Who really is a Veteran?

CPT Richard Riley — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 18:25:10 -0500

I believe a veteran is …..

One who opposes war as a solution but values might when required to affect a solution.
One who values their life in relation to a cause important to their nation?
One who stands proudly to salute their flag as an icon of their nation and values they hold dear.
One whose humility stands out more often than others around them do.
These are the attributes of the Veteran…..

I say to a veteran, “Thank you and your family for your service & sacrifice, we owe you a debt to hear this from at least one person every day.” The reply so often received is - “No thanks necessary, it was my honor to serve.” It is their reply that reveals the spirit of the Veteran, an unofficial title of Honor and respect due to those who served for the true hero they are.

There are those in our society who chose to undermine and demean what a Veteran is, using the term to distinguish time in a job or as some title in a computer game for “experience earned.”
There are those in government whose political views oppose war and they therefore oppose all Veterans for the sake of politics, the Veteran a pawn in their game of thrones.
There are those in society who opposed a particular war at one time and continue to oppose its Veterans. These individuals interpose the noble reason of a government-imposed draft to justify supporting their nation's enemies and creating chaos within their own country as protected acts done under the guise of a statement of Freedom of Speech and Expression. Some people who, in the least of their actions, spit on our returning Veterans, in uniform, even while injured in a wheelchair.
There are those who hate & detest Veterans and may, in the course of their business or job, be it banking, insurance, a restaurant, etc., do heinous deeds on behalf of their hatred. Several misgivings include denying a loan, denying a policy or denying needed care

Yet in spite of all this, we encounter a true oxymoron “Veteran's Administration” to which the attribute “dysfunction” is, and has been, a most graceful understatement lasting for more than 60 years. The Veteran, who has faced death as a tool to be used or at the loss of a fellow Soldier more often than those who hate them, continues humbly to move through their life. Be it in a cardboard box, providing for their family now and in the future, or to assure a warm and healthy meal every day, the Veteran continues to “take that hill” and overtake all opposition as a matter of course, conviction, self-worth, and, most importantly, Honor.

Therein lies the source of the Veteran's heroism and humility, their Honor, an Honor to serve. Please, if you see or run into a Veteran, express a simple thank you for their service and sacrifice, show them you Honor their Honor that you appreciate the slice of their life they put forward on America's behalf, standing for your nation, irrespective of the outcome or the government's reason for war. These people served by choice but it is a contractual obligation that they cannot walk away from, or, they were drafted, the government assuming their life a “resource,” repugnant to the Veteran's very reason for fighting, “...endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life,...” Veterans deserve our heartfelt appreciation just because they are Veterans, the remaining American blood and Treasure of a group of Americans who continue to serve America with their Honor.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 6:34 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 18:34:26 -0500

Well said, CPT Richard Riley. If that's your original piece, I applaud you. Thank you for your service and for sharing that great essay.

Response by PO1 Aaron Baltosser made Nov 26 at 2014 12:50 PM

PO1 Aaron Baltosser — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 12:50:29 -0500

I would say a Veteran is one who has served their country honorably. What they believed would be irrelevant, and their actions would be key.

Response by SPC Chris Early made Jul 1 at 2015 9:41 PM

SPC Chris Early — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 21:41:50 -0400

Thank you for saying all that you did because that sums up everything. I trully enjoyed reading your statement and brings pride and joy to my heart because i feel edpecially being a bkack american and vet that im not appreciated thank you.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 3:21 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:21:03 -0400

lol actually I remember that lol I think they call "none qualifying veteran" .... or something like that ...

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Oct 30 at 2015 3:23 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:23:29 -0400

I have two of these meaning I personally defended this nation and her way of life TWICE, and was recognized by two presidents by being presented this award, so that basically makes me THE Hardcorest SuperVet this side of the Mississippi. EAT THAT Chuck Norris. SF ain't got sh*t on me.

Response by PFC Robert Falk made Oct 30 at 2015 3:24 PM

PFC Robert Falk — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:24:43 -0400

A Veteran

Whether active duty,retired,or national guard or reserve
is someone who, at one point in his or her life
wrote a blank check made payable to
The United States of America
for an amount of
up to and including my life
That is honor
there are way too many people in this country
who NO LONGER understand it

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 3:24 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:24:46 -0400

I define a Veteran as someone who honorably served their country.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 3:24 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:24:55 -0400

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. 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. 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 MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 3:26 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:26:32 -0400

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Oct 30 at 2015 3:28 PM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:28:38 -0400

Anyone that has SERVED (passed Basic and AIT) in any of the branches of the US Military. Now to throw a spin on the question. What is YOUR definition of a "Combat Veteran" ? Mine would be anyone that served in a Theater of Operation in the US Military.

