What Does Being a Protected Veteran Mean?
As a nation, we have a long history of honoring and supporting our veterans, who have sacrificed their time, energy, and sometimes their lives to protect our country and its values. In recognition of their service, the United States has implemented various laws and regulations to ensure that protected veterans receive the benefits and opportunities they deserve. In this article, we will explore what it means to be a protected veteran and the benefits and protections they are entitled to.
What is a Protected Veteran?
According to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) of 1974, a protected veteran is defined as:
- A veteran who served on active duty during a period of war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized
- A veteran who served on active duty during a period of hostility in support of the Armed Forces of the United States
- A veteran who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability
- A veteran who was discharged or released from active duty with a characterization of service of ‘dishonorable’
- A veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart
- A veteran who was discharged or released from active duty for a medical condition that was incurred or aggravated during active duty
Protected Veterans’ Benefits
As a protected veteran, you are entitled to various benefits and protections under federal law. Some of these benefits include:
- Job Preferences: Protected veterans have priority in hiring and job placement, especially in government jobs and contracts.
- Education Benefits: Protected veterans are eligible for educational benefits, such as the GI Bill, which helps cover the cost of education and training.
- Healthcare Benefits: Protected veterans are eligible for healthcare benefits, including medical treatment and rehabilitation services.
- Employment Protections: Protected veterans are protected from employment discrimination, including unfair treatment and harassment, due to their military service.
- Housing and Financial Assistance: Protected veterans may be eligible for housing and financial assistance, such as mortgage guarantees and financial counseling.
What Does Being a Protected Veteran Mean in the Workplace?
As a protected veteran, you are entitled to certain protections and benefits in the workplace. Some of these benefits include:
- Job Preference: Protected veterans have priority in hiring and job placement, especially in government jobs and contracts.
- Reasonable Accommodations: Protected veterans are entitled to reasonable accommodations in the workplace, such as flexible scheduling or job restructuring, to help them adjust to civilian life.
- Employment Protections: Protected veterans are protected from employment discrimination, including unfair treatment and harassment, due to their military service.
- Training and Orientation: Employers are required to provide training and orientation to help protected veterans transition back to civilian life and adjust to the workplace.
Table: Protected Veterans’ Employment Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Job Preference | Priority in hiring and job placement |
| Reasonable Accommodations | Flexible scheduling or job restructuring |
| Employment Protections | Protection from employment discrimination |
| Training and Orientation | Help with transitioning back to civilian life |
What Does Being a Protected Veteran Mean in Education?
As a protected veteran, you are entitled to certain benefits and protections in education. Some of these benefits include:
- Education Benefits: Protected veterans are eligible for educational benefits, such as the GI Bill, which helps cover the cost of education and training.
- Admissions and Financial Aid: Protected veterans may be eligible for priority admissions and financial aid, such as scholarships and grants.
- Counseling and Support Services: Protected veterans may be eligible for counseling and support services, such as academic advising and career counseling.
Table: Protected Veterans’ Education Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Education Benefits | GI Bill and other education benefits |
| Admissions and Financial Aid | Priority admissions and financial aid |
| Counseling and Support Services | Academic advising and career counseling |
Conclusion
Being a protected veteran means having access to a range of benefits and protections under federal law. From job preferences and education benefits to employment protections and healthcare benefits, protected veterans are entitled to a range of advantages that help them transition back to civilian life and thrive in their personal and professional lives. As a protected veteran, you have earned the right to these benefits and protections, and it is essential to understand and take advantage of them.
