what makes a veteran

According to the United States Code, a veteran is defined as "a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable". This means that anyone who completed a service for any branch of the armed forces qualifies as a veteran as long as they were not dishonorably discharged. Additionally, a Reservist or member of the National Guard called to Federal active duty or disabled from a disease or injury incurred or aggravated in line of duty or while in training status also qualifies as a veteran. The VA considers multiple factors like the individuals service record to make a determination of veteran status. There is no minimum length of service required to be considered a veteran for most VA benefits, but for some benefits, such as Tricare or pension benefits, the requirements may differ.