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Oct 30 at 2015 3:29 PM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:29:13 -0400

Anyone who ever served, even if it were for one freaking day. That's a Veteran.

Response by MSG David Holmden made Oct 30 at 2015 3:32 PM

MSG David Holmden — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:32:46 -0400

I would qualify a Veteran as someone that has completed all necessary training to fulfill there contract. Now if they completed all training and was at there assigned duty station and was injured etc I would consider them a Vet. If they were injured during the basic phase of boot camp etc, no I wouldn't consider that person to be a vet, if they were hurt and discharged at boot camp etc yes DOD should give them benefits to cover that injury but that's it. But wouldn't be considered a Vet. IMO

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 3:32 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:32:47 -0400

In all technicality, anyone who's been to boot is a Veteran. I can't say I agree with it, and having been in for two years, I can't say I can fully appreciate being called a Veteran yet. I feel it should have to do with experience. I'm a Sailor on a shore command in Texas who's worked as a mechanic and a computer jockey. The most military thing I've ever done after boot camp is march, and that doesn't happen often. I feel as though if/when I go to a ship and/or get deployed, I will have earned being called a Veteran. Until then, I'm just another Sailor.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Oct 30 at 2015 3:33 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:33:01 -0400

There are statutory requirements. Generally speaking it's in B&W. The only "grey area" is those injured during initial training, and most of those are accorded status.

If you raised your hand and shipped, there's a better than 99% chance you are a Veteran by the "statutory requirement." There is no need for Veterans to be our own worst enemies on this subject. There is no need for us to divide ourselves on this issue. It doesn't matter when we served. Where we served. Why we served. Who we served with. We served is what matters.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 3:52 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:52:54 -0400

I personally feel a veteran is anyone who has fully and honorably served the United States of America. It is kind of a civilian attitude towards the word "veteran" that implies that one has been in combat.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Oct 30 at 2015 8:30 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 20:30:11 -0400

I love words. They're my stock in trade. For example, my wife and I spent the afternoon laughing over the connection between "ruminate" and "ruminant". No, I'm not going to belabor that one with you. We're talking here about "veteran".

Generally, the word is derived from the Latin for "old" and is used in many applications that have nothing to do with the military. Thus, we have to specify "military veteran" for the purposes of this discussion.

Under 38 U.S. Code § 101 - Definitions - (2)The term “veteran” means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.

I believe that should settle the point.

So, I'll just leave you with the assignment to find out what it means to "chew the cud".

Response by 2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2015 2:20 AM

2d Lt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 02:20:00 -0400

To be fair, the word 'veteran' is old...it's been around for a long time and it effectively means someone who's experienced at something. You know, seasoned. However, everyone here makes a valid point: the current American lexicon uses the term Veteran to identify someone who's served their military term honorably. You know what I can stand? Civilian companies using the phrase "years of service". I've worked for two civilian organizations that uses that phraseology. I don't know why that pisses me off, but it does.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Oct 31 at 2015 3:16 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 15:16:09 -0400

I am a Veteran, a Retiree. I don't feel that I can-nor should-command respect or honor. I believe that each quality has to be earned with each person with which one comes in contact.

Response by SSgt Daniel Lamb made Oct 31 at 2015 3:26 PM

SSgt Daniel Lamb — Sat, 31 Oct 2015 15:26:50 -0400

I believe Captain Jack Durish has pretty much answered the question.

Response by 1SG Nick Baker made Nov 1 at 2015 6:18 AM

1SG Nick Baker — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 06:18:08 -0500

[By statute, a veteran is defined as a “person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.” ]http://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R42324.pdf

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Nov 1 at 2015 2:45 PM

SGT Scott Bell — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 14:45:06 -0500

I define a Veteran as someone who honorably served their country.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Nov 1 at 2015 11:26 PM

PO1 John Miller — Sun, 01 Nov 2015 23:26:38 -0500

I've got honorable discharges out the wazoo, a DD214, been deployed multiple times. I'm a lifetime member of the VFW, and yearly member of the American Legion, DAV, and Fleet Reserve Association. I'm also a member of Combat Vets Motorcycle Association. So I consider myself a veteran!

Response by SGT Forrest Perez made Nov 2 at 2015 11:14 AM

SGT Forrest Perez — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 11:14:38 -0500

Just my view not trying to argue with no one, I joined when I was 17 went to Korea,then home (fort Bragg) for eight years only left because I was struck by a vehicle. I only call my fellow soldiers bros and sisters, who did not get general or a negative discharge. Regardless of if you rode "shin splints" all through basic and got discharged you are not a veteran

Response by PVT Dylan Kozmycz made Nov 2 at 2015 11:20 AM

PVT Dylan Kozmycz — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 11:20:23 -0500

I served but I don't consider myself a veteran. I feel like there's a time requirement of sorts.

