-04:00

It does not matter if deployed or not deployed. No one forced you to put your right hand up and practically give your life for your country if need be. You earned the status of veteran. Reserve, guard, active. All one family. Be proud my brothers and sisters.

Response by 1SG Alan Boggs made Sep 14 at 2020 6:29 PM

2020-09-14T18:29:57-04:00

Let me dig out two pennies from under my couch cushions.
I believe if you served out your contract honorably then you can claim to be a veteran. If you deployed to a hostile fire zone , then you are a veteran upon return regardless of the balance of your contract. On the other hand, I have responded to at least one young RECRUIT who didnt make it through entry training for one sick, lame or lazy reason or another. These recruits are not veterans. Thats my 2¢ and these days that wont even buy you a piece of bazooka bubble gum.

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Oct 6 at 2020 9:15 AM

2020-10-06T09:15:21-04:00

I may be biased given that I was on active duty when Guard and Reserve forces had a reputation for checking in just long enough for roll call and not being available when there was a mission to perform. In 1990 we had Desert Shield and Desert Storm come up and the Guard and Reserve forces were not up to the tasks of deployments for the duration, nor were they up to getting the mission completed without extensive OJT. They were finally ready to complete the mission about the time the shooting ended.

Should they be considered veterans? My opinion is all DOD forces should complete all required training and then start the clock for veteran status. The VA guideline say 180 days active duty.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 19 at 2020 11:02 AM

2020-10-19T11:02:05-04:00

Veteran status was once thought to be reserved for those who deployed to a conflict or combat zone. The VFW changed there admissions as their ranks were thinking. Having said that the VA recognizes many who have not deployed as mentioned before. For me, everyone who enlisted did so knowing that they may lay down their life for their country. The fact that they did not deploy and squeeze a trigger made them no less a Service Member. Everyone who serves deserves Veteran status. One mans thoughts.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cichelli made Oct 19 at 2020 1:29 PM

2020-10-19T13:29:31-04:00

No, there shouldn't be a distinction between Veterans! Reservists and NG train to the same standard as AC. Just because as a Reservist/NG you don't get the call, that decision is beyond you and you don't have a say in the matter. The last 9 years of my 38 years of service was to train RC staff personnel to standard for deployments. I also spent 11 years in Filed Artillery as a Reservist. Oddly enough my one and only deployment came when I served as an interim Band Commander. It was a local deployment. Funny things we almost deployed to Afghanistan to support the US Embassy in Kabul. Only at the last minute, they pulled the plug on the deployment. Now you see why IMHO a Veteran is a Veteran regardless of deployments. Also a note, when RC personnel attend Army schools, they tend to do significantly better than their AC counter parts.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 19 at 2020 2:06 PM

2020-10-19T14:06:56-04:00

This should be a non question.

Response by 1SG Brian Emmert made Oct 19 at 2020 2:26 PM

2020-10-19T14:26:39-04:00

In my humble opinion, the definition of veteran status by legal entities is somewhat erroneous, but then it is hard to put a finger on a definitive definition of veteran. There are those who serve in noncombat roles who directly support the deployed soldier but by regulations or unit policy are not allowed to deploy. They are no less veterans than the individual who deployed in a combat, a CS or CSS role. Just in a different role. Perhaps the definitions should be veteran or combat veteran? Any decision on the matter is many paygrades above what even our military leaders hold.

Response by SFC Arthur Morgan made Oct 19 at 2020 7:08 PM

2020-10-19T19:08:57-04:00

OK, 'LT. ROTC Graduate;

I'll answer your question, with one of mine. Know the difference in VFW versus American Legion? The first, open only Veterans of 'Foreign' Wars. The second is open to all ALL'American' Service Members regardless, branch or pay grade. Recall, many were being alerted impending deployment the Gulf, Desert Shield. A recent BCT/AIT 'graduate' exclaimed, "What? Wait! Deploy! But Sergeant. I came in for the GI Bill...for college! Not to go into no war! There's gotta be some...mistake?!" And he made it.

Now I'll ask you a question.

I 'volunteered' while Vietnam Veterans left military service, glad they were able to. Somebody...still had to serve, both in CONUS & abroad as well, preparing for the 'next' war.. Ever heard term, "REFORGER"? How about Ready Reaction Force? What about those assigned units stationed, (then) West Germany or South Korea? For me, I've served in both with a total of over seven 3/3/1 = 7 years far from home & family in CONUS, probably before you were born. No insult, a fact. There was a reason it was called, 'COLD WAR'.

Response by SFC Arthur Morgan made Oct 19 at 2020 7:30 PM

2020-10-19T19:30:23-04:00

There was a time, I used to jest about those in the Air Force & Navy comparative to Marines & Army serving in Vietnam. Ended when I met a few Vietnam Veterans...of Both. Para Rescue and 'Brown Shoe' Navy Vets that served where were needed, at the time. (Recommend See 'Beyond Full Measure'.)

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Oct 19 at 2020 8:27 PM

2020-10-19T20:27:43-04:00

In response to the six year old question, NO.
For those who keep track of such things; I served out all my contracts and took the same oath each time I signed. I served in country during Vietnam. I was shot at. I shot people who prefered to kill me when we were feet apart on the ground. I think that satisfies everyone's picky qualification for whatever you want to call me.
As for me, when I sit at the bar in an airport and the stranger on the next stool tells me he or she served their tour in any of our armed forces, I'm always proud to share a few moments with another Vet and will probably buy him another drink if the conversation is pleasant.
Quite frankly, and I can say this because I'm old and have already been subjected to most of the verbal and physical abuse that exists, if it's a female veteran who has a pleasant laugh, I'll probably buy her two drinks.

Response by SFC Scott Higgins made Oct 22 at 2020 3:17 PM

2020-10-22T15:17:57-04:00

No, they should not. Which is very discouraging that the VA does. According to their rules, ARNG soldiers are not eligible for treatment unless you were deployed for reasons other than training. If you volunteered and served your time, you are a veteran whether deployed or not.

Response by SGT John Lawrence made Oct 25 at 2020 4:58 PM

2020-10-25T16:58:48-04:00

In the fall of 2018 the American Legion went before Congress and Congress approved with the President signing legislation the the War on Terror was on Sept 11, 2001 to present day but legislation move the War on Terror to December 7, 1941 there by granting access to the American Legion for all that served from 12/07/1941 on to present.

Response by SPC Christopher Murphy Jr. made Nov 1 at 2020 8:52 AM

2020-11-01T08:52:27-05:00

There is a difference between a veteran and a combat veteran. A combat veteran is still a veteran, but a veteran is not always a combat veteran. Being a veteran just means you took an oath and served the country (or state for Guard) for a period of time that is specific to the individual. Being a combat veteran means you took an oath, served the country, and were sent to a combat location. This has no reliance on branch or component. Everyone who takes the oath has the potential to be sent to combat, otherwise there would be little need for a boot camp, and non-combat MOS's would just go to AIT (for Army at least). That is what makes someone a veteran or not. Were they someone who signed the dotted line, raised their right hand, and took an oath to Uncle Sam; all the while knowing it may be the death of them? If so, they are classified as a veteran.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Nov 2 at 2020 5:24 AM

2020-11-02T05:24:54-05:00

Why? If you signed the check to uncle sam and served honorably you are VET . Welcome aboard !

Response by 1stSgt Michael Shafer made Nov 4 at 2020 1:15 AM

2020-11-04T01:15:18-05:00

No! Deployment has nothing to do with being a VETERAN no discussion needed.

Response by Sgt Joan Acquistapace made Nov 4 at 2020 11:57 AM

2020-11-04T11:57:45-05:00

As an instructor stateside, I feel good that the guys who went through schools had the knowledge to make sure that equipment was fixed/operational during your deployment and helped get you there and back safely. Now, since part of my ‘brain’ went with some of you, doesn’t that have some value?? You don’t get out to combat without the knowledge and skills of those people stateside in training positions who never deployed. I feel that a part of me went with every Marine I taught a skill. Therefore, I’ve been most everywhere in the world and in combat as well. Semper Fi from one proud Woman Marine Veteran!!

Response by MSgt Sidney Lichter made Nov 5 at 2020 6:37 AM

2020-11-05T06:37:15-05:00

Absolutely NOT. I volunteered during Vietnam. My first permanent party duty station was the 5-sided office building near our Capitol city. From there to Taiwan (Republic of China). Thence to another "foreign" duty station (for a guy from New York City), Alabama, Germany, and back to Alabama (a different installation). I dare you to say I'm NOT a veteran.

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Nov 11 at 2020 9:47 PM

2020-11-11T21:47:43-05:00

"Veteran Status" in my mind is any person, who served in ANY military branch for 180 days or more. Hence, some Reservists are considered "veterans," by the VA; but some who didn't hit that 180 day mark are not. To me however, if you took the Oath of Enlistment (or officer), and received an Honorable Discharge, REGARDLESS of days served on active duty, then you ARE a "Veteran."

Response by SPC William Szkromiuk made Nov 15 at 2020 4:39 PM

2020-11-15T16:39:14-05:00

Deployed? I never heard that term back in 65-68. You went "overseas" or you went to "Nam". Or, Heaven forbid, you were stuck in sucky state side duty.........ughhh
Maybe I slept thru my deployment. :-)
Any other old farts care to chime in? I have been wrong already once this year hehe

Response by PFC Craig Karshner made Nov 17 at 2020 8:03 PM

2020-11-17T20:03:28-05:00

Veterans are anyone who has served no matter if you didn't see action. We put our life on the line for our great country knowing it could mean our life. Anyone who chose to serve deserves no is entitled to Veterans status. God bless us and the greatest country in the world. Rangers lead the way..

Response by MAJ Jeff Houston made Nov 19 at 2020 10:13 AM

2020-11-19T10:13:16-05:00

Absolutely not. If you served honorably, did whatever Uncle Sam asked you to do, then you earned the privilege to be a Veteran in every sense of the word.

