Who is a Protected Veteran?
The term "protected veteran" is a vital concept in the United States, particularly in the context of employment and education. As a protected veteran, an individual is entitled to specific rights and protections under the law. In this article, we will delve into the definition of a protected veteran, the various categories of protected veterans, and the benefits and protections they are entitled to.
Definition of a Protected Veteran
A protected veteran is an individual who has served in the military, either in the active duty or in the reserve components, and has been honorably discharged or is a veteran of a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized. This definition is based on the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, which was amended by the Veterans’ Benefits Act of 2003.
Categories of Protected Veterans
There are several categories of protected veterans, including:
• Disabled Veterans: Those who have a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
• Recently Separated Veterans: Those who have been discharged or released from active duty in the past three years.
• Active Duty Wartime Veterans: Those who have served on active duty during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized.
• Armed Forces Service Medal Veterans: Those who have served in the armed forces during a period of combat or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized.
• Veterans of Campaigns or Expeditions: Those who have served in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized.
• Purple Heart Recipients: Those who have been awarded the Purple Heart for wounds or injuries sustained in combat.
Benefits and Protections
As a protected veteran, you are entitled to several benefits and protections, including:
• Employment Protections: Protected veterans are entitled to employment protections under the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, which prohibits discrimination against protected veterans in hiring, promotion, and other employment decisions.
• Education Benefits: Protected veterans are eligible for education benefits, including the GI Bill, which provides financial assistance for education and training.
• Veterans’ Preference: Protected veterans are entitled to veterans’ preference in federal employment, which gives them priority consideration for federal jobs.
• Healthcare Benefits: Protected veterans are eligible for healthcare benefits through the VA, including medical care, prosthetic devices, and mental health services.
• Disability Compensation: Protected veterans are eligible for disability compensation from the VA for service-connected disabilities.
Table: Protected Veterans’ Benefits and Protections
| Benefit/Protection | Description |
|---|---|
| Employment Protections | Prohibits discrimination against protected veterans in hiring, promotion, and other employment decisions |
| Education Benefits | Eligible for GI Bill, financial assistance for education and training |
| Veterans’ Preference | Priority consideration for federal jobs |
| Healthcare Benefits | Eligible for medical care, prosthetic devices, and mental health services through VA |
| Disability Compensation | Eligible for service-connected disability compensation |
Conclusion
In conclusion, a protected veteran is an individual who has served in the military and has been honorably discharged or is a veteran of a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized. As a protected veteran, you are entitled to specific benefits and protections under the law, including employment protections, education benefits, veterans’ preference, healthcare benefits, and disability compensation. It is essential to understand your rights and protections as a protected veteran to ensure that you receive the benefits and support you deserve.