Response by PFC Pamala (Hall) Foster made Nov 2 at 2015 11:27 AM

PFC Pamala (Hall) Foster — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 11:27:50 -0500

I served 2007 to 2009...because of injury and other reasons I was let go 34 days shy of my 2 year mark BUT the Post General and JAG said the Army damaged me so they were obliged to care for me for the rest of my days so long story short, I am a DAV/Disabled American Veteran. I tried to deploy more than once but a head injury during AIT ended that for me-so we veterans need to stick together NO matter what

Response by SGT Andrew Chapman made Nov 2 at 2015 11:34 AM

SGT Andrew Chapman — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 11:34:48 -0500

This is a tricky situation, Someone that is hurt in basic training and can not go on with their service I feel should be covered by VA and be a Vet. The one that cop out and pull the I can't take this mentally should not. When I went through 26 yrs ago, we had 3 or 4 guys once we got to AIT pull the I can't do this mentally so they could get out. I do think that a set amount of time should be there that you have to complete. Only exception is injuries...

Response by SPC Dave Elzinga made Nov 2 at 2015 11:37 AM

SPC Dave Elzinga — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 11:37:44 -0500

I believe that you have to pass basic training before you can be a veteran

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2015 11:44 AM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 11:44:56 -0500

When somebody thanks me for my service, I just say "Thank You". I always feel a bit awkward because I didn't do anything special when I was in. I was a pencil pusher. So my face turns beat red as I accept their thanks, then I try to move away as quickly and quietly as possible. And I am a member of a few Veteran's groups. The American Legion and I ride with the Patriot Guard Riders to give respect to those who served. Still, when someone thanks me, I feel awkward.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Nov 2 at 2015 12:07 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 12:07:45 -0500

Putting black and white aside. If you formally raised your right hand, and recited the Oath, you are a veteran.

You are a veteran even if you didn't finish basic, HOWEVER, I wouldn't go around flaunting that....

Response by MAJ Ariel Jose Ortiz Fuentes made Nov 2 at 2015 1:49 PM

MAJ Ariel Jose Ortiz Fuentes — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 13:49:20 -0500

a person who has had long experience in a particular field.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2015 1:55 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 13:55:54 -0500

Veterans have been to war. POGs who hide from deployments or go to Kuwait or Manas and such aren't vets.

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Nov 2 at 2015 2:44 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 14:44:29 -0500

I retired with 20 years, no combat. my brother and my father retired with 20 years, my brother was in combat. My father had 3 brothers retired with 20 or more years active duty and one that died in combat. My daughter has 3 years and a medical discharge. In my humble opinion if you have 180 continuous days of honorable service you are a vet. If you did not attain 180 days honorable service then you were a trainee and not a vet. I still thank you for trying.

Response by PO1 Michael Sarkisian made Nov 2 at 2015 3:56 PM

PO1 Michael Sarkisian — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 15:56:26 -0500

2 weeks of Airforce bootcamp does NOT a veteran make! And for them to claim to have been a Marine and going to Marine sniper school to boot makes them even worse.

Response by PV2 Gary Weller made Nov 2 at 2015 6:20 PM

PV2 Gary Weller — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 18:20:41 -0500

I served 365 days on active duty. Sometime around my 300th I was rucking in Hohenfels, Germany when I couldn't bare the pain anymore. A surgical attempt to remove a bone spur in my foot, 3 years prior, had failed. The calcium deposits had been growing back for some time, bigger and sharper. I just didn't realize it until we started marching so much. I was 19 years old and devoted to being a Scout, but my options were between a desk job and home. I chose home. I spent the remaining two months helping my unit prep for deployment. It's been 15 years since then. I have my moments when I wish I had stayed in. Now that I have a family, I've come to terms with my decision. I'm humbled. I have many friends who've toured in Iraq and Afghanistan. I praise them for their dedication and sacrifice. When asked about my time in the military, I can see the confusion in some people's faces when I tell them that I never deployed. I'm always afraid that they're going to think that I'm some loser who gave up. For a long time, I believed that I gave up. I was so embarrassed. It took me many years to come to the realization that I didn't give up; I made it through OSUT at FORT KNOX! A lot of guys can't even get through basic! And I did that, AIT, and several months of active duty in the harsh Winter of Germany; all while unknowingly injured! To Hell with anyone who thinks I quit! I'm a Veteran! Just because I'm not in the military anymore doesn't mean that I won't fight to the death for my country. Scouts Out!