Response by PVT Dominique Stewart made Dec 4 at 2020 8:10 PM

2020-12-04T20:10:54-05:00

I personally think all service members who graduated initial entry training should have the right to claim veteran status

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2020 3:11 PM

2020-12-07T15:11:58-05:00

It would be poor strategy for military command to deploy everyone somewhere. We don’t have that much ability to defend ourselves against Russia for example. They could take down much of our power and communications grid. Drug shipments regularly fly up our East coast, perhaps not often with a U.S. destination but easier to land in remote Canada. Our fleet is declining, especially in comparison to China’s increasing fleet and Russian Arctic capabilities. President Biden will not consider himself more expert than generals and admirals, so listen to their advice. At least President Trump did not enlist, that could have been detrimental in some way though it might have taught him some realism. I deployed three times and volunteered on two Navy South Pacific aid cruises in conjunction with Project Hope. So you can call me a left wing radical if you wish.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2020 10:40 AM

2020-12-21T10:40:54-05:00

I think if you are running around claiming every discount and playing on the publics ignorance to puff your chest out and say look at me when you have never deployed is douchebaggery at its finest. Still a veteran tho.

Response by CW3 Davis Newman made Dec 21 at 2020 2:27 PM

2020-12-21T14:27:25-05:00

Our military is a worldwide operation. We can not all be at the tip of the spear. And
I believe that every mos and assignment everywhere is necessary for success. What makes you a veteran is that you SERVED. It does not matter where! when or what you did.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2020 8:56 AM

2020-12-22T08:56:44-05:00

To me as a retiree, I do feel that a “Veteran” status is a Service member who served for six years or longer. For Service members who only served 3 years or less should not be labeled a veteran for that fact that the first year is basically training, the second year is adjusting to active duty life and after its all said and done the last year of a 3 year tour is transitioning out of service. So to me to be called a veteran should at least complete 6 years to 8 years of service. This is my opinion. A lot of individuals just come in for 1 term and get out. The military as a whole should start enlistment terms at 6 years no less.

Response by Sgt Ed Beal made Dec 22 at 2020 9:14 AM

2020-12-22T09:14:55-05:00

At this time in history we have a lot of deployments, I was in at a time just after Vietnam I was never in a hostile area but I did get injured on the job, some 20 surgeries later I still have issues am I not a veteran because I was not deployed? Those that sign up and serve have the same risks of being sent into a hostile area based on there branch of service and job. Those that deploy get additional ribbons. For example the marines most would be veterans but not many air force would, don’t think you would like being out there today without our superior air support and the drone drivers are not on that side of the world how many lives they saved. I have heard “cannon fodder” make statements like you have in the past mostly in the hospital where I spent several years prior to being forced out.

Response by PO3 Dwight Nantz made Dec 22 at 2020 9:40 AM

2020-12-22T09:40:25-05:00

No!

Response by SGT Mark Vandolah made Dec 22 at 2020 12:28 PM

2020-12-22T12:28:51-05:00

All of us who signed the dotted line are Veterans, with that said there is such thing as a combat veteran. Your status as a combat veteran can afford you additional benefits if you have certain awards, i.e Purple Heart, campaign medal, etc. But in the end we who served are veterans

Response by SSG Paul Bennis made Dec 22 at 2020 12:31 PM

2020-12-22T12:31:21-05:00

I was in the Army Reserves and was activated to deploy as a combat engineer, my wife was pregnant, the house I was building by myself was half done and of course I had to leave my job. During training there was a bad bus accident on way to the ranges, many soldiers permanently hurt so the unit was under strength. Rather than deploying the unit of combat engineers were used to run ranges, teach classes, unload the RR cars of returning vehicles, etc. We were not happy with our non-deployable status and we were not happy being used for what ever job they wanted us to do but we are veterans. We showed up because they called with the intention of being the "tip of the spear" having been told that it would be heavy casualties(we were training prior to initial invasion of Iraq). We may not have deployed but if you are on active duty at a time of war you are a veteran.

Response by Maj Dale Smith made Dec 22 at 2020 1:59 PM

2020-12-22T13:59:13-05:00

Is this a serious question? You signed the dotted line and we all raised our right hand and, "Swore to uphold and defend the Conbstitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic." Apx. 90% of all the military services combined, do not get into a shooting war, but those who do, try doing your job without those sealifing, airlifting and air supporting your job. Just because you may not have been shot at, does not mean you haven't gone in harm's way. Try overflying the Soviet Union on their northern border after flying over the north pole in the middle of winter, or descend to 1000' below sea level where the sea is crushing your submarine at 31 times the pressure of an average car tire. Neither one of these individuals got shot at, but may have been intercepted by PVO Straney with AAM-9 missles, or a Delta class submarine. As an infantryman, you get shot, one rifle goes out of action. Knock out 20 warriors in a rear echelon logistics base, and a battalion or brigade doesn't get any ammunition or food. Where do you think a strategist should target? Everyone is subject to worldwide deployment to whereever needed!

Response by PFC James Sander made Dec 22 at 2020 3:21 PM

2020-12-22T15:21:30-05:00

YES AND I BELONG TO VETERANS OF ALL ERAS IN PENNSYLVANIA I DID BELONG TO THE VFW AND AMERICAN LEGION TILL THEY TOLLD ME THAT THEY WAS NOT DOING ANYTHING FOR THE VETERANS THAT SERVED IN 9VIETNAM0 SO THEN I JOINED THE VVA AND VETERANS OF THE VIETNAM WAR

Response by SPC Paul Hayward made Dec 22 at 2020 4:02 PM

2020-12-22T16:02:58-05:00

if you served honorably, you are a veteran, if you saw combat as well, you are a combat veteran... period

Response by PO2 James Brown made Dec 22 at 2020 4:27 PM

2020-12-22T16:27:42-05:00

If U Dnt' leave MY country, to B in harms way, NO VFW Membership.......Most country's can be dangerous.... Just in the "gards"? NO!
Were the rules from the beginning...Why change?
Another thing that Pe s me off "they Didn't call my #....
2 YEARS MIN. EVERY ONE!!! Or U don't "deserve what U'r DEMANDING from the GOV.

U ASK, I GAVE.......

Response by Col Peter Tunison made Dec 22 at 2020 6:04 PM

2020-12-22T18:04:37-05:00

Someone wants to change the dictionaries of the world? How pompous is that

Response by LCDR Joseph Richter made Dec 23 at 2020 2:57 PM

2020-12-23T14:57:19-05:00

This is an absurd question. Sign on the line, don the uniform and serve proudly and honorably. Uncle Sam says who goes where. Coming from the Medical Community, I saw a lot of enlisted Corpsman NEC's that did not deploy, such as the physical therapy technician. So here's a guy or gal that doesn't deploy because of their job, but as all the broken soldier and sailors return home to hospitals, this guy or gall is putting in the hours to help these wounded folks walk, eat, hold, touch and stand again. Countless hours of dedicated service to these patriots. I had a personal friend that was a PT Tech in Naples Italy, and he so badly wanted to join a Marine Corps unit or deploy aboard a ship but couldn't yet he was one of the best in his field, worked independently from a physical therapist and had a case load he managed of over 130. Why deny him veteran status or even think of it? I say bloom where you are planted and give it your best. Veteran = Service, not deployment.

Response by MAJ Christopher Thompson made Dec 24 at 2020 3:07 AM

2020-12-24T03:07:45-05:00

If there is a misunderstanding regarding what qualifies for "veteran status", contact the Department of Veteran Affairs. Most of the added concepts mentioned are not part of the definition. If you served, you are a veteran, even if not provided an honorable discharge. There are differences between retirees, and those that combat served, (or both), but we are all still veterans.

Response by 1SG Jeffrey Mullett made Dec 24 at 2020 11:39 PM

2020-12-24T23:39:05-05:00

A Veteran is someone who served, honorably. I am a little indifferent on those who are released on a General Discharge, though anyone with a less than Honorable or a Dishonorable are NOT Veterans.
A Combat Veteran is someone who was directly involved in Combat. I have served in Combat zones twice, but I never exchanged fire with an enemy. I was almost killed by a rocket in Basra Iraq, October 2009, but I never fired my weapon. I don't consider myself a Combat Veteran, though some might.
I am, however, a Veteran of a Foreign War.
Those are the different classifications as I see them.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2020 8:11 AM

2020-12-25T08:11:32-05:00

No. Intra-organizational elitism is toxic and unnecessary.

Response by CPT Jerry Lucas made Dec 26 at 2020 5:19 PM

2020-12-26T17:19:28-05:00

This should answer most of your questions. https://va.org/what-is-a-veteran-the-legal-definition/#:~:text=Title%2038%20of%20the%20Code,any%20branch%20of%20armed%20forces

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

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 SGT Doug Blanchard made Dec 27 at 2020 4:28 PM

2020-12-27T16:28:44-05:00

Back when I served, post Vietnam, I along with many others never deployed. There were some that served in Europe, some that served in S. Kores, others in Japan. We are still Veterans, granted we served during peace time, during the Cold War, we still trained like the balloon was going to go up at aby moment. The thing is, I stood up and took an Oath to Uphold and Defend this country. Like somany before me, and so many after me, I wrote that same check to the people of this country that was made payable in the amount of upto and including my life if need be.
So don't let someone tell you that you are not a Veteran just because you did not deploy ti a combat zone. Not all members of the military do, even today, while others deploy to combat zones several times.
Only time I had an agency try to tell me that I was not a Veteran, was when I was hired on at a local military base in their public works dept as a painter. The DoD tried telling me I was not a Veteran, consudering I draw a small V.A. pension, and am a 10pt Vet. Come to find out it was the Capt over public works had a hard on against any one that had not served in the Navy, as I served in the Army. Long story short, I got the job and was there until the new base comnander took over and contracted the work out that the piblic works unit did. That is a story gor another day though.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Dec 28 at 2020 5:24 AM

2020-12-28T05:24:36-05:00

NO. Don't think I need to elaborate on this one.

Response by Sgt Ryan Mullenix made Dec 30 at 2020 6:47 PM

2020-12-30T18:47:39-05:00

I served 5 years active duty in the Corps, 98-03. Two deployments, one to Japan, one to the Persian gulf after the second Iraqi war. For New Jersey civil service purposes, I wasn't a veteran until I submitted my fitness report that showed I was part of Iraqi freedom/Enduring freedom, cuz NJ requires it. Since my DD-214 only listed deployment and sea service, I wasn't a veteran for them until I sent in my fitness report that listed those operations

Response by Sgt Chris Hanson made Jan 1 at 2021 10:33 PM

2021-01-01T22:33:30-05:00

My dad said the same thing when I enlisted in 1988. I was talking about veteran's benefits and he said you had to be in combat to be a veteran. I told him that now, anyone who's been in the military is a veteran - unless you retired, then you're a military retiree.

