Is a Vietnam Era Veteran Considered a Vietnam Veteran?
The Vietnam War, also known as the American War, was a conflict that lasted from 1955 to 1975 between the communist forces of North Vietnam, supported by China and the Soviet Union, and the government of South Vietnam and its main ally, the United States. The war had a profound impact on the world, and the term "Vietnam veteran" has become synonymous with the men and women who served during this period.
What is a Vietnam Era Veteran?
A Vietnam Era Veteran is a person who served in the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War era, which is generally defined as August 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975. This period includes the Gulf of Tonkin incident, which led to the escalation of American involvement in the war, and the fall of Saigon, which marked the end of the war.
Are Vietnam Era Veterans Considered Vietnam Veterans?
In short, yes. A Vietnam Era Veteran is considered a Vietnam Veteran. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between the two. A Vietnam Veteran is typically understood to be someone who served in-country, meaning they set foot in Vietnam, or was stationed on a ship or in a military base in Vietnam. A Vietnam Era Veteran, on the other hand, served during the Vietnam War era, regardless of whether they were stationed in Vietnam or not.
Why is this distinction important?
The distinction between a Vietnam Veteran and a Vietnam Era Veteran is important because it can affect eligibility for benefits and services. For example, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers specific benefits and services to Vietnam Veterans, including Agent Orange exposure compensation and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act. Vietnam Era Veterans, while not eligible for these specific benefits, may still be eligible for other VA benefits and services.
Key Dates and Events
- August 5, 1964: The Gulf of Tonkin incident, which led to the escalation of American involvement in the war.
- 1965: The first large-scale deployment of American troops to Vietnam.
- 1968: The Tet Offensive, a pivotal turning point in the war.
- 1973: The Paris Peace Accords, which officially ended the war.
- May 7, 1975: The fall of Saigon, marking the end of the war.
Types of Service
- In-country service: Service in Vietnam, including combat, support, and administrative roles.
- Out-of-country service: Service in other countries, including Thailand, South Korea, and Japan, that supported the war effort.
- Sea service: Service on ships and submarines that operated in the waters off Vietnam.
- Air service: Service in the air, including combat, transport, and support roles.
Benefits and Services
- Agent Orange exposure compensation: Benefits for Vietnam Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange, a herbicide used during the war.
- Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act: Benefits for Vietnam Era Veterans, including education and training assistance, and employment counseling.
- VA health care: Comprehensive health care services, including medical, surgical, and mental health services.
- Disability compensation: Compensation for service-connected disabilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a Vietnam Era Veteran is considered a Vietnam Veteran, regardless of whether they served in-country or not. While there are subtle differences between the two terms, the distinction is important for eligibility for benefits and services. Vietnam Era Veterans played a crucial role in the war effort, and their service and sacrifices should be recognized and honored.
