What Does a Protected Veteran Mean?
The term "protected veteran" is often used in the context of employment and education, but what does it really mean? In this article, we will delve into the definition of a protected veteran, the benefits they receive, and the protections afforded to them under the law.
What is a Protected Veteran?
Definition: A protected veteran is an individual who served in the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Public Health Service. This definition includes:
- Active duty veterans: Those who served in the military during wartime or peacetime.
- Reservists: Individuals who served in the Reserve component of the military.
- National Guard members: Those who served in the National Guard, including State and Federal duty.
- Commissioned officers of the Public Health Service: Individuals who served in the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.
- Commissioned officers of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Those who served in the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps.
Benefits of Being a Protected Veteran
Protected veterans are entitled to a range of benefits, including:
- Priority job training and placement assistance: Federal agencies and contractors are required to provide priority job training and placement assistance to protected veterans.
- Counseling: Protected veterans are entitled to counseling on their job opportunities and employment rights.
- Recruitment and hiring assistance: Federal agencies and contractors must provide recruitment and hiring assistance to protected veterans.
- Preference in Federal hiring: Protected veterans have a preference in federal hiring, which means they may be given priority consideration in the hiring process.
- Education benefits: Protected veterans may be eligible for education benefits, such as the GI Bill.
Protections Afforded to Protected Veterans
In addition to the benefits, protected veterans are also entitled to certain protections, including:
- Non-discrimination: Protected veterans cannot be discriminated against based on their military status.
- Equal employment opportunity: Protected veterans have the right to equal employment opportunity, including equal pay for equal work.
- Reasonable accommodations: Federal agencies and contractors must provide reasonable accommodations to protected veterans with disabilities.
- Anti-retaliation protection: Protected veterans who report discrimination or file a complaint are protected from retaliation.
How to Determine If You are a Protected Veteran
To determine if you are a protected veteran, you can:
- Check your DD Form 214: Your DD Form 214, also known as a discharge paperwork, will indicate your military status.
- Contact your military branch: You can contact your military branch directly to verify your military status.
- Check your veteran status with the Department of Veterans Affairs: You can check your veteran status with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by visiting their website or contacting them directly.
Table: Benefits of Being a Protected Veteran
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Priority job training and placement assistance | Federal agencies and contractors provide priority job training and placement assistance. |
| Counseling | Protected veterans are entitled to counseling on their job opportunities and employment rights. |
| Recruitment and hiring assistance | Federal agencies and contractors must provide recruitment and hiring assistance. |
| Preference in Federal hiring | Protected veterans have a preference in federal hiring. |
| Education benefits | Protected veterans may be eligible for education benefits, such as the GI Bill. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, a protected veteran is an individual who served in the armed forces, including active duty, reservists, National Guard members, and Public Health Service and NOAA officers. Protected veterans are entitled to a range of benefits, including priority job training and placement assistance, counseling, recruitment and hiring assistance, preference in federal hiring, and education benefits. Additionally, protected veterans are protected from discrimination and are entitled to equal employment opportunity, reasonable accommodations, and anti-retaliation protection. If you are unsure if you are a protected veteran, you can check your DD Form 214, contact your military branch, or check your veteran status with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