Response by 1SG Leon Espe made Jan 3 at 2021 10:08 AM

2021-01-03T10:08:32-05:00

How about "Combat Veteran" and "Non-Combat Veteran" designation on ID or Driver's License? If nothing else it would be honest. Anyone who served over twenty four hours in a combat zone would be considered a "Combat Veteran".

Response by SGT Horacio DeSouza made Jan 7 at 2021 7:35 AM

2021-01-07T07:35:11-05:00

For me vet status should be once you have done your first duty station.

Response by SSG Greg Miech made Jan 18 at 2021 3:34 PM

2021-01-18T15:34:48-05:00

Soldier is a Veteran regardless if he/she/whatever was deployed. For they were ready to be deployed and a deterrent against hostile activities and such as the soldier can be called upon to fight. If called to fight you would be a Combat Veteran. There is no difference in title of Combat Veteran between the one on a ship, stays in the FOB, Kuwait or knocking down a door.

Response by GySgt Mike Swisher made Jan 19 at 2021 12:45 AM

2021-01-19T00:45:12-05:00

YES . . . that veteran status nonsense has got to be coming from people who've never served!

Response by SGT Tiik Taaka made Jan 21 at 2021 8:45 AM

2021-01-21T08:45:27-05:00

PO1PO1 William "Chip" Nagel said it best. However, since this keyboard is so close to my fingertips, let me open and close this topic, please.
My brother and I served together during a hot war. Neither of us saw combat. Both of us supported combat units from a desktop thousands of miles away. War is hell enough, we don't need to sift through political rhetoric to decide who gets the medal...I don't take the term Veteran lightly. I earned my status, my stripes, and the feeling in my heart that I served my country the way they intended me to.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2021 1:59 AM

2021-01-25T01:59:13-05:00

Absolutely. A veteran is a veteran. There were 1 month training missions here in the US (NTC, CAX) that were more painful than my last 9 month deployment to Afghanistan. Also the 1 month I spent in Yaechoen Air Base, South Korea for Foal Eagle 2003 almost drove me insane.

So just because someone hasn't been to the sand box doesn't mean they aren't a real veteran. Just maybe not a combat veteran.

Response by SFC Gary Harney made Jan 29 at 2021 12:49 PM

2021-01-29T12:49:00-05:00

It’s stupid ass questions like this, that makes me not come on this sight very much. This is a turd question. Yes I said turd. U don’t deserve to be called Sir. Asking something stupid like this makes me feel sorry for any troops that serve under you. I hope u have a really good NCO, because you are a turd. Do us all a favor and go to the latrine and try and figure out which three fingers on either your left or right hand you are going to be pissing on today and stop trying to sound intelligent with these stupid ass questions. TURD

Response by Sgt Dennis Doty made Feb 1 at 2021 12:27 AM

2021-02-01T00:27:58-05:00

I considered several responses to this question, most of which were either outrageous or certainly disrespectful. The best I can come up with is that the selectee asking this question needs to allow their butter bar to cook some more before they pin on the new ones.

Response by SrA Lawrence Baiocco made Feb 14 at 2021 1:54 PM

2021-02-14T13:54:56-05:00

I spent 4 years in the Air Force during the Vietnam era. I was sent to a security base in Italy not of my choosing but still supported the mission. I understand those who dodged bullets but I also serviced. I agree with Chip.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Mar 8 at 2021 7:22 AM

2021-03-08T07:22:29-05:00

Should veteran status be reserved for those who have deployed?

No, you go and serve where you are sent.

Response by MSgt Mayo Sifford made Mar 9 at 2021 5:35 AM

2021-03-09T05:35:25-05:00

You take the oath and wear the uniform and complete a term of service...you are a veteran. Perhaps not a war veteran but you do the time in uniform you have the right to call yourself a veteran!

Response by SFC Christopher Burns made Mar 12 at 2021 9:23 AM

2021-03-12T09:23:33-05:00

Anyone who signed that dotted line and served honorably regardless of their role is a veteran

Response by SFC John La Rue made Mar 14 at 2021 5:28 PM

2021-03-14T17:28:06-04:00

I signed up, I served for 20 Yrs before I was forced out on a medical.
I was always ready and willing to deploy but my unit wasn't activated.
Why should my service be counted for less than that.

Response by LTC Michael Parker made Mar 21 at 2021 11:35 AM

2021-03-21T11:35:23-04:00

Veteran benefits come in all shapes, sizes and qualifications. A reserve soldier who gets a line of duty injury on his first day of active duty for training, requiring separation from service, is entitled to both DoD and VA benefits. My dad served for 10 years in the NG but never served non training active duty. His VA benefits were very limited.

Response by SSgt Paul Millard made Mar 23 at 2021 9:05 AM

2021-03-23T09:05:30-04:00

Answer your self after reading: As a member of the 6594th Test group, none of which deployed to warzone, on January 15 1985 one of our HH-53s, call sign Arris 01, crashed while attempting a shipboard rescue mission 544 miles northwest of Honolulu. The USAF test group, not the Coast Guard responded because of the distance and capabilities. All seven crew members were killed: Pilots Capt. David D. Mason, Capt. Steve Pindzola, 2Lt. Russell Ohl. Flight Engineers SSgt Kyle D. Marshall, SSgt Daniel R. Reihman. Pararescuemen SSgt John R. Gilbert, Sgt Robert A. Jermyn. The helicopter crashed when a main rotor blade broke creating an imbalance in the aircraft which caused the tail to break off while the helicopter hovered above the commercial ship, "Asian Beauty." Captain Mason had been married only a few days and returned early from his honeymoon to volunteer for the flight.

Veterans or Not?

Response by CPT Keith Celebrezze made Mar 23 at 2021 11:03 AM

2021-03-23T11:03:12-04:00

No. Those people are called combat veterans.

Response by LTC John Wilson made Mar 23 at 2021 12:35 PM

2021-03-23T12:35:08-04:00

No. Not everyone who serves honorably -- part time or full time -- will be deployed, but honorable service confers the status of "Veteran."

Response by MSG Gregg Clement made Mar 26 at 2021 2:49 PM

2021-03-26T14:49:23-04:00

I am the adjutant for our local American Legion Post.
So I am the 1SG (I reckon) LOL.
The American Legion has lowered their entrance standards so that virtually anyone who could have completed basic combat training and has other than a dishonorable discharge can join the American Legion.
For a VFW membership, you have to be played 30 days, as I recall

Response by SPC Anitra Bailey-Bearfield made Mar 28 at 2021 12:00 PM

2021-03-28T12:00:20-04:00

If you served 180 on active duty is what qualifies you as a veteran according to dod standards
To be a veteran, a service member must have:

—        180 days of consecutive active duty (not counting training)

—        Or one day in a combat zone: served on Active Duty during a period of war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge was authorized.

—        Served in the National Guard or Reserve for 20 years and retired under honorable conditions. (passed 2016)
and all veterans who served honorably do not get honorable discharges, I know combat veterans who had issues who did not receive honorable discharges but are still veterans because regardless they still put on that uniform and served and might of had issues with their chain of command, had ptsd issues, you never know what is going on with a person. I have high respect for combat veterans but I respect all those that have served and still serve. Thank you all for your service.

Response by PO2 Paul Dempsey made Apr 6 at 2021 9:57 AM

2021-04-06T09:57:15-04:00

All veterans are deployed from there home. Whether to Alabama to Germany to all ships and boats at sea. We don't get a choice at times. We however go wherever ordered. Unless you go AWOL you're a veteran and even than unless you get a dishonorable discharge your still have status

Response by PO2 Dax Hall made Apr 7 at 2021 2:39 PM

2021-04-07T14:39:41-04:00

Some of the best people I served with never left stateside while some of the biggest Douch Bags I deployed with so no it shouldn’t be a criteria. That being said I think I should be a criteria hat you completed 4 years Honorably or have a service connected disability to hat forced you out.

Response by PO2 Leo Fredette made Apr 9 at 2021 1:31 PM

2021-04-09T13:31:52-04:00

WTF, deployed why limit it there. It has to be to a War Zone, and you need to be wounded, twice. Then we add a minimum time like 35 years to claim " Veteran ", where does it stop?
I know a guy ( use to work with him ) who always bragged about being a Marine, now getting 100% disability. After a few beers he would brag how he was a Marine for less than 10 days. That included a day in the hospital ( his knee ), and 1 to do paperwork for his discharge. He work for the state for over the last 20 years. Hurt himself on the job ( his back ), and is getting 100% disability from them.
Am I happy that some how he worked the system nearly 45 years after his discharge. No, no, no. But that's a failure on the system, or due to a slick lawyer.
I served for nearly 10 years. Your suggesting requirements ( after the Fact ) aren't worth talking about.

Response by CMSgt David Bridge made Apr 10 at 2021 5:29 PM

2021-04-10T17:29:12-04:00

No - even though I deployed several times, serving is serving.

Response by SGT Dave Gillespie made Apr 10 at 2021 6:41 PM

2021-04-10T18:41:11-04:00

We are all dumber now having read that question. To insinuate that one is not deserving of that title because they simply didn’t deploy would leave the majority of living “people who served” out of having the honor of the title that defines the fact hat they said “I’ll do it!!” When most don’t. Next question.

Response by MSgt Allen Chandler made May 2 at 2021 3:16 PM

2021-05-02T15:16:37-04:00

There are three definitions of the word veteran. The legal one. You signed up you served you got a discharge your a veteran. Generally accepted one, you’re signed up you lived up to your contract wehn you. Got out you lived up to the contacts and standards that we think of when we say the American military. The arrogant one. I’m at Frontline soldier and if you’re not Frontline soldiers then you’re not as neat and important as me. I am a fighter pilot and I do the job everybody else is support. My answer to these are bullshit. If you’re not a Navy seal that also has a green beret and Air Force special operations badge, +1000 hours of combat flight then shut up. When I was on flight status I loaded the guns and the pilot pulled the trigger neither of us could’ve done it without the other when I was on the ground I was a mechanic and I made the best plane available to each crew that came to me for one. When I was asssign to a Marine unit as an Air Force enlisted man I did my best to try and keep up with these guys they respected me for it and excepted me for it. I didn’t try and do anything beyond my abilities, and they excepted my abilities and make the best use of them.

Response by SPC Bob Herd made May 6 at 2021 6:56 PM

2021-05-06T18:56:56-04:00

During the Cuban missile crisis my Infantry Company was sent to perimeter defense of an Alaskan missile site. It was a warm 6 degrees outside. We locked and loaded, locked in our machine guns and spent 5 days waiting for the Russian parachutes to fall. Ready for combat in every way.

