Who is eligible to wear the Vietnam Service Medal?

To be eligible service members must have completed 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days of service relating to direct support of ground operations or maritime service directly aiding military operations within specific regions of the Republic of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand between the dates of …

What medals do Vietnam veterans get?

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. It was authorized by an executive order in 1965.

Who qualifies as a Vietnam era veteran?

(1) Veteran of the Vietnam era means an eligible veteran any part of whose active military, naval, or air service was during the Vietnam era. (ii) A person who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability.

What is Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star?

Personnel are authorized one bronze campaign star for each qualifying campaign with a silver star worn in lieu of five bronze stars. The design of the medal’s suspension ribbon reflects that of the flag of the former South Vietnam — yellow with three red stripes.

Did you have to serve in Vietnam to be a Vietnam veteran?

In association with (A) above, the Commemoration uses the term “Vietnam veteran” to describe those who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time during the period of November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of duty location. We do NOT use the phrase “Vietnam-era veteran.”

What does the star on a Vietnam Service Medal mean?

A Silver Service Star is added to the ribbon to denote the 5th, 10th, etc. (4) Serve on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 nonconsecutive days in Vietnam or contiguous areas, except that the time limit may be waived for personnel participating in actual combat operations.

How old is the average Vietnam vet?

EsƟmated 6.4M Vietnam Era Veterans. Ages range from 97 to 55 years old (born between 1918 and 1960). Median age is 68 years. An overwhelming majority of Vietnam Veterans are male (6.2M) while in the civilian populaƟon females (47.7M) outnumber males by 20.5M.

Do Vietnam vets get more Social Security?

In general, Vietnam veterans received more money from Social Security and retirement plans than nonveterans; nonveterans had more earnings and more investment income.

Is Bronze Star a big deal?

Today, it is the fourth-highest ranking award a service member can receive for a heroic and meritorious deed performed in an armed conflict. For those who receive the BSM, it is a signal of their sacrifice, bravery and honor while serving their country.