Response by PFC David Ryba made Nov 3 at 2015 9:31 AM

PFC David Ryba — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 09:31:06 -0500

Well said!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2015 9:58 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 09:58:54 -0500

Anyone who donned the uniform at any time.

Then of course there are federal definitions for purposes of benefits and hiring (i.e. 5 point veteran). These are typically war/combat veterans.

Bottom line is all veterans are the same in the sense that they raised their right hand and gave an oath to potentially fight for something better and bigger than themselves.

Response by CW3 Jim Norris made Nov 3 at 2015 1:07 PM

CW3 Jim Norris — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 13:07:03 -0500

War is a terrible thing. But not the most terrible thing. The most terrible thing is a man (and I might add woman) who values NOTHING more than their own life. For they can only be kept free by those possessing more character than they themselves possesses. To paraphrase a great philosopher.

A veteran is one who has when asked or volunteered to run toward that storm on the horizon, to place him/herself between the ravaging violence of the human condition and the innocent humanity within a society, to provide for the protection of known and unknown persons in places far flung upon the earth, to stand where others fear and serve a more noble cause. I am so honored to meet the young soldiers, sailors, airman and marines of today and see that same fire in their bellies for the nation and her liberty. When America can no longer fill the ranks of the heroes of the Republic with honorable men and women, then the downfall is surely within sight. Let us pray that God in His benevolence will continue to shine His grace on us and this great experiment in self governance for decades to come.

Response by SFC Terry Murphy made Nov 3 at 2015 2:30 PM

SFC Terry Murphy — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 14:30:58 -0500

As a firefighter, I run into a lot of homeless people who clam to be vets. I am simply amazed how many are Infantry, Ranger, Special Forces, Marine RECON and SEAL trained!
If they are actually are vets, I wonder how many were actually vets, or how many had been booted out either during basic, for failure to adapt, or were kicked out in there first few years due to drugs, alcohol or other disciplinary issues.

Response by LCpl Tad Cunningham made Nov 3 at 2015 3:17 PM

LCpl Tad Cunningham — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 15:17:42 -0500

Imo a vet is someone who did their job. Deployments or not. In all reality deployments are an experience some are lucky enough to get. I loved my time on deployment, it was an experience I wouldn't ever give up, however some people get dealt the shitty hand and don't get a chance to leave the states. However, if someone joined to stay stateside I don't consider them much of a vet. I don't know anyone who's done that though. I don't consider reservists and nat guard who never deployed, out of choice more than anything, vets either. They basically took the military as a part time job. I also don't consider those who got broken in boot camp vets. From a Marine stand point they technically didn't even earn the title of Marine by not completing boot camp. I have a friend who was kicked out during boot camp cuz it was discovered he had developed Crohn's disease. In talking with him, he doesn't consider himself a vet. Should people who get med sep'd during boot camp get benefits? Of course, through no fault of their own were they unable to preform their duties. Should they be considered vets? Not so much.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 3 at 2015 5:12 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 17:12:29 -0500

I came here due to a post on a friend's page. He said he didn't consider himself a "vet" because he hadn't deployed. I replied that, You know, I've deployed twice, once with the Infantry, and It never occurred to me to ASK if you'd deployed when we were stationed together. You were there, you were in uniform, you were doing your job to the best of your ability, you were my battle buddy. To me, You're a Vet. I'm not sure why this is a discussion. I had family who never deployed because they served during the Ford or Clinton era and there were no wars to be fought. But they're still Veterans. I had a dear friend who was injured (though no fault of his own) in an Airborne jump only a few weeks after passing Airborne school, then medically discharged. He's Still a Veteran. We all signed a blank check. For some, that check was never cashed, but their signature was still on it. And that's enough for me.

Response by SFC James Barnes made Nov 3 at 2015 7:14 PM

SFC James Barnes — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 19:14:06 -0500

IMHO a veteran is a service member who has completed IET and has completed their initial service contract. if you were injured before that or were discharged you can refer to yourself as having been a soldier. Now above that people like to break things down into who is more hooah then the other guy categories which I find silly but to each their own.

Response by SGT Eric Kesseler made Nov 3 at 2015 11:29 PM

SGT Eric Kesseler — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 23:29:04 -0500

Hello Jinger, may I ask why you were told you were not a veteran? Is it solely because you are a woman? If so, that is utter crap! You are indeed a veteran, and I venture to say women in the service have it rougher than most men because there is the very real problem of sexual harassment and assault in the military. As a father of one girl and two boys I can tell you I would feel safer having my boys serve than my girl. Women are forced to work that much harder and have to be better than most just to make it! Look at the two female officers who just graduated Ranger School. There are all sorts of malcontents that scream conspiracy theory and use lack of evidence as evidence saying there is a cover-up. I served 5 years in RTB and if SGM Boley who is the OPS SGM of the Ranger Training Brigade says they legitimately passed, then that is it. There are too many professionals in RTB to say otherwise. The other question I have is are they saying you are not a vet because of your MOS or era you served in? Or is it because you were Guard or Reserves? I have heard all kinds of vets say so and so isn't a vet because of their MOS or component. We all need to support each other if we expect anyone else to! :D