Response by SPC Bob Herd made May 6 at 2021 7:02 PM

2021-05-06T19:02:10-04:00

When our Destroyer shot across the bow of a Russian Freighter we were deployed to defend an Alaskan Missile site. It was 6 degrees out and we spent 5 days with our machine guns locked and loaded waiting for the Russian parachutes to start falling.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2021 9:01 PM

2021-05-06T21:01:01-04:00

All candidates for United States military service are veterans. The OATH OF SERVICE declares the status as veteran as long as you have served our Nation. We gave our oath without condition to serve and protect our fellow citizens, those in authority over us, the Constitution and the President of the United States.
I served as a US Air National Guardsman for eight years. Most of that time was spent as a "full time airman" training recruits to posses a military skill set with which the officers and airman would be ready for "call up" should they be needed. As a First Sergeant and for a time as the Sergeant Major of a Group with four squadrons and two flights made up of about 1,000 men my overview of responsibility was to be part of the team preparing our Group to be Operationally Ready should we be called upon by our Commander and Chief (THE PRESIDENT). [It was our privilege to perform at a readiness level above that of our Air Force counterparts each summer during the "active duty" unit training deployment.]

Response by SGT Jason Anderson made May 7 at 2021 3:18 PM

2021-05-07T15:18:01-04:00

Even not deployed- you were a number, among many others that never deployed, that kept others from attacking us.

You may have never left our soil, but your presence protected us from invasion.
Thanks, veteran.

Response by SPC George Edwards made May 10 at 2021 9:07 PM

2021-05-10T21:07:27-04:00

I enlisted in the Army reserves during my high school years and upon graduation, served six months for basic tng and the Armor School at Ft. Knox, Ky. That was during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In 1961, I enlisted in the Regular Army, went to Missile Equipment Repair school at Ft Belvoir, Va and then to Ft Bliss, Tx for Hawk tng after which I was sent to Germany and served on a Hawk missile site for two years. During that time, President Kennedy was killed and again, the world was on a war footing for a while. Prior to my deployment back to the States, I was given the re-up talk by my BC and volunteered to extend for a year to serve in Viet Nam. My BC told me to take my wife and new baby girl home. I've always considered myself a veteran. I served where I was sent and did my job to the best of my abilities.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made May 18 at 2021 11:28 AM

2021-05-18T11:28:17-04:00

veteran
[ˈvedərən, ˈvetrən]
NOUN
a person who has had long experience in a particular field.
synonyms:
retired soldier · old hand · old-timer · old stager · past master · doyen · authority · master · grandmaster · master hand · expert · virtuoso · maestro · pro · ace · [more]
a person who has served in the military.
"a veteran of two world wars"

As I understand the term Veterans would be your most experienced people. JMTC

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2021 2:25 PM

2021-05-20T14:25:48-04:00

Successful completion of one's statutory obligation qualifies for veteran status; regardless of component. Service overseas in support of/involved in any combat operation qualifies for overseas service or combat veteran status.

I see younger enlisted Soldiers feeling disenfranchised due to their not deploying- the fact that those Soldiers made it through MEPS, completed IET, and honorably completed their first contract is a statistical feat in and of itself.

Deployments don't make the Soldier- experience does. I've met plenty of Soldiers who deployed and don't know their craft; and I've also met Soldiers who haven't deployed and knew their MOS like the back of their hand. Do deployments change things? Absolutely. Does it make one not a veteran? No- just not a combat veteran.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2021 7:18 PM

2021-05-20T19:18:08-04:00

Once you give the DoD your ass, you know it can do whatever it wants with it. Whether or not it actually sends you somewhere is just a matter of chance.

Response by 1SG Ken Bedwell made May 23 at 2021 11:23 PM

2021-05-23T23:23:51-04:00

No. If you served honorably, you are a Veteran. Why is this even a question?

Response by CPO Jack De Merit made May 24 at 2021 3:11 AM

2021-05-24T03:11:28-04:00

ANYONE WHO SERVED IN THE MILITARY IS A VETERAN. It does not matter whether you were in combat or served chow for 4 years. I served in combat in Vietnam but there are no records anywhere to prove it. I also served for 28 years and 9 months in case you don't believe the served in combat. Either way, I am a Veteran.

Response by AB Fred Lembeck made May 28 at 2021 11:29 AM

2021-05-28T11:29:33-04:00

You become veteran when you take the oath, when you say okay from now on I'm Uncle Sam's to do with as he pleases. Then you call on the Lord to watch over you.

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made May 30 at 2021 1:18 PM

2021-05-30T13:18:14-04:00

Call me old school, call me jaded, call me other things. When I was on active duty we supposedly have Guard and Reserve forces working with us one weekend a month and two weeks out of the year. Sure they would show up on base, go to their squadron areas for roll call, administrivia, hair cuts, go to the BX, get new uniforms, update records, and so on. The end result is we NEVER saw them long enough to do any worthwhile training. When Desert Shield/Storm kicked off, we had a Guard squadron deploy to our location and found them to be less useful than a basic trainee right out of school.

Should they be called Veterans? I'm not sure I would even call them military. Sure they wore the clothes and display stripes, but the skill levels observed did not match the stripes on the sleeves. Veterans? Fortunately it's not up to me to make that call.

Response by 1SG Jimmy Bacon made Jun 12 at 2021 9:23 PM

2021-06-12T21:23:02-04:00

I spent almost 22 years in the Army. Spent time in numerous overseas areas like Vietnam, Turkey, Greece and Germany. I am a veteran and enjoy the comradeship of the VFW, American Legion and DAV. When you sign on the line, recite the oath and do your time, you are a veteran. God Bless all veterans!

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Jul 2 at 2021 2:18 PM

2021-07-02T14:18:44-04:00

What PO1 Chip Nagel said!

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Jul 9 at 2021 12:16 AM

2021-07-09T00:16:17-04:00

Are the people who ask these stupid ass questions actually vets themselves? Where do they come up with these asinine questions? Just trying to start trouble or a biden hiney licker??? I spent four years and three months in the Air Force and while I didn't deploy to a combat zone I did deploy to an area where I saw sixty degrees below zero...and yes, I'm well aware of the difference in life risk as I am now in my thirty first year being a fireman and every day can be life threatening. The difference is that the fire is not actively trying to kill you, it simply doesn't care...you're fuel. I'm NOT a VN vet...I could have been but the powers didn't need me there apparently.

Response by SGT Mike Ok made Jul 9 at 2021 10:04 AM

2021-07-09T10:04:18-04:00

No! You can sign up to see action but you are assigned wherever the military needs you

Response by SGT Mike Ok made Jul 9 at 2021 10:06 AM

2021-07-09T10:06:12-04:00

No. You can sign up to see action but you are assigned where ever the military needs you. I volunteered with my Naval team to go to Iraq, the military chose me to go to SK instead due to my skill set.

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Jul 9 at 2021 7:22 PM

2021-07-09T19:22:11-04:00

All who served HONORABLY are Vets. Basic Training Recruits are called "SOLDIERS" if they unfortunately die during basic training.

Thank You ALL for your service, deployment or not.

Response by SFC Randy Hellenbrand made Jul 10 at 2021 2:12 PM

2021-07-10T14:12:59-04:00

We gave our time to our country. All are vets who did that.

Response by PO3 Aaron Hassay made Jul 10 at 2021 2:39 PM

2021-07-10T14:39:57-04:00

Read the Total Force Doctrine.

Reserves going back to the 1990’s have been pulling active duty in all aspects less then even 30 day orders then sent home, to replace or support active duty. On again off again until you are done with your obligation 8 year enlistment.did. And if you dont get enough continuous active duty days 2 years you will not get veteran recognition as a veteran for veteran purposes, in warning letters, and stoppages of service all together at the VET CENTER and VA HOSPITAL. You can look at the Active Duty Ships I was assigned for years, but kept in a reserve package, on my profile, with one of this most demanding hardest toughest roughest dangerous jobs historically in the global history of the navy

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made Jul 10 at 2021 4:29 PM

2021-07-10T16:29:07-04:00

Your "peers and soldiers" are idiots!
A Veteran is anyone who served in ANY of the US Armed Forces at ANY time, in ANY place they were sent. In that group are "Combat" Veterans and "Peacetime" Veterans, but they were all built to the same standards to perform the same job; Cosmic Timing is the only variable.

Response by LCpl Kenneth Heath made Jul 10 at 2021 4:30 PM

2021-07-10T16:30:49-04:00

Response by CW5 Steve Kohn made Jul 10 at 2021 8:08 PM

2021-07-10T20:08:02-04:00

Yes, it should. Stateside service is basically a civilian job.
I'd also allow no disability rating unless the injury received a Purple Heart. We've all seen too many examples of bogus "disability."

Response by SFC Terry Bryant made Jul 11 at 2021 12:51 PM

2021-07-11T12:51:56-04:00

I am a 32 year Veteran with multiple deployments. In my years of Service I have seen many many deaths of our Military brothers and sisters during TRAINING. While we always do our best to mitigate the dangers of training we also have to train as we fight and that introduces an element danger that can be difficult but certainly not impossible to mitigate. Military personnel in all branches are often subjected too brutal and dangerous jobs even while not deployed. Aviators for instance fly thousands of hours in TRAINING for their entire careers. The dangers of flying does not lessen because they are flying at home as opposed to flying in combat. Although combat, as with any military duty does add an increased element of danger.

So in my estimation based on over 3 decades of service I would say most certainly ANY member whether they worked in supply or special operations deserves the distinction of being a veteran no matter if they deployed. Although you also have to understand that those who do and did deploy get a separate distinction as a combat Veteran as opposed to a garrison Veteran. It is a distinction that is well deserved as well. From the day you donated your life to the Military, you were one order from being sent to combat. Makes no difference that you didn't go either.

Response by COL Carl Jensen made Jul 11 at 2021 1:03 PM

2021-07-11T13:03:39-04:00

I believe if you served over 180 days in the Active duty Army you are considered a Veteran. I remember when Nixon was President, he gave the National Guard enlistee a year off their obligation. That may have been done for a reason, because of the Federal call ups for the USPS strike. It squeezed the ARNG and RES, too close to the 180+ day for GI benefits. Too many things to remember from too many years ago. I was a veteran when I joined the guard.

