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Veterans suffering from TBIs can take years and years to recover from and often lead to life altering changes in daily living. The Veterans go through rehabilitation and the their families are left to address their newly found needs. Changes in family dynamics occur and nurses must tend to both the Veteran and the family. Nurses should ask and offer families any additional information that can be of most help to them, and communicate in a trusting manner. Rehabilitation is a slow and long process, taking baby steps each day is key towards recovery for the Veteran and their family.

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Military families cope with traumatic brain injury at West Orange hospital

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Substance abuse/use is referred to individuals with problems of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription form drugs. Abuse and use can lead to physical violence, homelessness, and can be linked towards diseases and disabilities. The VA offers 3 types of therapies for helping Veterans in substance use. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT helps users to create and develop more helpful thoughts about the individuals and their futures. This uses a problem-solving approach for substance use. Motivational Interviewing or MI is focused on conversational strength or motivation to help the Veteran look or want for change. Motivational Enhancement Therapy or MET is motivation through the conversations between the Veteran and the provider; that results in want for change. The VA website also lists medications that are often used in certain disorders like alcohol, tobacco, and opioid.

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Substance Use Treatment

Treatment

No matter what you are experiencing, treatments and resources are available. VA offers treatment options that are proven to be very effective for most people, and many types of professionals at VA can help treat substance use.

Evidence-based therapies are among the most effective treatments for substance use. They can include the following - which are in many cases available at a local VA medical center.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps Veterans with substance use disorders develop more balanced and helpful thoughts about themselves, others, and the future. It can help Veterans manage the urge to drink or use drugs, refuse opportunities to use substances, use a problem-solving approach to deal with substance use, and achieve personal goals.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) helps Veterans with substance use disorders by focusing on conversations between the Veteran and their provider to detect and strengthen personal motivations for change. This therapy looks at the reasons behind your desire to make a change and the potential benefits of that change.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) helps Veterans with substance use disorders by focusing on conversations between the Veteran and their provider to detect and strengthen personal motivations for change. This therapy looks at the reasons behind your desire to make a change and the potential benefits of that change. MET is a version of MI that focuses specifically on changing alcohol and/or substance use.

Explore more potential treatment options at VA by visiting the Learn About Treatment page.

Medications

Just like diabetes or hypertension, substance use disorder is a chronic disease that can be treated with medication. VA offers proven options for controlling alcohol and drug addiction, including medications that can reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and reduce the risk of death from substance use disorder. Among the medication options are:

Buprenorphine, injective naltrexone, or methadone for opioid use disorder (Read more.)

Acamprosate, disulfiram, naltrexone, and topiramate for alcohol use disorder

Nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion, and varenicline for tobacco use disorder

Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

Research has shown that behavioral therapy in combination with medication (commonly referred to as medication-assisted treatment, or MAT) is the most effective treatment for opioid use disorder. Patients undergoing therapy who also use MAT are more likely to remain in treatment and see improvements in social functioning. Talk to your VHA provider today to learn more about treatments for opioid use disorder.

If you or a Veteran you know has been diagnosed with opioid use disorder, it is important to learn about naloxone, an emergency overdose medication.

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No matter what you are experiencing, treatments and resources are available. VA offers treatment options that are proven to be very effective for most people, and many types of professionals at VA can help treat substance use. Evidence-based therapies are among the most effective treatments for substance use.

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This initiative from the Department of Education, Veterans Affairs, and Defense is provided for Veterans and military service members to help further their educational degrees. This program helps Veterans find the best suited schools to meet their needs and interests.

As per the Department of Education, Veterans Affairs and Defense the 8 Keys to Veterans' Success are...

1. Create a culture of trust and connectedness across the campus community to promote well-being and success for veterans.

2. Ensure consistent and sustained support from campus leadership.

3. Implement an early alert system to ensure all veterans receive academic, career, and financial advice before challenges become overwhelming.

4. Coordinate and centralize campus efforts for all veterans, together with the creation of a designated space for them (even if limited in size).

5. Collaborate with local communities and organizations, including government agencies, to align and coordinate various services for veterans.

6. Utilize a uniform set of data tools to collect and track information on veterans, including demographics, retention, and degree completion.

