Am I a Protected Veteran?
For many veterans, understanding the protections afforded to them as a result of their service can be a daunting and complex task. As a protected veteran, you have certain rights and benefits conferred upon you by law and regulation. In this article, we will explore the defining characteristics of a protected veteran and provide guidance on how to determine if you qualify as one.
What is a Protected Veteran?
As defined by the United States Department of Labor, a protected veteran is "a person who served on active duty in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, including regular and reserve components, with a period of active military service of more than seven days during a war or Military Operation or at any time during a period of hostility during a war, or had been discharged or released with a service-connected disability"; (Source: Veteran Employment and Training Service). This definition encompasses a broad scope of individuals who have rendered service to the United States.
Characteristics that Define a Protected Veteran:
To determine if you are a protected veteran, consider the following characteristics that define this status:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Duty | Active duty in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, including regular and reserve components. |
| War or Military Operation | Service during a war or military operation where the individual served for over seven days. |
| Hostility | Service during a period of hostility during a war or military operation. |
| Service-Connected Disability | Discharge or release with a service-connected disability. |
The Importance of Protected Veteran Status:
As a protected veteran, you are afforded certain rights and benefits aimed at promoting employment and professional development. These benefits can include:
- Preference in Federal Employment: Protections under the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) provide preference in Federal employment for protected veterans who have a service-connected disability.
- Priority Rating: Protected veterans are ranked higher in the Federal civil service hiring process, known as the "Schedule A" hiring authority.
- Veterans’ Reemployment Rights: The Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) provides federal employees with a protected status, ensuring their right to reemployment after a tour of duty.
- Education and Training Benefits: Protected veterans may be eligible for education and training benefits, such as the G.I. Bill, dependent education assistance, and student loan forgiveness programs.
How to Determine if I am a Protected Veteran?
To determine if you are a protected veteran, consider the following steps:
- Check your DD Form 214 or Discharge Papers: Obtain a copy of your official military discharge papers, Form DD 214, issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Review the details of your service, such as the dates of duty, type of discharge, and any service-connected disability.
- Meet the Eligibility Criteria: Review the characteristics that define a protected veteran (discussed above). If your service meets one or more of these criteria, proceed to the next step.
- Check Federal Employment Records: If seeking Federal employment, review federal employment records to determine your protected veteran status.
- Contact a Service Organization or Veterans’ Benefit Representative: Reach out to a service organization, veterans’ benefit representative, or a Veterans’ Affairs specialist for guidance on determining and utilizing your protected veteran benefits.
Conclusion: Am I a Protected Veteran?
In conclusion, becoming a protected veteran requires fulfillment of specific criteria related to military service. Understanding and recognizing these characteristics can bring about significant benefits and preferential treatment in the area of employment and professional development. By following the steps outlined in this article, veterans can determine their protected status and take advantage of the benefits conferred upon them for their service to the nation.