Response by LTC Ken Connolly made Jul 11 at 2021 3:24 PM

2021-07-11T15:24:22-04:00

Deployed to where? Hawaii, Alaska both are OCONUS deployments. If you receive an honorable discharge, you more than likely gave up some of the best years of your life to serve the country and therefore deserve Veteran status.

Response by SFC Kenneth Goins made Jul 11 at 2021 5:21 PM

2021-07-11T17:21:20-04:00

I have said it before and i'll say it again; this forum is a great tool to share knowledge and experience. It's a great place for young military members to ask questions and experienced service members can provide answers and share knowledge and experiences to answer those questions.

However; many times when I receive a notification in my inbox about a new subject from Rally Point, it's a question or statement that can be easily answered by researching regulations or simply asking your Chain of Command or your NCO Support Channel. In the amount of time it takes to type out your question, publish it, and wait for responses, you could have received the answer, performed physical training, PMCSed your equipment, deployed and redeployed.

Many of the questions presented on Rally Point seem to have ulterior motives. Are the question writers asking a valid question or trying to stir the pot and create unneeded drama within the ranks?

This question, for example; appears to have the potential of dividing those that have served in a combat zone and those who have not served in a combat zone. The question seems to degrade those military members that have not served in a combat zone.

This is just an example of the questions I have seen on Rally Point where service members want to appear better than others. Lately, I've noticed this trend in all military branches. There is an internal struggle between military members to one up your brothers and sisters in arms.

Instead of wanting to shine the spotlight on ourselves and appear better than others, we should all be striving for team excellence, not individual excellence. Of course we want to improve ourselves, but we cannot destroy others in the process of making ourselves look good.

The requirements to be a veteran have already been outlined by the appropriate authorities; personal opinions cannot change those requirements.

The writer of this article already knew the answer to their question just like many others on Rally Point. I would like to see Rally Point used as a tool for which it was designed; not a place to stir up shit within the ranks and seek personal gratification.

I was always told there's no such thing as a stupid question; however, I can honestly disagree. There are plenty of stupid ass questions on this forum.

Response by CPL Cadrew Strickland made Jul 11 at 2021 5:32 PM

2021-07-11T17:32:39-04:00

If you serve and was discharge with a honorable discharge and serve more than,(I think 120 days) you are a vet. While you are serving there is always a chance you may be deployed. You are there ready to defend your country. If the military doesn’t give you orders to deploy that is no fault of the soldier.

Response by SGT Tim Tobin made Jul 11 at 2021 6:17 PM

2021-07-11T18:17:40-04:00

I was and I am Doc. I never deployed in a combat zone but I served all the troops that came under my care. People seem to forget the "war machine" depends on thousands of troops to help complete the mission. My war time buddies were at the tip of the spear but everyone else made up the spear!!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2021 11:44 AM

2021-07-12T11:44:12-04:00

No : because a “deployment” to Qatar or Djibouti isn’t much different then getting sent to Drum or Irwin. Probably safer too .

Response by PO1 Ernie Johnson made Jul 12 at 2021 12:03 PM

2021-07-12T12:03:31-04:00

Personally I am getting a little tired of seeing this come up in some form or another. Why are people constantly trying to cause dissension in the ranks and among the members. That rear guy is not protected if not for the front line guy, and that front line guy can’t do his job without the support and supplies from the rear guy. Stop making this about “I” and realize it took a whole lot more than “you” to complete the mission. All of those were Veterans.

Response by SMSgt Robin Wright made Jul 12 at 2021 1:13 PM

2021-07-12T13:13:08-04:00

Whether deployed or not, if any conflict was going on during a person's time in service, they were either actively engaged in deployment or actively engaged in support on the home front. They were also prepared to deploy at any time. But in my humble opinion, deployment has nothing to do with the fact that anyone who served for any amount of time is a veteran, period.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Jul 12 at 2021 3:57 PM

2021-07-12T15:57:10-04:00

If you were sworn in and vowed that you would protect our country against all enemies both foreign and domestic then you are a Veteran.

A combat veteran is generally one who has a military record indicating they received Hostile Fire Pay, or were deployed to and served in a combat zone.

I believe the original period was 180 days sustained in the Combat Zone. The individual had to be serving in an Infantry Unit and he or she had to be an 11B

Bottom line is you are all Veterans!

Response by MSG Brenda Neal made Jul 12 at 2021 4:26 PM

2021-07-12T16:26:59-04:00

Absolutely it should come into question! I think a valid disability status from Active duty or reserve while on active duty should be imperative. Anyone deployed to a combat zone should have full veteran status. I had a guy in a VA group that had 0 disability, no deployment, admitted taking drugs and stated he made more money coming to the VA than working. At that time travel pay was outrageous. The further you lived the more you made to get all the benefits your "entitled" to. Hate that word. Isn't there a minimum amount of time to serve to get veteran status? It's one thing to be proud of veteran status, another to abuse it. To get medical help the highest disability rating is said to have highest priority. Get your appointment canceled and you get bumped to the next available date. Clerks should have that right in front of them to bump 0 percent. Combat veterans records tagged right next to their name. It matters and it takes effort to make it happen.

Response by CW3 Joseph Lawrence made Jul 12 at 2021 4:43 PM

2021-07-12T16:43:08-04:00

After being discharged from the Army, I jointed the National Guard and had the displeasure of having to be in the presence of those individuals whose status in the community were able to obtain a position in the Guard in order to avoid being drafted and sent to Vietnam. Most of them couldn't hold a candle to the Guardsmen of today, who have deployed several times to combat zones or in support of combat troops. These men and women had to leave their civilian jobs and family for sometimes over a year. If they didn't participate in combat, they are still veterans in my eyes as their dedication to duty and their country was constant. Fate sometimes will intervene and even though some of them never entered the combat zone they were willing to do so. Consequently, if you raise your right hand and put that uniform on you are a veteran. I was in supply when the draft was terminated and so many of those so called dodgers would say to me that they would live to see our unit disbanded. It didn't and the reserve components are now a valuable component of the active force. Why shouldn't they be called veterans.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2021 4:53 PM

2021-07-12T16:53:41-04:00

Do you strip veteran status from all who served but did not deploy during the time the US defeated USSR? NO. All who serve deserve to be called veteran. All have given some.

Response by SP5 Floyd Raff made Jul 12 at 2021 8:53 PM

2021-07-12T20:53:13-04:00

Response by SPC Patrick McKeon made Jul 13 at 2021 11:31 AM

2021-07-13T11:31:53-04:00

Is this a serious question?

So someone that does 4 years active duty the. 4 years in reserve, but never goes on a deployment or outside ConUS is not a veteran?

Response by LTC Armor Brown made Jul 13 at 2021 2:37 PM

2021-07-13T14:37:42-04:00

What many Soldiers, Civilians, and the rest of you don't realize is that the Army keeps churning 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are multiple hot spots or soon to be hotspots that intelligence didn't see coming. So whoever was there put on their gear and did what had to be done because they were a Soldier and responded to their call to duty. There are many other MOSs that do their duty every day without a shot being fired at them but they face danger because of their job. Thank God to the medical personnel, admin personnel and cooks who provide sustenance every damn day. Every single Soldier does his part of keeping the Army Strong. When it comes to for patrol, the first people I looked at were my medics, commo people and then the other Soldiers who carried rifles. As I put out my opord I knew the hours of planning and worry that went on at the TOC and I knew they had put their heart and soul into the order. So can we please stop with the BS, its like sayiing a policeman cannot retire unless they shot or were shot on duty.

Response by Sgt Donald Daugherty made Jul 13 at 2021 3:28 PM

2021-07-13T15:28:43-04:00

You are either in the pool or you are not..... This site has been stuck on stupid for far too long.
I have buddies in the guard that have been deployed twenty or more times... and know an ARMY recruiter that that did twenty years active, never went over seas, never deployed, and got out with full PTSD???
They are all veterans.... some IMO are hero's, and some are ZEROS!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2021 5:02 PM

2021-07-13T17:02:51-04:00

ARNG RC seem to be worried about this more than anyone. People ask me all the time. Hoot why do you do it? You some kind of war junkie? I don't even respond to them, they don't understand that it's about the free grand slam once a year at Denny's.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 13 at 2021 5:44 PM

2021-07-13T17:44:11-04:00

When did this site become such a breeding ground for internet trolls?

Such a stupid question. You’re just trying to provoke an argument.

Response by SPC Edward Abney made Jul 13 at 2021 7:16 PM

2021-07-13T19:16:08-04:00

WTF! If you served, you are a Veteran.

Response by SGT Kasey Zagorski made Jul 13 at 2021 11:30 PM

2021-07-13T23:30:01-04:00

They are still vets. They just are not combat vets.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2021 8:41 AM

2021-07-14T08:41:09-04:00

Officially, yes. But...
For those of us (including me) who have served in a Reserve capacity and have never been called to deploy into combat, I recommend being discreet about it and not go around flaunting "I served so I need special treatment." I don't mean don't be moto. I'm a Marine, and you can see it a mile away on my truck. I'm talking about how we carry ourselves and refer to our service time. Our brothers and sisters who have gone down range generally don't flaunt that either, but they've seen stuff and experienced stuff a lot of us haven't and bring back insights of which many of us only have a theoretical understanding.
Bottom line, everyone just needs to do their part, focus on learning and performing their jobs and roles to the best of their ability, training their subordinates to give them the tools and mindset that will keep them alive and accomplish the mission should they deploy. At the end of the day, it's not about us as individuals. It's about making sure our Marines, Sailors, Soldiers, and Airmen are effectively trained and equipped to take the fight to the enemies of our nation.

Response by MSgt Thomas O'Rourke made Jul 14 at 2021 9:46 AM

2021-07-14T09:46:46-04:00

While I respect and salute all Honorable service, we have to recognize that many ANG and ARNG units were heavily tasked with deployments from 2004 -2010. MOS fields such as Security Forces, C130 crews, and Civil Engineering (my MOS) had to meet a very rigorous operating tempo and this should be noted for the record.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2021 11:34 AM

2021-07-14T11:34:19-04:00

You wore the uniform honorably and did what you were told. You’re a vet.

Response by SGT Gary Stemen made Jul 15 at 2021 8:23 AM

2021-07-15T08:23:30-04:00

It comes down to the luck of the draw... My unit was on standby status more than once, and
I was on orders for deployment which were rescinded prior to our unit deployment to Vietnam.... People forget that any military personnel are at the beck and call of the needs of the country....