Response by PV2 Adam Mowery made Nov 5 at 2015 4:20 PM

PV2 Adam Mowery — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 16:20:33 -0500

So I got my knee destroyed at the end of training. Said my goodbyes to my brothers when they shipped out. My tank crew are all dead and I'm here. So please tell me if I'm a Veteran or not. Because this one up than the other is starting to become bs. Took the oath lost my brothers and stuck living in this world. My life was changed and nothing I could do and still can't to change it.

Response by SGT Thomas Lucken made Nov 6 at 2015 4:48 AM

SGT Thomas Lucken — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 04:48:03 -0500

My tadbit for the local new this year for Veteran's Day:

November 11th is Veteran's Day, a day to remember all Veterans who have served our country in the military, protecting and defending our great nation! If it was NOT for these veterans, we would NOT enjoy the freedoms we have! So on this day when you bump into a Veteran, please tell him or her; thank you for your unselfishness service!

It takes sacrifice and dedication to serve in the military. These two attributes is why our military members and veterans are the best in the world! Without these two attributes, our military would not be the force that is today and has been in the past! It is these attributes that drive our military members to protect and defend our nation in a world of tyranny that we live.

On behalf of a gratefully nation, with gratitude we thank all veterans who have served this great nation. We are in your debt for your service and our ability to live and enjoy the freedoms. We owe you an eternity for your service!

With Deep Appreciation,

Thomas J. Lucken
Post Commander
Brownstown VFW Post 9770

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2015 8:28 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 20:28:53 -0500

While doing a security check around the COC Combat Operations Center / CCO Combat Command Center , what ever. It is the place out in the field , way back in the rear. In which Communications / Messages were sent and received. Could be land line or high tech Radio wave transmission. Point is that during the security check around the out side i was pushed into something or other. I fell into the razor ribbon / concertina wire , right. Blood , blood every were. A deep puncture wound. The staff SGT. told me , well he made me very happy. He said Larson your going to get the Reserve Casualty Ribbon. I was so happy. I wanted to bleed more, i felt so proud. ** Until i found out months latter there is no such award in the USMC **.
Point being i don't think the idea of being called a Veteran should be based completely on one aspect related to the service we provided our country and society. There are many points that are important related to the concept. The matter of one's discharge should be high on the totem pole.

Response by Amn Michael McClung made Nov 12 at 2015 7:39 PM

Amn Michael McClung — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 19:39:05 -0500

By Congress Code, they follow the "Any, any, any" rule. Meaning ANY person who served ANY AMOUNT OF TIME in ANY BRANCH OF SERVICE is a veteran.

That being said, if you washed out in boot, I would have trouble with it, and I graduated boot but was sepped out later in AIT. I did everything I could to stay in, but the might AF gods said no. I did 6 months, which is not long, but I rarely get shit from fellow veterans, its always civilians who never served who have the gall to say shit.

Response by SrA Andrew George made Nov 12 at 2015 10:13 PM

SrA Andrew George — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 22:13:33 -0500

The actual definition of a Veteran vs what most of us believe it to be vary considerably. I'm a 35yr old man that has put in 10yrs and 11 months of service of which I would go back active duty in a heart beat if I could. I consider myself to be a Veteran, yet I feel that I am and have done nothing out of the ordinary to deserve special treatment. I do however wish that we were not looked at and talked about like WE expect to be treated above others.

I feel that we(Myself included) are taken advantage of, whether by our very own government or by those teaching the younger crowds that we volunteered for this, so our pay/benefits should be lower.

A Veteran is someone that sacrifices their well being and gives up the everyday comforts in life to protect those that we love/care for, in order to keep our country and those in it free from harm. This also includes disaster assistance and other times of need.

As a Veteran, I consistently feel like I'm missing out on something and/or a part of myself by not currently being an active duty member.

Response by SGT Catherine Talento made Nov 13 at 2015 11:20 AM

SGT Catherine Talento — Fri, 13 Nov 2015 11:20:22 -0500

MAJ Vermillion I respectfully disagree with you. I have a relative who was discharged for asthma midway through OSUT. His four months of training does not equal my 12 years and I would be pissed if he called himself a veteran.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 13 at 2015 1:28 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 13 Nov 2015 13:28:53 -0500

There used to be a standard, someone mentioned it being in B&W. As I recall it was 2 years service during peace time and 6 months during a period of conflict. Personally for me the biggest difference is in the labels, "Veteran" and "Combat Veteran". I've deployed 3 times, still on my third actually and I in no way consider myself a "Combat Veteran". I have been in harms way but have not been engaged by nor have I engaged the enemy in combat. I consider myself a Veteran, status I have earned several times over.

