Several decorations (Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, Commendation Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal) may be awarded for valor, or for merit. Awards for valor recognize bravery in action against an enemy and have an attached “V” device valor device.
What medals are Vietnam era veterans entitled to?
There are two medals that are commonly awarded for service in the Vietnam War: the Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign medal. The Vietnam Service Medal is a U.S. medal introduced during the War.
Is there a ribbon for Vietnam era vets?
The Vietnam Service Medal is awarded to recognize service during the Vietnam War and is authorized to service members of each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, provided they meet the award criteria.
Are Vietnam era veterans considered Vietnam veterans?
Vietnam era veterans are those who served during the time of the Vietnam war but didn’t set foot in the country of Vietnam. The Vietnam vet is one who was assigned within the combat zone of the country and it’s surrounding waters.
Who is eligible for the Vietnam Service Medal?
United States serving in Vietnam and contiguous waters or airspace thereover, after July 3, 1965 through March 28, 1973. Members of the Armed Forces of the United States in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia, or the airspace thereover, during the same period and serving in direct support of operations in Vietnam are also
Can a Vietnam era veteran join the VFW?
You must be a veteran who has honorably served overseas in an area of foreign conflict in order to join the VFW. However, if you are not eligible for VFW membership but are the parent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, child or grandchild of a qualifying veteran, you can apply for membership in the VFW Auxiliary.
What benefits do Vietnam era veterans receive?
VA Benefits
Vietnam Veterans may be eligible for a wide-variety of benefits available to all U.S. military Veterans. VA benefits include disability compensation, pension, education and training, health care, home loans, insurance, vocational rehabilitation and employment, and burial.
What are the three Vietnam service medals?
The ribbon incorporates the colours of the three armed services (red, navy blue, and sky blue), and the national colours of Vietnam (red and yellow). In 1992, Australia struck the Vietnam Logistic and Support Medal.
What years are considered Vietnam era veteran?
(b) Post-Vietnam-era veteran means an eligible veteran who first became a member of the Armed Forces or first entered on active duty as a member of the Armed Forces after May 7, 1975. (c) Vietnam era means the period be- ginning August 5, 1964 and ending May 7, 1975.
Who is considered a Vietnam combat veteran?
Generally, combat veterans are those that served in a combat zone during their military service. This can include service in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and certain areas of Iraq and Afghanistan, among other locations.
How many Vietnam era veterans are there?
6.1 million
VA continues to serve Vietnam Veterans
VA’s Veteran Population Projection Model estimates the number of living Vietnam War-era Veterans to be 6.1 million (11). In 2019, approximately 3.4 million Vietnam War Veterans were enrolled for Veterans Health Administration services (12).
What is a Vietnam era?
(29) The term “Vietnam era” means the following: (A) The period beginning on November 1, 1955 , and ending on May 7, 1975 , in the case of a veteran who served in the Republic of Vietnam during that period. (B) The period beginning on August 5, 1964 , and ending on May 7, 1975 , in all other cases.
How many Vietnam veterans are still alive in 2021?
despite their oral claim of service there. As of this date The American War Library estimates that approximately 610,000 Americans who served on land in Vietnam or in the air over Vietnam between 1954 and 1975 are alive today. And approximately 164,000 Americans who served at sea in Vietnam waters are alive today.
How many Bronze Stars awarded Vietnam?
The Bronze Star was awarded in the following conflicts: World War II: 395,380 recipients. Korean War: 30,359 recipients. Vietnam War: 719,969 recipients: 549,343 for achievement and service and 170,626 for valor.
Who can wear the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry?
Vietnamese military personnel
e. Full-Size Medal Display: The full-size medal is provided in the standard-length by United States manufacturers for wear on civilian clothing or all non-Vietnamese military uniforms. The 24-inch neck ribbon common to Vietnamese medals is authorized only to Vietnamese military personnel.
What does VSM mean on a dd214?
Question: A Vietnam veteran must have VSM or the words VIETNAM SERVICE MEDAL on their DD Form 214.
Is Vietnam era veterans a protected class?
AM I A PROTECTED VETERAN? The Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (VEVRAA), as amended (38 U.S.C. § 4212), prohibits discrimination against protected veterans.
Is the National Defense Service medal a protected veteran?
Protected veteran is a term defined by the U.S. government as someone who is disabled, recently separated from the military, served in wartime or during a campaign, or earned the Armed Forces Service Medal.
Does National Defense Service medal qualify for VFW?
If a veteran’s DD-214 or other military documentation confirms they have been awarded one of these campaign medals and they have served honorably, then they are eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
How many Vietnam era veterans are left?
How Many Vietnam War Veterans Are Still Alive? According to the American War Library, as of February 28, 2019, it is estimated that approximately 610,000 Americans who served in land forces during the Vietnam War or in air missions over Vietnam between 1954 and 1975 are still alive to this day.
Do Vietnam veterans get extra Social Security?
Many of our Vietnam era veterans are now nearing retirement age, or are already there.