Response by MSgt Kevin George made Jul 15 at 2021 11:38 AM

2021-07-15T11:38:36-04:00

I served 21 years in USAF and never deployed. Never had an opportunity. I served mostly during the Cold War (which means No war). For those who remember SAC, the motto says it all: Peace is our profession. And we did it....until the Gulf War broke out. But we deterred the Russian aggression. That took a lot of effort. I served during wartimes and served in Germany and S.Korea. Im a retiree and im a Vet. No question. Today everyone wants a different label to distinguish from everyone else. Get over it! You serve, you're a Vet.

Response by SGT Walter Drumm made Jul 15 at 2021 12:35 PM

2021-07-15T12:35:37-04:00

I think it's useful to consider how vital those who serve in mission and branch support assignments or even in rear detachment for deployed units are to those who are downrange. The machine doesn't run without gas or grease, and those who support those who do deploy are no less valuable to the mission.

Response by CSM J.B. Shoopman made Jul 15 at 2021 2:02 PM

2021-07-15T14:02:24-04:00

Veteran if you signed the commitment papers; combat veteran if you deployed. Easy enough!

Response by SSgt Doug LeKander made Jul 15 at 2021 4:18 PM

2021-07-15T16:18:36-04:00

This is by far the dumbest fucking question I have heard for some time! To even entertain such a thought is a grievous offense!

Response by MAJ Mike Middleton made Jul 15 at 2021 4:47 PM

2021-07-15T16:47:12-04:00

Has to be one of the dumbest questions that I have seen.

Response by SPC David Elzinga made Jul 15 at 2021 5:50 PM

2021-07-15T17:50:32-04:00

You raised your right hand, even in the National Guard there is a chance to deploy, deployed or not your still a veteran

Response by SFC Bill Mace made Jul 16 at 2021 11:34 AM

2021-07-16T11:34:55-04:00

Find something real to complain about. How about people that get a combat patch for a one day "deployment" for a reenlistment ceremony?

Response by PO1 Paul Vernon made Jul 16 at 2021 12:49 PM

2021-07-16T12:49:53-04:00

The ones I don’t consider Veterans are those who got med boarded out in boot camp, but now collect VA benefits. Those aren’t vets. If you did zero deployments, fine you got lucky. You still served

Response by SPC Karl Jungel made Jul 16 at 2021 2:17 PM

2021-07-16T14:17:32-04:00

I was in the Army, straight out of high school, and was in the 'nam six months later. Can say, for me, ANYONE WHO SERVED, DEPLOYED OR NOT, IS A US VETERAN, AND, AS SUCH, DESERVES ALL THE ACOLLADES AND GRATITUDE THAT COME WITH THAT TITLE.......PERIOD!!!!!!

Response by CPL Larry Garrett made Jul 16 at 2021 3:24 PM

2021-07-16T15:24:53-04:00

I did deploy when I was active duty as a Light Infantry soldier, 2/27 Wolfhounds with 7th ID at Fort Ord. That being said, I do not believe that a person who signed up for the military, went through basic and AIT should be punished for non-deployment by not allowing them they same benefits as those who deploy. None of us signed up being guaranteed a deployment (with maybe the exception of the worst parts of the middle east). Don't penalize a person for signing up for the same possibilities as those who actually deployed. It could have been them going just as easily as it was us. Besides, those who deploy are already identified through Campaign ribbons/medals or badges and attachments like mine (CIB w/bronze arrowhead attachment for amphibious assault on the city of Colon, Panama). Let us inspire unity of soldierhood...not brotherhood or sisterhood as those can be construed as exclusionary...and not impose more divisiveness than already exists these days. Just my opinion.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2021 5:46 PM

2021-07-16T17:46:35-04:00

Yes! I think if you served in the military honorably, no matter what status, deployed or not, you can and should be able to say you are veteran. The ANG is performs 33% of AD missions. I’m sure the reserves or ARNG can put up similar numbers. We are more blended in missions now than we have ever been as a military. V/r, SMSgt Reyes

Response by PO2 Chad Thompson-Smith made Jul 17 at 2021 2:03 PM

2021-07-17T14:03:56-04:00

Veteran is a veteran doesn’t matter if you were a navy seal or mess cook...same no difference at all regardless what’s anyone says...

Response by MAJ William Smith made Jul 18 at 2021 7:34 AM

2021-07-18T07:34:28-04:00

I spent 23 years in ARNG infantry. I started as a PFC and ended as a MAJ. One of my battle buddies died in a training accident in IET. I was ready and committed to deployment the whole time. I missed the usual family events and opportunities. When the time came in 2002, my wife became ill and I missed my deployment. My unit had several casualties and 6 KIA. I carry some complex feelings about not being there but my friends are supportive because they know why. The government tells me that I am not a veteran, but my nephew who spent six years on Active Duty in New Mexico is. Hmmm.

Response by CH (CPT) Jerry McGowin made Jul 18 at 2021 4:59 PM

2021-07-18T16:59:45-04:00

NO. They were willing. I have been deployed but if you signed up to go, and served honorably, You are a vet.

Response by SSG Mark Tsunokai made Jul 18 at 2021 6:20 PM

2021-07-18T18:20:15-04:00

No. Go where you are needed the most. Lots of military personnel didn't get deployed. Not their fault. However, I have the upmost contempt for those that purposely dodged it. My former BC now a one star, said your advancement was partially dependent on whether you were deployed or not. A big factor in his mind.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2021 12:41 AM

2021-07-19T00:41:19-04:00

Abslutely not!!!

Response by CPT Thomas Monahan made Jul 19 at 2021 6:52 AM

2021-07-19T06:52:49-04:00

So all the Cold War personnel in Korea and Europe who were at the ready for decades aren’t Vets? Navy, Marine and Air Force members who were shot at during peace time or just doing routine patrols to show force aren’t Vets? Someone who was tasked to higher headquarters or as a drone operator and stayed In CONUS isn’t a Vet? We did not pick when to serve or where we we were sent. We all signed the blank check and to go where we were needed.

Response by Cpl Sammy Garbow made Jul 19 at 2021 11:00 AM

2021-07-19T11:00:25-04:00

If they served in any Armed Forces for any length of time, they are Veterans !!

Response by SSG James Stodola made Jul 19 at 2021 11:08 AM

2021-07-19T11:08:25-04:00

The lack of a deployment does not make one any less of a Veteran. The person who got deployed signed on the dotted line, took an oath, and made themselves available worldwide for whatever was needed. Newsflash, so did the guy / gal who sits at a desk all day, or slaves in the hot kitchen, or under dirty filthy vehicles, or the medic in their clean environments. It seems to me since I have been on here that there sometimes seems to be an underlying tone to make non deployed members somehow feel less than those who were deployed, by sheer luck of the draw I might add. If this is the case then those who think this way are not contributing to the cohesive unit idea. WE are all here for the same thing, if you feel somehow superior to someone else who was not deployed then it is a problem you should deal with. We are the largest fraternity / sorority so to speak in the world, we are a team all with one goal in mind. The only difference a deployment would make is that one could then be considered a combat veteran, apples to oranges people. When it comes to a legal definition, all that means is someone in the vast government bowels of hell is someone who is going to make this determination, someone who has never served a day, has no idea of what the life is really about, and is nothing more than a basic tool. Sorry about the harshness of this, what turned into a rant but this question pisses me off big time.

Response by SFC Frederick Williams made Jul 20 at 2021 9:53 AM

2021-07-20T09:53:20-04:00

Yes

Response by MAJ Glenn Lasater made Jul 20 at 2021 2:48 PM

2021-07-20T14:48:48-04:00

Response by Cpl Gary Mosnik made Jul 20 at 2021 7:19 PM

2021-07-20T19:19:04-04:00

NO! We all gave the US a blank check,up to and including my life!

Response by SGM Tere Moore made Jul 22 at 2021 1:35 PM

2021-07-22T13:35:41-04:00

BLUF: There is a legal definition of a veteran which mandates a specific amount of days continuous active duty service. Last I knew it was 180 days, and that's from 2008. I say that because I think it changed after that. Put another way, it has nothing to do with being deployed but everything to do with any DD 214 a service member was issued. Anyone can Say they are a veteran-whenever I ask for a military or veteran discount I show my Army Retired ID card. FYI: my AD service was 5/29/1974 to 7/18/1982; Army Reserve from 7/1982 thru 6/2015. I was also a Recruiter in the 1980's and 42A HR NCO. For anyone who is still in a Reserve unit your HR NCO should be able to tell you what the exact number of continuous active duty days for veterans status is now. As a side note: active service during particular conflicts may make you eligible for reduced automobile registration fees. Here in NV, I should get a hefty discount beginning next Dec which will start my 2nd yr as a resident. Ask the County Assessor office in which your city of residence sits.

Response by MSG George McVay made Jul 23 at 2021 5:48 PM

2021-07-23T17:48:17-04:00

A veteran is anyone who served their country and successfully completed their service obligation. I myself never deployed, despite being in during thre wartime operations. I volunteered three time to serve in Desert Storm, but was denied all three time because my MOS was too critical in my current duty station. I retired honorably after 20 years service. So, yeah, I consider myself a veteran, as I consider all my fellow brothers and sisters veterans.

Response by TSgt Tonya Myers made Jul 23 at 2021 10:24 PM

2021-07-23T22:24:52-04:00

I say yes. I was an active duty armament systems specialist for 20 years. I did 2 assignments overseas, RoK and UK, and three 45-day deployments to southern Italy in support of expeditionary forces. During Desert Storm, my unit, myself included, did testing on weapons for the F-111 that ultimately were taken to Iraq and ruined Hussein's plan. Did I ever deploy to a front line? Not in active war. But Osan AB is a front line installation for the Air Force. It would be completely unfair to lose my veteran status, especially as I am a retiree.

Tonya S.

Response by Amn Velma Carson made Jul 23 at 2021 10:43 PM

2021-07-23T22:43:52-04:00

I chose to defend my country against any foreign or domestic threat. Just because the threat was on American soil doesn't negate the impact to the freedoms I chose to defend. I'm a veteran of serving my country from all who would take those freedoms from the people I defend. I never stepped down from my oath even when my time in uniform ended. I suppose you could stop being a veteran when you become the threat. Since I continue to serve my country as a veteran, I'll continue to honor the oath I took.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Jul 24 at 2021 9:32 PM

2021-07-24T21:32:36-04:00

No.
One step up from 2lt.

