What Years are Considered Vietnam Era Veterans?
The Vietnam War was a pivotal moment in American history, lasting from 1955 to 1975. During this period, millions of American men and women served in the military, with many deploying to Vietnam. The term "Vietnam Era Veteran" refers to those who served during this time period, but what exactly are the years considered Vietnam Era Veterans?
The Definition of Vietnam Era Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) defines Vietnam Era Veterans as those who served on active duty in the United States Armed Forces during the following periods:
- August 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975: This period includes those who served in Vietnam, as well as those who served in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, or other countries in Southeast Asia.
Key Dates
Here are some key dates to note:
- August 5, 1964: The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution was passed, authorizing President Lyndon B. Johnson to take military action in Southeast Asia.
- March 8, 1973: The United States withdrew its last combat troops from Vietnam.
- April 30, 1975: North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, marking the end of the Vietnam War.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered a Vietnam Era Veteran, an individual must have:
- Served on active duty in the United States Armed Forces during the specified period (August 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975).
- Served in Vietnam or in a country in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia.
- Been discharged or released from active duty with an honorable or general discharge.
Types of Veterans
There are several types of Vietnam Era Veterans, including:
- Ground troops: Those who served on the ground in Vietnam, including infantry, artillery, and support personnel.
- Aviation troops: Those who served in the air, including pilots, navigators, and crew members.
- Navy and Coast Guard personnel: Those who served on ships or in shore-based units in Vietnam.
- Marine Corps personnel: Those who served in Vietnam as part of the Marine Corps.
Benefits and Recognition
Vietnam Era Veterans are eligible for a range of benefits and recognition, including:
- Veterans’ preference in federal hiring and job placement.
- Education and training benefits, including the GI Bill.
- Health care benefits, including medical and mental health services.
- Disability compensation for service-connected injuries or illnesses.
- Burial benefits, including headstones and grave markers.
- Recognition and ceremonies, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Conclusion
The years considered Vietnam Era Veterans are August 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975. During this period, millions of American men and women served in the military, with many deploying to Vietnam. To be considered a Vietnam Era Veteran, an individual must have served on active duty during this period, been discharged or released with an honorable or general discharge, and served in Vietnam or a country in Southeast Asia. Vietnam Era Veterans are eligible for a range of benefits and recognition, including education and training benefits, health care benefits, disability compensation, burial benefits, and recognition and ceremonies.
Table: Vietnam Era Veterans Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Service Dates | August 5, 1964, to May 7, 1975 |
| Service Location | Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, or other countries in Southeast Asia |
| Discharge Type | Honorable or general discharge |
| Service Type | Active duty |
Bullets: Benefits and Recognition
• Veterans’ preference in federal hiring and job placement
• Education and training benefits, including the GI Bill
• Health care benefits, including medical and mental health services
• Disability compensation for service-connected injuries or illnesses
• Burial benefits, including headstones and grave markers
• Recognition and ceremonies, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
