What is a protected veteran mean?

What is a Protected Veteran?

As a veteran, you have made significant sacrifices for your country, and it’s essential to understand the benefits and protections that come with your service. One crucial aspect is the concept of "protected veteran" status. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of being a protected veteran, the benefits you can expect, and how to identify yourself as one.

What is a Protected Veteran?

A protected veteran is an individual who has served in the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This designation is granted to veterans who have been discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered a protected veteran, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• Served on active duty during a war or conflict: This includes:

  • World War II
  • Korean War
  • Vietnam War
  • Gulf War (August 2, 1990, to August 31, 1991)
  • War in Afghanistan (October 7, 2001, to present)
  • Iraq War (March 20, 2003, to present)

• Served on active duty during a campaign or expedition: This includes:

  • Lebanon (June 15, 1982, to February 7, 1984)
  • Grenada (October 25, 1983, to November 21, 1983)
  • Panama (December 20, 1989, to January 31, 1990)
  • Operation Enduring Freedom (October 7, 2001, to December 31, 2014)
  • Operation Iraqi Freedom (March 20, 2003, to December 31, 2011)
  • Operation New Dawn (September 1, 2010, to December 31, 2011)

• Received a Purple Heart: The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the armed forces who are wounded or killed while serving in the military.
• Served in a combat zone: A combat zone is an area designated by the President or the Secretary of Defense as a zone of combat.

Benefits of Being a Protected Veteran

As a protected veteran, you are entitled to various benefits, including:

• Priority in hiring: Protected veterans are given priority in hiring for federal jobs and contractor positions.
• Preference in hiring for federal contracts: Federal contractors are required to give preference to protected veterans when hiring for jobs related to federal contracts.
• Education benefits: Protected veterans are eligible for education benefits, such as the GI Bill, which can help pay for college or vocational training.
• Employment assistance: The Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) provides employment assistance, including job training and placement services.
• Healthcare benefits: Protected veterans are eligible for healthcare benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

How to Identify Yourself as a Protected Veteran

To identify yourself as a protected veteran, you can:

• Use the term "Protected Veteran": When applying for jobs or requesting benefits, you can use the term "Protected Veteran" to indicate your status.
• Complete the Protected Veteran Self-Identification Form: The VA provides a self-identification form that you can complete to indicate your protected veteran status.
• Contact the VA: You can contact the VA directly to request information on protected veteran benefits and services.

Table: Protected Veteran Benefits

Conclusion

Being a protected veteran comes with significant benefits and protections. By understanding your eligibility criteria and identifying yourself as a protected veteran, you can take advantage of these benefits and continue to serve your country in new ways. Remember to use the term "Protected Veteran" when applying for jobs or requesting benefits, and to complete the self-identification form or contact the VA directly for more information.