Response by SSgt Paul Millard made Aug 5 at 2021 6:40 PM

2021-08-05T18:40:46-04:00

Most idiotic question ever!

Response by SPC Paul LaBelle made Aug 6 at 2021 3:24 PM

2021-08-06T15:24:00-04:00

What’s next if you’re not a grunt you’re not a vet? I take it back there is such a thing as a stupid question.

Response by CPT William Jones made Sep 13 at 2021 9:14 AM

2021-09-13T09:14:17-04:00

This word deployed seem to have gained or lost part of its defination in the modern times. some now think deployed means sent to a hostile fire zone. This is incorrect. Deployed is being sent outside the bounries of the USA anywhere.Now there are fun/nice deployments and ones where you might get shot at. I spent about 4 years deployed in the late 60-early 70's. It was all consecutive included 32 months in RVN and the rest Germany and transite leave.Then a couple years split apart in CONUS Ft Hood.

Response by Brad Miller made Sep 17 at 2021 4:49 PM

2021-09-17T16:49:52-04:00

You stood up to be counted. That is what should count. If you didn't get sent, that isn't your fault (assuming you weren't trying to not get sent).

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made Nov 5 at 2021 12:39 AM

2021-11-05T00:39:04-04:00

No. You go where you're ordered. It's not a personal choice. You're a veteran because you served; not because of where you served.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Nov 8 at 2021 3:14 PM

2021-11-08T15:14:38-05:00

A veteran is a veteran is a veteran period! If you signed on that line giving the Government the ability to cash that check for up to and including your life at any time, then you are a veteran...the only time that title is stripped is when you are dishonorably discharged and you have disgraced the uniform.

Response by SGT Thomas Carter made Nov 14 at 2021 1:26 AM

2021-11-14T01:26:45-05:00

With regards to joining the VFW there is an exception to there policy and that is if you served in Korea during piece time you can still join as a full member because both Koreas are still at war with each other and they only have a cease fire not a piece treaty. I don't know if this is true for the Legionnaires.

Response by SFC Lynn Santosuosso made Nov 18 at 2021 12:46 PM

2021-11-18T12:46:37-05:00

Absolutely!! They signed the same blank check owing up to and including their life for their country! A person stateside not deployed whether they are in National Guard, reserve or active duty are working to learn the skills, to train, and be prepared for anything! No matter what the job is. No individual in the military is more important than any other, for every one soldier that goes forward in deployment there are 90 behind them who are supplying them, paying them, cooking for them and everything else. Everyone who serves! And by the way yes I deployed and I do not look down on anyone who did not because of their MOS, type of unit, or anything else.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2022 6:38 PM

2022-09-22T18:38:28-04:00

Nope. Veteran is a veteran.

Response by CW2 Victor Munoz made Mar 1 at 2023 6:20 PM

2023-03-01T18:20:31-05:00

Who comes up with stuff. In my book, if you raised your hands and sweared alligence to the flag and met the 180 days required to be eligible for benefits than you are a veteran.

Give me a break. What about someone like
who never fought with a unit but have 5 campaign medals for some untold wars. Their military records that show they never serve preclude them from being classified as a veteran. Please, if someone raised that right hand, in my book they were ready to deploy and that my friends is a VET.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 29 at 2023 9:44 PM

2023-06-29T21:44:45-04:00

I understand the way it is. The purpose of the years tax payor investment in our training is to answer that call when it happens. When it does, most have unprepared issues in their lives like family and job situations. I have seen some unavailable to move on to the deployment. Risk jail or tell commander they smoke pot.

Response by Sgt Charles Hays made Sep 11 at 2023 7:26 AM

2023-09-11T07:26:47-04:00

Remember that there are veterans that served between the Korean war and the Vietnam War. Would you refuse to recognize these cold war veterans that served between 1951 and 1962? The closest I came to a deployment was 90 day TDY to Guam while our B-47 was on Alert status.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Sep 15 at 2023 4:07 PM

2023-09-15T16:07:27-04:00

I've said this million time If you signed on the line raised your right hand and took that oath, You Are A VET. If you were deployed or statse side makes no difference. Deployed means nothing other that place. I used to love grunts saying they were the only real soilders! In the boonies humping with them with a ground surveillance radar on my back so I could work all night checking for unwanted contact. I was Artillery, so no CIB for me! Pilots, air crew, engineers, atry, medics nurses! We are VETs everyone of us!!! If you don't like, up yours!

Response by PFC Michael Boyd made Oct 5 at 2023 6:15 AM

2023-10-05T06:15:02-04:00

Maybe a differentiation as in Veteran-Combat Veteran but too much dividing might cause separation.

Response by CPT Larry Booth made Oct 5 at 2023 10:53 AM

2023-10-05T10:53:35-04:00

I served two tours in Vietnam and I have no problem with non-deployed soldiers, sailors, marines calling themselves "veterans." They served during a time of war and put themselves at risk of being deployed even though they never were. So, yeah, they are veterans.

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Oct 5 at 2023 2:09 PM

2023-10-05T14:09:25-04:00

What does "deployed" even mean? Seriously! We kick that term around as if it means something, but what does it really mean?

So far as I can tell, for most of the people using the term it just means whatever kind of assignment they had that they think someone else didn't.

The term has been popular in the Army ever since the ridiculous invention of the so-called Brigade Combat Team and the notion of rotating BCTs around as if they were all interchangeable map tokens where every map symbol with an X in the unit size position is exactly the same regardless of anything else.

I, for one, do not believe that every BCT is exactly equal -- and certainly don't think every time a BCT rotates away from its mythical "home station" is equally a "deployment"

And, of course, there are people who aren't in a BCT -- who may or may not be "deployed" as part of a BCT and who may or may not find themselves living and working with a BCT regardless of being assigned, attached, or whatever'ed.

How do we apply the term "deployed" in the other services? Is a sailor "deployed" every time their ship leaves port?

We can't even agree on what "combat" means - how are we going to agree on what "deployed" means?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2023 10:59 AM

2023-10-09T10:59:00-04:00

The rule is 6 yes in reserves or national guard with no combat deployment still qualifies as a veteran. I always wonder why people ask the internet instead of using it to.look up information

Response by SGT Andrew Mace made Oct 11 at 2023 11:53 AM

2023-10-11T11:53:42-04:00

What kind of stupid ass question is this. There are numerous veterans that served during the 80's and 90's that never deployed to a combat zone. There were only a handful of conflicts that the US Military go involved in during that time. I would be willing to bet that if you asked most Combat Vets the would have preferred to have never been deployed to combat vs suffering with the host of issues a lot of them suffer with since coming back!

Response by PFC Kathleen Woolrich made Oct 14 at 2023 6:44 AM

2023-10-14T06:44:07-04:00

This falls under the is that your category lol

Response by PFC Kathleen Woolrich made Oct 14 at 2023 6:48 AM

2023-10-14T06:48:36-04:00

Nevermind lol

Response by LCpl Michael Cappello made Nov 24 at 2023 7:20 PM

2023-11-24T19:20:23-05:00

It seems as if there are a few points of confusion here. Thank goodness there is NOT a map and a compass.
You seem to be confusing "Deployment" and Active Duty. First off, Active Duty will usually see "Deployment" before a "Reservist". Second of all, If You Serve. You are a VETERAN. Period Dot. How about those who did one or two Active enlistments and did not completely get out but, became reserviste? Better yet. How about the FACT that even after your hitch is up, you are still obligated to a couple of years INACTIVE RESERVE. I hope, if you are still in, that you learn to have ALL your facts/intel together, before you present your plan of attack. In old terms. It is better to be thought of as "Uninformed" than to open your lips and remove all doubt. With ALL due respect SIR.

Response by PO1 David Kingsley made Dec 10 at 2023 4:57 AM

2023-12-10T04:57:25-05:00

I have in my possession Two DD214 (one for Each Enlistment)
the title of the DD214 form is "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty"
I completed my time,
I have the paper to prove it,
the Narrative reason for separation is "Expiration of Term of Enlistment"
the Character of Service is listed as "Honorable"
I Qualify as a Veteran.
I only did ten years, so I don't get Retirement Benefits. Although I believe that I could get Meds and Glasses (possibly dental?) from the VA

Response by SrA Lawrence Baiocco made Dec 17 at 2023 7:34 PM

2023-12-17T19:34:34-05:00

Question keeps coming up and it’s Horseshit, period.

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Jan 7 at 2024 6:53 PM

2024-01-07T18:53:45-05:00

No.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2024 10:52 PM

2024-01-08T22:52:58-05:00

Response by SPC David Giffen made Jan 12 at 2024 10:56 PM

2024-01-12T22:56:41-05:00

No, and here's why. There are people in the rear that work hard so we can have the intelligence we need in the forward. We still need people in the rear to get us those "beans and bullets" so we can stay in the fight or the Class VI that keeps us sane.

Response by CDR Joel Paine made Jan 13 at 2024 12:08 PM

2024-01-13T12:08:50-05:00

They say there are no stupid questions, but there are always exceptions….

Response by MSG Michael Gay made Jan 15 at 2024 9:15 PM

2024-01-15T21:15:44-05:00

Not yet a Veteran. Signing and raising your right hand is signing a blank check and after finishing training you are subject to great risks. Do you job well and be a part of what defending our country.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2024 4:27 AM

2024-01-17T04:27:10-05:00

No.

Response by SGT Tim Tobin made Jan 20 at 2024 8:34 PM

2024-01-20T20:34:10-05:00

Can't we let this one go?? Asked and answered!

Response by MSG Neil Smith made Jan 27 at 2024 9:02 PM

2024-01-27T21:02:00-05:00

No it should not. For the very reasons you stated. We signed on the dotted line.

Response by 1SG John Millan made Feb 3 at 2024 11:49 PM

2024-02-03T23:49:00-05:00

No, we're all veterans

Response by AA Loreen Silvarahawk made Feb 11 at 2024 3:57 PM

2024-02-11T15:57:59-05:00

Everyone who signed their name on that paper, completed boot camp and went to their first duty station is a Veteran. One never knew when the call would go out for deployment - for some, it came and for others it did not. That person is still and always will be a VETERAN!!!