7. Provide comprehensive professional development for faculty and staff on issues and challenges unique to veterans.

8. Develop systems that ensure sustainability of effective practices for veterans.

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Postsecondary institutions listed on this site have voluntarily affirmed their support for the 8 Keys. However, a listing here is not a representation or assurance by the U.S. Department of Education that an institution has implemented the 8 Keys or how well it has implemented them, and it does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S.

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MOVE! is a weight management program that is offered to Veterans and their families to improve the quality of one's life, reducing potential health risks, and prevention of certain diseases. Even losing 10% of weight can lead to drastic changes in someone's life and can keep the person healthy without complications for a long time. The program offers an 8-week food and physical activity log that the Veteran can use to keep track of how much calories, nutrients, and exercise they are doing per week. Using an tracker will lead to long term success as the person can see if what they are currently doing is aligned with the plan or if changes are needed. Nutritional resources are also available such as health recipes online with a veteran cookbook. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to continue to thrive and successfully transition into civilian life.

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MOVE! is a national weight management program designed by the VA National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (NCP), a part of the Office of Patient Care Services, to help veterans lose weight, keep it off and improve their health.

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The Family Health Model consists of 3 categories, the Contextual Domain, Functional Domain, and Structural Domain. Each domain relates to the way the family functions as a whole and within the individual parts. For instance, the Structural Domain includes the routines purposes, meanings, types, and characteristics of the family, while the Functional Domain relates to the roles each individual has in the family. As nurses, it is important to care for the Veteran with the family and often include them into care routines. Observing the beliefs, values, and resources for the family can help aid in a positive health outcome for the Veteran. As nurses, we can include the family in nurse to nurse reports, during rounds, and educate the family on how to do simple dressing changes, etc.

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Family Focused Nursing Care_Ch02_Denham (1) (1)

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PTSD is described as intense fear, helplessness, or horror caused by an traumatic event. Traumatic events such as sexual or physical assault, unexpected death, accidents, war, or through natural disasters. Feelings of intense fear or horror can increase over time in PTSD and become so strong that disrupts the Veteran's normal life. There can also be changes to physical and emotional reactions in everyday life such as trouble sleeping, concentrating, being on guard, easily frightened, irritability, aggressive outbursts, and overwhelming guilt or shame. Seek treatment from a doctor if you have these feelings for over a month and/or have trouble getting back to normal life.

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Overview

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event - either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

Most people who go through traumatic events may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping, but with time and good self-care, they usually get better. If the symptoms get worse, last for months or even years, and interfere with your day-to-day functioning, you may have PTSD.

Getting effective treatment after PTSD symptoms develop can be critical to reduce symptoms and improve function.

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Symptoms

Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms may start within one month of a traumatic event, but sometimes symptoms may not appear until years after the event. These symptoms cause significant problems in social or work situations and in relationships. They can also interfere with your ability to go about your normal daily tasks.

PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms can vary over time or vary from person to person.
Intrusive memories
Symptoms of intrusive memories may include:

Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event

Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks)

Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event

Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event

Avoidance
Symptoms of avoidance may include:

Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event

Avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic event

Negative changes in thinking and mood
Symptoms of negative changes in thinking and mood may include:

Negative thoughts about yourself, other people or the world

Hopelessness about the future

Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event

Difficulty maintaining close relationships

Feeling detached from family and friends

Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed

Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

Feeling emotionally numb

Changes in physical and emotional reactions
Symptoms of changes in physical and emotional reactions (also called arousal symptoms) may include:

Being easily startled or frightened

Always being on guard for danger

Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast

Trouble sleeping

Trouble concentrating

Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior

Overwhelming guilt or shame

For children 6 years old and younger, signs and symptoms may also include:

Re-enacting the traumatic event or aspects of the traumatic event through play

Frightening dreams that may or may not include aspects of the traumatic event

Intensity of symptoms
PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time. You may have more PTSD symptoms when you're stressed in general, or when you come across reminders of what you went through. For example, you may hear a car backfire and relive combat experiences. Or you may see a report on the news about a sexual assault and feel overcome by memories of your own assault.
When to see a doctor
If you have disturbing thoughts and feelings about a traumatic event for more than a month, if they're severe, or if you feel you're having trouble getting your life back under control, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Getting treatment as soon as possible can help prevent PTSD symptoms from getting worse.
If you have suicidal thoughts
If you or someone you know has suicidal thoughts, get help right away through one or more of these resources:

Reach out to a close friend or loved one.

