Hi, I had a quick question. Over the summer, I went to basic training on May 23rd and got discharge on August 23rd for Panic Disorder (It was a general under honorable conditions discharge, free from any disciplinary actions). Would I still be considered a veteran. I'm not looking for benefits of any kind, but I was wondering if it qualifies me to apply as an independent student by listing myself as a veteran. Thank you.
2007-12-24 03:46:16 · 18 answers · asked by crew_fantastico 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
Sorry but no,
"For federal medical benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, prior to Sept. 7, 1980 the veteran must have served at least 180 days of active duty, after the above-mentioned date, the veteran must have served at least 24 months."
This was taken from wikpedia and only covers the Federal definition, Each State also has a seperate definition of Veteran.
At any rate thank you for your service.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veteran
2007-12-24 04:01:17 · answer #1 · answered by SFC_Ollie 7 · 6⤊ 1⤋
From the federal and most states view for benefits you would not be considered a veteran but since you do have a DD214 the application as veteran for independent study would depend on what the specific program you are applying for considers, some just require a DD214 with the discharge being under honorable conditions which is what yours is. Contact the people running the program and ask them if you are a veteran. From my viewpoint I would say you are since it was under honorable and you sound like you made a good effort to make it.
2007-12-24 12:04:21 · answer #2 · answered by GunnyC 6 · 1⤊ 2⤋
These are the rules for health benefits.
The character of discharge you received from the military can be a factor. It is not an issue if you received:
* An honorable discharge
* A general discharge
* A discharge under honorable conditions
The length of your service may also matter. It depends on when you served. There’s no length of service requirement for:
* Former enlisted persons who started active duty before September 8, 1980, or
* Former officers who first entered active duty before October 17, 1981
* All other veterans must have 24 months of continuous active duty military service or meet one of the exceptions described below.
2007-12-24 11:58:37 · answer #3 · answered by sinnergy801 1 · 2⤊ 1⤋
No, you are not a Veteran and not eligible for any VA benefits.
But since you did enlist and went to basic training, you may be considered emancipated and be eligible for grants or federal student loans, without consideration of your parents income.
You will have to check with the financial aid department of your school. You cannot list your self as a Veteran.
2007-12-24 15:42:50 · answer #4 · answered by Dennis F 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
You need to read your DD 214.
Read the VA reference below.
As far as time requirements, it is 24 months, not six. However, there are exceptions due to medical conditions.
I would go to the VFW or American Legion and talk to a service officer as they will be able to help you determine if you qualify as a veteran for any benefits the VA may give. (Such as psych care for your panic disorder.)
2007-12-25 00:34:56 · answer #5 · answered by forgivebutdonotforget911 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
N O, You have to be in the U S Military 180 days
or longer to be considered a veteran and besides,
you have to graduate from basic training!!
2007-12-24 15:03:39 · answer #6 · answered by Vagabond5879 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
No, you have to go over 180 days on Active Duty. Oh, SFC Olie has a new definition and is correct- 24 months AD to qualify.
No you cannot call yourself a Veteran as you have no status with the VA.
Ret. USAF SNCO
2007-12-24 14:56:02 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
If you do more than 90 days ACTIVE DUTY and are discharged under honorable conditions, you are considered eligible for Veterans' benefits. If you do LESS than 90 days but are discharged for medical reasons, the best thing to do for the RIGHT answer is to contact your local Veterans' Affairs Office for your particular case.
(USN, retired)
2007-12-24 12:02:04 · answer #8 · answered by AmericanPatriot 6 · 2⤊ 3⤋
If you did not graduate basic the military does not consider you ever being a soldier.So no not a veteran.
2007-12-24 11:56:43 · answer #9 · answered by Old Guard 33 2 · 4⤊ 1⤋
No. One generally has to FINISH recruit training and actually be stationed somewhere on active duty before one can be called "veteran".....
You didn't serve.....
2007-12-24 17:30:26 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