I don't flaunt my status nor do I use it to get any benefits/preferential treatment. What I don't like are the kids that wash out of basic training and still demand special treatment because they took an oath (which they failed to uphold). That is a disgrace to everyone that has actually earned the title. They piss me off more than the stolen valor types.

Response by SPC Joel Brown made Nov 14 at 2015 6:17 AM

SPC Joel Brown — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 06:17:33 -0500

Note that everyone that signs there life away is not a "good person", let's remember we have American gangs that send their recruits to the military to come back to the gangs with weapons knowledge to kill innocent Americans. Something like two years consecutive service, with anything but a dishonorable discharge, is what I remember browsing over for official veteran status. Every other rule in the book must be followed so why not this one as well, lest the military becomes more Obama like and just decides to start making rules that are unlawful and unconstitutional without every member of that groups in put (Obamas case = every American citizen, Military = every current and past member).

Response by CH (MAJ) Dale Forrester made Nov 14 at 2015 11:56 AM

CH (MAJ) Dale Forrester — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 11:56:01 -0500

The question is complex. Do you mean by legal definition or some other definition? By law, a veteran eligible for benefits through the VA is someone who served two years or the period ordered to serve on ACTIVE DUTY and who were discharged under other than dishonorable circumstances. Historically, many reservists and National Guardsmen are not veterans by law because they are ordered to active duty for less than the time required to qualify. So a person could do a full 20 in the Reserves and still not be considered by law to be a veteran.

Response by SGT Steve Oakes made Nov 14 at 2015 2:52 PM

SGT Steve Oakes — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 14:52:25 -0500

Found this though Google. FEDERAL DEFINITION: under Federal Law a VETERAN is any person, who served honorably on active duty in the armed forces of the United States. (Discharges marked GENERAL AND UNDER HONORABLE CONDITIONS also qualify.)Jul 27, 2006

Response by SGT Steve Oakes made Nov 14 at 2015 3:54 PM

SGT Steve Oakes — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 15:54:35 -0500

I would call attention to Veterans that are often overlooked by the civilians, and even a great many current and former service members. These are the so-called Cold Warriors. Those that served their entire enlistment, some 20 years or more, without the country being in a declared war. But it is the fact of their vigilance, and dedication to their training that kept our nation from going to war. It is very ironic that by doing their jobs well they have marginalized themselves in the public's perception.

Response by MAJ Alvin B. made Nov 14 at 2015 6:58 PM

MAJ Alvin B. — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 18:58:55 -0500

The definition of who is and who is not a veteran is defined in law. At the Federal level the definition is included in Title 38 of the US Code. Some, but not all, of the States have also created defined whom they consider a veteran, however, that cannot supersede the Federal definition. My opinion on the matter is effectively moot, given the law.

A veteran is defined by law as follows: Title 38 U.S. Code § 101 - Definitions
(2) The term “veteran” means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.

All of the above being true, in my opinion, anyone who serves in any component of the armed forces deserves to be honored for that service, veteran by law or not.

Here is a link to a congressional research document related to this topic.

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

Who is a "Veteran"?

"To be eligible for most VA benefits, the claimant must be a veteran or, in some circumstances, the survivor or the dependent of a veteran. By statute, a veteran is defined as a “person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable." -- 38 U.S.C. § 101(2); 38 C.F.R. § 3.1(d).

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Response by CMSgt Richard B. made Nov 14 at 2015 11:03 PM

CMSgt Richard B. — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 23:03:58 -0500

There are different "types" of veterans, based on the situation. The majority of my career has been in the National Guard and reserves, and as a "Cold Warrior". I was activated in 1992-93 for 139 days under Title 10, and again in 1996 for 75 days. Another time in 1999-2000 for 91 days and under Title 32 for 75 days in 2009. I am considered a Persian Gulf Era veteran for my service in the 1990s. I am also a disabled veteran based on a service-connected disabilty. I did serve under Title 10 orders for Basic and AIT as an Army Guardsman, and later under Title 32 as an AGR soldier. As a basic rule, to receive VA benefits (non disability) one needs to complete 180 days of active duty service, or complete the period of service for which they were called to duty (example: my 139 days of active duty in 1992-93). If you served in the NG or reserves for at least 6 years you are a veteran for VA Home Loan eligibility. Each of the states have a slightly different rule for things such as license plates, tuition assistance, etc. Best to check with your local veterans agent or a service officer from the AL, VFW or DAV for what you may be eligible for in your community and state. Thank you all for your service - for whatever duration or whatever location!