Contact a minister, a spiritual leader or someone in your faith community.

Contact a suicide hotline. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. Services are free and confidential.

Make an appointment with your doctor or a mental health professional.

When to get emergency help
If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

If you know someone who's in danger of attempting suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person to keep him or her safe. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Or, if you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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Causes

You can develop post-traumatic stress disorder when you go through, see or learn about an event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation.

Doctors aren't sure why some people get PTSD. As with most mental health problems, PTSD is probably caused by a complex mix of:

Stressful experiences, including the amount and severity of trauma you've gone through in your life

Inherited mental health risks, such as a family history of anxiety and depression

Inherited features of your personality - often called your temperament

The way your brain regulates the chemicals and hormones your body releases in response to stress

Risk factors

People of all ages can have post-traumatic stress disorder. However, some factors may make you more likely to develop PTSD after a traumatic event, such as:

Experiencing intense or long-lasting trauma

Having experienced other trauma earlier in life, such as childhood abuse

Having a job that increases your risk of being exposed to traumatic events, such as military personnel and first responders

Having other mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression

Having problems with substance misuse, such as excess drinking or drug use

Lacking a good support system of family and friends

Having blood relatives with mental health problems, including anxiety or depression

Kinds of traumatic events
The most common events leading to the development of PTSD include:

Combat exposure

Childhood physical abuse

Sexual violence

Physical assault

Being threatened with a weapon

An accident

Many other traumatic events also can lead to PTSD, such as fire, natural disaster, mugging, robbery, plane crash, torture, kidnapping, life-threatening medical diagnosis, terrorist attack, and other extreme or life-threatening events.

Complications

Post-traumatic stress disorder can disrupt your whole life - your job, your relationships, your health and your enjoyment of everyday activities.

Having PTSD may also increase your risk of other mental health problems, such as:

Depression and anxiety

Issues with drugs or alcohol use

Eating disorders

Suicidal thoughts and actions

Prevention

After surviving a traumatic event, many people have PTSD-like symptoms at first, such as being unable to stop thinking about what's happened. Fear, anxiety, anger, depression, guilt - all are common reactions to trauma. However, the majority of people exposed to trauma do not develop long-term post-traumatic stress disorder.

Getting timely help and support may prevent normal stress reactions from getting worse and developing into PTSD. This may mean turning to family and friends who will listen and offer comfort. It may mean seeking out a mental health professional for a brief course of therapy. Some people may also find it helpful to turn to their faith community.

Support from others also may help prevent you from turning to unhealthy coping methods, such as misuse of alcohol or drugs.

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - Symptoms and causes

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by a terrifying event, causing flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety.

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Suicide can be attributed to factors of depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, alcohol and drug abuse. The crude rate per 100,000 among Veterans in 2021 was 33.9. The crude rate has been increasing over time since 2001 (crude rate of 23.3) up until 2021. Being direct about suicidal ideation is more effective than beating around the bush and not getting a direct answer. We as nurses can report suicidal thoughts and refer the hotline of 988 or call a mental health consultation. The use of language is also important when reporting a suicide, it is better to describe the death as suicide rather than be specific of the exact issue as suicide can range from mental health issues to relationship problems to financial issues. We should be respectful to the victims while also raising awareness.

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The symptoms of the Gulf War Illness includes fatigue, headaches, respiratory and joint issues. The exact cause is said to be unknown and has been alluded towards exposure of vaccinations, pesticides, and burn pits. Veterans of Operation Dessert Shield and Storm are heavily impacted. The challenges of the Gulf War Illness is that the causes can not be exactly pinpointed and can often be pushed to the side and not treated. Many Veterans are seeking better health care for this illness and are still suffering to this day. The VA offers disability compensation for any illness lasting longer than 6 months without a need for cause, for those that have served during the Gulf War.

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Gulf War Veterans' Medically Unexplained Illnesses

A prominent condition affecting Gulf War Veterans is a cluster of medically unexplained chronic symptoms that can include fatigue, headaches, joint pain, indigestion, insomnia, dizziness, respiratory disorders, and memory problems.

VA refers to these illnesses as "chronic multisymptom illness" and "undiagnosed illnesses." We prefer not to use the term "Gulf War Syndrome" when referring to medically unexplained symptoms reported by Gulf War Veterans. Why? Because symptoms vary widely.