Response by SSG Scott Will made Feb 22 at 2024 2:11 AM

2024-02-22T02:11:11-05:00

I spent (according to my retirement orders) 40 years in the military, Army three years with two tours in Vietnam, and 38 years in the Air Force with a deployment for Desert Storm. The term Veteran applies to all who served in any capacity in the military. After Desert Storm I went reserve till I retired. It doesn’t matter what you did or how long you did it, you are willing to do whatever you need to do to keep our country safe. That’s a Veteran.

Response by Sgt Michael Clifford made Feb 28 at 2024 5:04 PM

2024-02-28T17:04:06-05:00

First you should check with the Veterans Administration to see what their description of a veteran is. As far as I am concernered everyone who signs the contract and raises their hand to take the oath and serves the minimum as defined by the VA is a veteran. When you volunteer you understand that while you may never lesve CONUS on a deployment you are available for anything that comes down from on high. Obviously if you recieve a less than honorable discharge you may forfeit that honor. If you have not been deployed to a war zone you probably would not be eligible for membership in the VFW.

Response by CPO Ira Fenstermacher made Mar 8 at 2024 6:28 AM

2024-03-08T06:28:55-05:00

I spent 24 years in the Navy. Seven of my nine duty stations were overseas (including forward deployed on an admiral's staff). The other two were on a carrier that made two Med cruises in the two years I was onboard and an admiral's staff deployed on a ship out of Hawaii. I was at a command that had three military attached, a command that had six military attached and a joint command that had 12 or 13 military attached. Some commands had no military privileges (commissary, housing, medical, etc). In the 24 years, I was in the States less than two years counting my leave time. If I am not a veteran, what am I?

Response by SSG Chris Gursky made Mar 22 at 2024 7:50 AM

2024-03-22T07:50:44-04:00

No offense but this seems like a dumb ass question. Anyone who raised their right hand and swore the oath and served their time is a veteran. If they personally don’t “feel” like a veteran it means they’re a veteran and a milch toast. Some of my best mentors in the service were Vietnam era vets who spent years in Germany and the only thing they knew about Nam were rhe names of their dead friends. Three of my favorite platoon sergeant’s were all combat vets from Vietnam, 3 guys = 8 years in country.

Response by BobbyO Brooks made Mar 22 at 2024 9:01 AM

2024-03-22T09:01:38-04:00

Yes! I am hear to help in anyway possible. No
Matter how many jobs in any categories, Ready Always

Response by SrA Cecelia Eareckson made Mar 22 at 2024 9:20 PM

2024-03-22T21:20:30-04:00

Regular AF here, 1976-80. Served two years RoK in socalled peacetime. Granted, media coverage was nothing like today, but apsrt from the ace murders at the DMZ, my friends in Red Horse were shot at. That’s why they carried the Army’s workload. That’s peacetime. You do not know who is subject to what hostilities, or when.

Response by PFC Timothy Mickler made Mar 23 at 2024 8:21 AM

2024-03-23T08:21:46-04:00

If you serve during peacetime, you still give up a lot in your personal life to do so. It's not a nine to five job. You have given yourself to the country to be a protector of it. A cop is still a cop just because he never shot someone. All who joined, volunteeered knowing they could possibly have to fight. That is something that should be recognized by your country.

Response by PO2 Steveon Williams made Mar 23 at 2024 9:49 PM

2024-03-23T21:49:10-04:00

It’s hard for me to feel any kind of way…. Although, at first, I thought this was a dumb question. Before 9/11, I was having a cold one at a VFW, It was explained to me that I already met the standards for membership with the VFW…. Something about expeditionary service…. Anyhow, here’s the way I see it: Anyone who wears the uniform, when they raised their hand, they gave our great nation a blank check. Of course, some of those people didn’t really know what they were getting themselves into, but that’s besides the point. It shouldn’t matter where or how you served. If you served, you served.

I wonder who came up with this question and if they deployed at any time.

Response by Cpl Joseph Ronda made Mar 23 at 2024 11:22 PM

2024-03-23T23:22:01-04:00

Veteran is defined as a person who has had long experience in a particular field.
Veteran fire fighter. Veteran law enforcement, military veteran.
Here is a better question. The military falls under 2 categories; federal military service and state military service. The National Guard falls under both. State guards replace National Guard in State Active Duty when the National Guard gets called for federal active duty. Should State Guards be considered veterans?

Response by SSgt Ron Simpson made Mar 24 at 2024 11:46 AM

2024-03-24T11:46:52-04:00

ANYONE who has served IS a Veteran. Period. End of discussion.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 24 at 2024 4:49 PM

2024-03-24T16:49:42-04:00

This should not even be questioned.

Response by SFC Domingo M. made Mar 24 at 2024 10:41 PM

2024-03-24T22:41:17-04:00

I was drafted in 1969, I went where they sent me and served for twenty years. There were certain things we were guaranteed then and I get them all. Looking back, I wouldn't have passed up the experience for anything. I am a member of the VFW after years of receiving invitations in the mail.

Response by PO1 Don Uhrig made Mar 25 at 2024 9:54 PM

2024-03-25T21:54:55-04:00

No individual volunteer in the armed forces has a definitive say on where they will be stationed. In my career path, I was on shore duty (Navy speak) for my first seven years. Had I left the Navy at that time, would I have been a "veteran"? ABSOLUTELY! The following years of my 20 total had me overseas for almost 50% of my career - to include combat action in Iraq. Any segment of that time made me, and any other volunteer, a veteran. Salutes to all veterans.

Response by PO3 Michael James made Mar 25 at 2024 11:05 PM

2024-03-25T23:05:46-04:00

Me again... entered the US Navy, I wanted to be a plumber (hopeful civilian job) They made me a radioman... Top Secret, Crypto, presidential eyes-only security clearance... Never put boots on the ground, however, several times I received screams for Medical Evacuations of our US Marines... (TET Offensive) Also requests from the 5th Mar Div... Mine was to relay support to get these guys HELP!!! Just one Hick-up in communications and many, many US Marines would have perished... It's a lot to try to deal with...American boys trying to live, trusting in me (and others) for help!!! I was also Exposed, cancers, sleep apnea, six heart attacks, kidney surgery, and lower back pains, for over a 53 Year period... I signed the line, I went and did what I was told, and PROUD of it!!! Thank You... Bless you, A Veteran...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2024 1:20 AM

2024-03-26T01:20:57-04:00

I'd say yes. You served a good honorable 4 years than you are a vet. As far as deploying... heck, Although I got multiple deployments in the Iraq/Afghan category. I faced more pain and hardship during a couple of 1 month training exercises than I did my last two combat deployments in Afghanistan.

Foal Eagle (South Korea) 2003 and NTC (Fort Irwin, CA) 2014 were brutal.

Response by SSG Jim Campbell made Mar 26 at 2024 7:21 PM

2024-03-26T19:21:47-04:00

Troll? Service = veteran.

Response by AN Ron Wright made Mar 26 at 2024 7:48 PM

2024-03-26T19:48:57-04:00

Any of us Who served and signed our lives away. ARE VETERANS. Where we served or how we served was NOT our call. We served where we were needed at our time of duty. Wherever the bullet was needing a slot

Response by SCPO Lonny Randolph made Mar 27 at 2024 4:44 PM

2024-03-27T16:44:02-04:00

You joined of your own free will, volunteered to put your arse on the line in defense of this Nation. Once to sign up you are no longer in charge of where you will go or what you will do. They also served to stand and wait. You are a veteran by any definition of the word. Thank you for your service Brother of the Cloth!

Response by PO2 John Lutz made Mar 28 at 2024 7:35 PM

2024-03-28T19:35:28-04:00

I believe that anyone who enlists in any branch of the armed forces and serves in uniform is a veteran. Deployments, combat experience and time on active duty all have their own specific forms of recognition that the veteran can wear and/or display.

I also believe though that military awards are a bit too narrowly-defined in some cases. For example, I served 3 1/2 consecutive years of sea duty, but do not qualify for the Sea Service ribbon because that time fell across two specified periods that qualify and the middle part doesn't count. Also, even though I was on active sea duty in the Pacific during the Vietnam war, on a ship that was actively deploying to Vietnam until just before I reported aboard, there is no form of recognition whatsoever for this. I am not considered a Vietnam vet, cannot wear that ribbon or medal, and can't join the VFW - only because I was never within a specific number of feet of Vietnamese territory. There should be some kind of recognition for vets who served active duty on a vessel of war in the theater of an active war.

In addition to that, my four years of active duty ended on a weekend, so I was told by my command that I could leave after I finished duty that Friday. Then they denied me the good conduct medal because 'you didn't serve four full years'.

So don't get me started on military awards.

Response by CSM Edward Litherland made Mar 30 at 2024 1:20 PM

2024-03-30T13:20:11-04:00

LT so what your saying is if a soldier serving in any compacity doesn't deploy to a combat zone they shouldn't be called a veteran? If that is the case then my 34 years in the USAR as a CSM are useless as t*ts on a bull. Thank God you're not in my unit as I would lock your heels up and have the CDR read you the riot act. Any soldier, sailor and marine who signed up and served is a veteran. I'm from the old school but I'll be nice LT get your head out of your mess kit.

Response by CPT David Tanner made Mar 31 at 2024 7:04 PM

2024-03-31T19:04:06-04:00

If you served in a war zone, then you are a combat veteran, but if you honorably served at least 180 days of active duty or it's equivalent or was badly injured (no fault of your own) during military training then you should be able to call yourself a veteran. I do not know what the actual regulation is anymore, but that is my opinion.

Response by SGT Daniel Myers made Apr 8 at 2024 12:42 AM

2024-04-08T00:42:52-04:00

NO! If you're a GI JOE, you're a veteran and you made some sort of contribution on behalf of your country. That makes you a UNITED STATES VETERAN

Response by SFC Larry Jones made Apr 12 at 2024 2:46 AM

2024-04-12T02:46:34-04:00

This question comes from someone with Vacuous Cranial Cavity Syndrome. Show me in AR 601-210 where a differentiation is made. I served my first nine years as a chaplains assistant, 3 of those in a combat support unit in Germany. I certainly didn't feel like a non soldier during that time. I spent the remainder of my career in Recruiting Command, a place I will boldly state here the average soldier could not thrive or survive. I almost didn't survive, as I was in a Line of Duty life threatening car wreck that began the complete ruin of my health. My DD 214 characterizes my service as "honorable" and enumerates to the day how much time I spent on active duty. My reenlistment code is RE-4, which means I can never return to duty. I am convinced that after 20+ years, even without combat, I am a veteran. Any arguments from anyone over the age of 40?