Response by Sgt David Hesser made Nov 15 at 2015 9:58 AM

Sgt David Hesser — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 09:58:38 -0500

I am a little confused by the statements of several in here, I served in the U.S.M.C. from 1973 to 1977 and proudly so. I did not choose my MOS or station all that was chose for me I went where I was told to go and did what I was told to do and if the Marines told me they need me back for something I would be there in seconds.
Know do i consider myself a military veteran (yes I do).
Do I consider myself a Marine (I will until the day I die).
I consider anyone who raised their right hand and gave an oath and fulfilled their contractual obligations in any branch of service honorably a military veteran.
Do I need a thank you (absolutely not), it is me that needs to thank this great nation for the privilege of serving.
I still don't understand how some of you claim that someone avoided certain duties or stations I did not think that was a option.
I think it is every United States citizen,s obligation to serve this great country in one capacity or another at one point in their life, I chose to do so in the military and that makes me a Military Vet.

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Nov 15 at 2015 10:09 AM

SGT Alicia Brenneis — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 10:09:16 -0500

The way I see it is boot camp and AIT trains soldiers to serve. If they didn't make it out of training they didn't serve. Those who were injured do deserve compensation but only for the injury that ended their training . As for those who didn't deploy, they are still veterans . Many soldiers served in times of peace and still deserve respect for being ready just as the rest of us were. I am a 5th generation soldier and am proud of both of my parents for serving . Neither one deployed but I may not be who I am without their peacetime service . Thank you mom and dad, my veterans , for instilling in me the pride and courage it takes to serve.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2015 12:15 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Nov 2015 12:15:03 -0500

I've always wondered how true combat veterans felt about "Weekend Warriors."

I spent 6 years driving a forklift in the peacetime reserves. I feel like I missed a valuable experience by never having been in combat.

Response by PO1 Tharin Young made Nov 16 at 2015 12:05 PM

PO1 Tharin Young — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 12:05:51 -0500

If you took the oath, and, unless prevented by forces beyond your control, completed the contract. Whether you were front lines or in the rear with the gear, you are a veteran.

Response by SPC Michael Smallwood made Nov 16 at 2015 12:13 PM

SPC Michael Smallwood — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 12:13:15 -0500

I was never spit on the United States, but while I was stationed in Korea back in 96-97, I was spit on 3 different times for being an American soldier. I know its not the same as being spit on by your own people, but its demoralizing all the same when you and your brothers are the only thing standing between them and the 5th largest army in the world. One of times I was spit on was while visiting a college campus with a Korean friend I had made. I grabbed the dude by the collar and said, "Do you think I want to be here in this shit hole country? I speak for almost every soldier I know when is say that we would pack up and leave this country to go home with our families in a heartbeat, and let the North Koreans invade you and rape and kill you entire family. Im here because the US Government asked me to be here and its my duty. I dont give a shit about you." The look he gave me was classic. I dont think he ever thought of it that way. He just saw us as occupiers and not individual people.

Response by MAJ Michael Robbins made Nov 16 at 2015 12:24 PM

MAJ Michael Robbins — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 12:24:34 -0500

When I retired from the National Guard in 2004, I had 24 years towards retirement. My final DD214 does not show any AD time, all of AD entries are for ADT. I retired as a Major and I will never forget a dear friend of mine, and a Vietnam veteran telling me I was a veteran. He verbalized the "Blank Check" statement to me and he said to finish, "you raised your hand and served this country honorably". Even though I don't qualify for VA benefits or admission to a VFW, I know I served. I have never, or will ever take advantage of being a veteran. I'm 53 years old, I wear hearing aids (19 years as a UH-1H pilot), have a replaced hip (which I believe wasn't helped by 1000's of miles running and marching in combat boots) and I'm currently fighting cancer. I'm one of the lucky ones, I have a great job, great health care and can afford this fight. I would never dream of fighting for medical help when so many of our brothers and sisters are in dire need of strong caring help from our Government and the VA.
So if I, and others with similar military backgrounds aren't seen as "Veterans", that's not our problem, it's someone else's, and I won't be bothered with it. I can lay my head down each night in this great country and know that I served, and served with honor, along with hundreds of others, and that I will always consider brothers and sisters, but mostly Veterans. Thank you, and God Bless.

Response by AA Charles Grammer made Nov 16 at 2015 4:17 PM

AA Charles Grammer — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 16:17:52 -0500

I once was told that sense I served during peace time I did not deserve to use the VA or get any other benies. How is that, and who else believes that? Any one else.

