The Vietnam War 'era' was 1961 to 1975.
Anyone regardless of rank, branch of service, or jobspeciality, who served in country or in the waters off the coast and were awarded a Vietnam campaign ribbon indicating that they did so is a Vietnam veteran, regardless of the job they performed. The guy who was a chaplain's assistant, cook or clerk typist etc, who served there is a Vietnam veteran just as the combat veteran.
You are a Vietnam Era Veteran but not a Vietnam War Veteran
No particular individual defined the term. A veteran, in this sense, means someone who served in a particular conflict, Vietnam in this case.
It is a veteran who served in the US Military during the time of the Vietnam War without defining the role played within the war itself. It is not saying that they saw combat in Vietnam or that they were even in Asia. Very few who saw actual service in Vietnam would actually use that terminology, preferring something like I was at Dong Ha, or Khe Sahn or Danang. It does not however automatically mean that they did not serve in country.
Any person that has served their country IN the US military forces honorably; is a military veteran. Civilian contractors working for the military are NOT military vets.
NO. Anyone who has worn a military uniform in service to their nation, war or peace, is a veteran.
No, Martin Sheen is not a veteran. He was drafted during the Vietnam War but received a deferment due to his status as a father and his health issues. Although he is not a military veteran, Sheen has been an advocate for veterans' rights and has expressed his support for military service members.
No, he never served in the military.
Any military service qualifies you as a 'veteran.' However, this does not automatically qualify you for Department of Veterans' Affairs benefits. These benefits are tied to specific qualifications such as service-connected disability or participation in G.I. Bill Educational Benefit programs.
You are considered a Vietnam Era veteran if you served in the active military, naval, or air service during the period defined by the U.S. government as November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975. This includes service in Vietnam and in other locations during the Vietnam War. Eligibility for certain benefits may depend on the specifics of your service and the timeframe in which you served.
Any person who renders honorable service to their nation wearing a military uniform, in war or peace, is a veteran.
Based on your active duty dates from 1955 to 1957, you would qualify for certain Vietnam War veteran statuses, as this period falls within the broader timeframe of U.S. military involvement in Vietnam. However, eligibility for specific benefits may depend on whether you served in Vietnam itself or were stationed in related areas. Your Navy Reserve service from 1957 to 1961 may also provide additional benefits depending on the circumstances of your service. It's advisable to consult with a veterans' service organization or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for a comprehensive assessment of your eligibility.
Anyone who has given honorable military service to their nation, in war or peace, is a veteran.
If you have worn a military uniform in service to your nation, YOU ARE A VETERAN.
Bruce Springsteen is not a military veteran. He was eligible for the draft during the Vietnam War but was classified as 4-F, which means he was deemed unfit for military service due to a medical condition. Instead of serving in the military, Springsteen pursued a career in music, becoming one of the most iconic rock musicians in history.
Join the military service. (and be discharged)
Anyone regardless of rank, branch of service, or jobspeciality, who served in country or in the waters off the coast and were awarded a Vietnam campaign ribbon indicating that they did so is a Vietnam veteran, regardless of the job they performed. The guy who was a chaplain's assistant, cook or clerk typist etc, who served there is a Vietnam veteran just as the combat veteran.