Understanding the Legal Definition of Veteran of the Vietnam Era

Definition & Meaning

A veteran of the Vietnam Era is an individual who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for more than 180 days and was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. This service must have occurred in one of the following contexts:

  • In the Republic of Vietnam between February 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975, or
  • Between August 5, 1964, and May 7, 1975, in any other location.

Additionally, a person qualifies if they were discharged due to a service-connected disability, with similar service timeframes applicable.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: John served in the U.S. Army from January 1965 to June 1967, with part of his service in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged, making him a veteran of the Vietnam Era.

Example 2: Sarah was discharged from the Navy in 1970 due to a service-connected disability after serving in Vietnam. She qualifies as a veteran of the Vietnam Era. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Specific Provisions
California Offers additional benefits for Vietnam veterans, including housing assistance.
Texas Provides property tax exemptions for veterans of the Vietnam Era.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Veteran A person who has served in the military, without specific timeframes or conditions.
Recently Separated Veteran A veteran who was discharged within the last three years, regardless of service era.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you qualify as a veteran of the Vietnam Era, consider the following steps:

  • Gather documentation of your military service and discharge status.
  • Explore your eligibility for benefits and protections under employment law.
  • Utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to assist in filing for benefits or addressing employment issues.
  • If your situation is complex, consult a legal professional for personalized advice.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Service Duration More than 180 days
Discharge Status Other than dishonorable
Relevant Timeframes Feb 28, 1961 - May 7, 1975

Key takeaways