Response by SGT Brian Mason made Nov 16 at 2015 4:52 PM

SGT Brian Mason — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 16:52:53 -0500

That depends upon whom you ask. According to the Department of Labor, a veteran is any one who served during the Spanish-American war, between 1914-1918, 1941-1955, 1965-1975, 1991-present, earned a campaign medal, forces or occupation ribbon, Purple Heart, or served in an action against an enemy force. So, according to the Department of Labor, any one who served after Vietnam and before Desert Storm are not considered veterans and therefore do not qualify for the 5 points Veteran's preference. To the Department of Labor, I want to thank you for discrediting my 9 years, 10 months and 27 days of active military service.

Response by LCpl Chad Parson made Nov 16 at 2015 5:58 PM

LCpl Chad Parson — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 17:58:07 -0500

It's already been stated a few times in a few different ways, but a lot of people are conflating the notions of veterans and combat/war veterans. The definition of a veteran in general is just someone who has a great deal of experience in a particular field. There are very specific guidelines as to what constitutes being a military veteran already mentioned here, which are 180 days of consecutive service or if medically discharged the time constraint does not apply.

To be a combat veteran is also really pretty simply defined, and generally noticeable on service members' service or dress uniforms depending on what branch. Whether someone personally defines themselves as a "combat veteran" or just a "garden variety veteran" or "none of the above" is their own cross to bear in how they view themself. If you crossed the line of departure into hostile territory during recognized hostilities, you are technically a combat veteran even if you just ran the chow line on the wagon train. Whether you consider yourself one or not is only really relevant to you.

Semper Fi.
C.H.U.D.

Response by PFC Charles Sanders made Nov 16 at 2015 9:27 PM

PFC Charles Sanders — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 21:27:23 -0500

A veteran is somebody that wrote that blank check. However much the government filled it out for is irrelevant in that sense. That said, not all vets are equal. I meet the statutory requirements, but don't pretend to be a "combat vet", nor to understand their struggles. I never had to deal with an actual combat deployment, and even if I had I would've been behind the wire most, if not all, of the time. We should respect each other enough to recognize the differences between us that the civilian world doesn't understand.

Response by SFC Brian Nelson made Nov 16 at 2015 9:51 PM

SFC Brian Nelson — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 21:51:45 -0500

Letter of law vs spirit of law! I am not a combat veteran I have served 28 years honorably! 4 active rest been guard and army reserve! When I meet with soldiers! They may have not served 180 days active duty but if they took an oath and wore the uniform that so many have paid the ultimate sacrifice they deserve my respect! Thank you all of you for supporting and defending the constitution of enemies foreign or domestically! I appreciate your service as a soldier airman seaman or marine veteran of war or not keep fighting the good fight and remember to vote were less than 10 percent of population that chose to stand for something bigger than ourselves. Sincerely SFC Nelson Minnesota

Response by PV2 Rick Isaak made Nov 17 at 2015 3:26 AM

PV2 Rick Isaak — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 03:26:27 -0500

I joined the Army National Guard in May 2002. In June 2004 my unit was mobilized to go to Iraq, and I spent a month down at Ft Bliss Tx, for training, before I was diagnosed with an enlarged prostate and was sent home. There are government agencies and other places that consider me a veteran, but really, I don't because I never went. The guys who went, they have that experience...and one of our SSG's paid the ultimate price near Mosul. I don't know, maybe it's the guilt of being spared of being deployed, but I consider myself a veteran in the very, very loosest sense.

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Nov 25 at 2015 1:02 PM

Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 13:02:37 -0500

Very nice!

Response by GySgt Douglas Dare made Jan 21 at 2016 2:36 PM

GySgt Douglas Dare — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 14:36:09 -0500

In the military we serve. We go where we are told to go and when we are told too. If you served in the military during a war, conflict police action or peace time you are a veteran. semper-Fi

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Jan 24 at 2016 5:11 AM

CDR Michael Goldschmidt — Sun, 24 Jan 2016 05:11:07 -0500

Wow, I don't even know where to start with this. Veterans are often people who have been raised with certain values and were, therefore, used by the government to execute its international political strategy, whether that included actual national defense or not. In some cases, veterans were not even raised with those values, but plucked off the streets by draft boards or given the choice "military or jail". Most of us, post-Viet Nam at least, made conscious decisions to join, based more on expectation than reality. We get a pass, though. We were young and propaganda is very strong.
Rather than glorifying war or service, I have come to two-time Medal of Honor recipient Major General Smedley Butler, USMC's conclusion that war is a racket. You can read more about him and his assertions at warisaracket.com.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Sep 10 at 2019 6:26 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 06:26:54 -0400

Excellent share sir.