Does National Guard Count as Veteran?
The question of whether the National Guard counts as a veteran is a common one, and the answer can be complex. In this article, we will explore the definition of a veteran, the differences between the National Guard and active-duty military, and the eligibility criteria for veteran benefits.
What is a Veteran?
A veteran is a person who has served in the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. The term "veteran" is typically used to describe individuals who have completed their military service and have been discharged, retired, or separated from the military.
Does National Guard Count as a Veteran?
The National Guard is a reserve component of the military that consists of part-time soldiers and airmen who serve in their home state or territory. While National Guardsmen are considered members of the military, they are not always considered veterans in the same way as active-duty military personnel.
Federal Benefits
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a range of federal benefits to eligible veterans, including:
- Education benefits: The GI Bill, which provides financial assistance for education and training.
- Healthcare benefits: The VA healthcare system, which provides medical care to eligible veterans.
- Disability compensation: A tax-free benefit for military personnel who are injured or disabled during their service.
- Home loan guarantees: The VA guarantees home loans for eligible veterans, which can help them purchase or refinance a home.
Not all National Guardsmen are eligible for these federal benefits, however. To qualify, National Guardsmen must have been activated for federal service, which means they must have been called up to active duty for more than 90 days or been deployed overseas.
State Benefits
In addition to federal benefits, states also offer benefits to veterans, including:
- Tuition waivers: Some states offer tuition waivers or reduced tuition rates for eligible veterans.
- Job preferences: Many states give preference to veterans in the hiring process for state jobs.
- Property tax exemptions: Some states offer property tax exemptions for eligible veterans.
National Guardsmen are generally eligible for state benefits, regardless of their activation status.
Table: Federal Benefits for National Guardsmen
| Benefit | Eligibility Criteria | National Guard Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| GI Bill | 90 days or more of active duty or deployment overseas | Depends on activation status |
| VA Healthcare | Discharged or separated from military | Depends on activation status |
| Disability Compensation | Injured or disabled during service | Depends on activation status |
| Home Loan Guarantees | Discharged or separated from military | Depends on activation status |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the National Guard is a component of the military, not all National Guardsmen are considered veterans in the same way as active-duty military personnel. To qualify for federal benefits, National Guardsmen must have been activated for federal service, which requires at least 90 days of active duty or deployment overseas. However, National Guardsmen are generally eligible for state benefits, regardless of their activation status.
