Define Veteran?

[Fataliya]

I was Active Duty Army wayyy back in 1993. After about 10 or 11 months, I got out with an honorable discharge. *I* don't consider myself a "veteran", because I didn't complete my enlistment, but don't know if that's accurate.

[bjk123]

I was Active Duty Army wayyy back in 1993. After about 10 or 11 months, I got out with an honorable discharge. *I* don't consider myself a "veteran", because I didn't complete my enlistment, but don't know if that's accurate.

 

It really depends on the context of where you want to apply the veteran label. There is no standardized legal definition. Each veteran benefit defines who qualifies slightly differently. When defining veteran preferences for hiring, each state and private employer is slightly different as well.

 

The most commonly applied definition for people who joined after 1980 is: 24 continuous months active duty (and not active duty training) with a discharge other than dishonorable, or less than 24 months active duty with a discharge due to disability.

[by2]

check with the pro's at va.gov!!!

[foolsgold83]

I wasn't aware that there was such a thing as a "pro" at the VA! Lol

[NEWSTARTIN2013]

@Bjk123, your correct about the 24 months of Active Duty with an honorable discharge. When I went to register at the VA Hospital that was two of the requirements for exceptance. Every VA Benefit Program I have taken advantage of goes by the same requirement as VA. I still would check but I am pretty sure those two things qualify you as a Veteran.

[namvet]

You are a veteran! Prior military services defines that!

[Xer0 SiN]

veteran is finishing your military obilgation as honorable status. defined by your dd214. combat veteran is finishing your tour to theater with honorable status, also defined by your dd214.

[dobeedobeedooo]

I realize this is a reasonably old discussion but I feel a link would help clarify the answer to the question. It depends on the time you served (pre 9/11 or post 9/11?), if you were in combat, etc. The 24 month rule is not hard and fast for all programs. You can see more here:

 

http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/apply/veterans.asp