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veteran
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veteran

military
Also known as: war veteran
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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

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Quick Summary

A veteran is someone who has served in the military. The term can also refer to a person with extensive experience in any field.12

Historically, the United States has established systems to support those who have served. General George Washington emphasized the importance of providing for soldiers' future support in 1778. The U.S. government began offering pensions for permanently disabled soldiers during the Revolutionary War, and benefits expanded over time.3

A significant expansion of benefits occurred with the G.I. Bill in 1944, which provided educational grants, low-interest loans, and job training for World War II veterans. Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) manages a wide range of services for millions of veterans, including healthcare, educational programs, and financial assistance.43

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
6 Britannica Sources
  1. veteran
  2. G.I. Bill
  3. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
  4. United States Army: Top Questions
  5. United States Army - Administrative structure
  6. military service

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