Question:

So, then WWII GI''s who served stateside during WWII are not designated as WWII veterans. Korean Conflict veterans who did not serve in Korean conflict are not Korean veterans. Is this how the veteran's status is determined? This is confusing. I served during Vietnam but was stationed in S. Korea ready to deploy at a moment's notice. But, I am not considered a Vietnam veteran?

Jim's Reply:

Veterans who serve during different periods of war and peace may be known as "era" veterans if they didn't serve in a designated combat zone during a specified time. For example, I served during the Vietnam era but I was sent to Germany rather than to Vietnam. I'm not called a Vietnam vet, I'm a Vietnam era vet. Some benefits may be a bit different for different eras and types of service so you should be aware that since you weren't in combat, you may not be entitled to things like presumptive benefits. Otherwise, the designations have little impact on our lives.