Military service connection

Gulf War Veterans who meet the criteria below do not need to prove a connection between their military service and illnesses in order to receive VA disability compensation.

VA presumes certain chronic, unexplained symptoms existing for 6 months or more are related to Gulf War service without regard to cause. These "presumptive" illnesses must have appeared during active duty in the Southwest Asia theater of military operations or by December 31, 2021, and be at least 10 percent disabling. These illnesses include:

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a condition of long-term and severe fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other conditions.

Fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread muscle pain. Other symptoms may include insomnia, morning stiffness, headache, and memory problems.

Functional gastrointestinal disorders, a group of conditions marked by chronic or recurrent symptoms related to any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Functional condition refers to an abnormal function of an organ, without a structural alteration in the tissues. Examples include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia, and functional abdominal pain syndrome.

Undiagnosed illnesses with symptoms that may include but are not limited to: abnormal weight loss, fatigue, cardiovascular disease, muscle and joint pain, headache, menstrual disorders, neurological and psychological problems, skin conditions, respiratory disorders, and sleep disturbances.

VA benefits

Gulf War Veterans may be eligible for a variety of VA benefits, including a Gulf War Registry health exam, the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry, health care, and disability compensation for diseases related to military service. Their dependents and survivors also may be eligible for benefits.

Learn more about benefits related to Gulf War service.

Research on Gulf War Veterans' illnesses

VA and other researchers continue to conduct research to investigate how service in the Gulf War is linked to illnesses Gulf War Veterans have experienced. Research includes:

VA contracts with the Health and Medicine Division (HMD) (formally known as the Institute of Medicine) of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to scientifically review the evidence for possible connections between Gulf War Veterans' illnesses and exposure to environmental agents or preventive medicine during service, and the best treatments for these illnesses.

VA is currently reviewing HMD's latest Gulf War and Health report, Gulf War and Health: Volume 10: Update of Health Effects of Serving in the Gulf War, 2016.

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US Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration

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A prominent condition affecting Gulf War Veterans is a cluster of medically unexplained chronic symptoms that can include fatigue, headaches, joint pain, indigestion, insomnia, dizziness, respiratory disorders, and memory problems. VA refers to these illnesses as "chronic multisymptom illness" and "undiagnosed illnesses."

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Military sexual trauma is defined as any sort of sexual assault or harassment while in the military service. These can be violent, non-violent, drugged, unconscious, or while being threatened. The reason of occurrence does not matter and is always considered MST. 1/4 women in the VA health care system have experienced MST, however, half of MST victims are men. Gender, age, ethnicity, and position does not have any indicator of MST. It is important to raise awareness of MST and continue to advocate for Veterans to share their experiences and seek help and treatment.

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The VA offers services for mental health care for Veterans. The 24/7 hotline for homeless veterans (1-877-4AID-VET) and will be answered by VA professional that can lead the Veteran to the nearest VA medical center for both mental and physical health care. For mental health specific services there is another hotline for Veterans (988 and then press 1). The VA also offers other programs such as HCHV and DCHV which provides medical exams, treatments, and/or referrals for disabled or disadvantaged services. It is important to continue to offer these services and make Veterans aware of the services that can be used.

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Mental Health Services - Homeless Veterans

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Veterans have a difficult time to transition back into civilian life due to a numerous of reasons. Veterans often come back into civilian life with mental health issues, PTSD, and loss of purpose. Veterans often lack support and 50% more likely to be homeless than the average American. Being homeless often means it is more difficult to seek health care assistance from the VA and difficulties in making consistent health care appointments. The military also teaches a never surrender attitude instilled into our soldiers, this can lead to refusal of seeking services by the VA from veterans. Benefits and services such as housing, mental health services, health care, and employment.

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Veteran Homelessness | Connecting Point: Veterans Coming Home | Oct. 13, 2014

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What is Agent Orange and why is it significant for Veteran care?

Agent Orange was an herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to prevent the growth of jungles, whom the Vietcong were using for cover/ambush on the U.S military. The side effects of the herbicide on the soldiers were not deeply understood nor studied at the time. Now the toxic herbicide still causes health issues for Veterans and their families today. Related diseases can be AL Amyloidosis, bladder cancer, B-cell Leukemias, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, and Hypothyroidism. There are also identified birth defects among the children such as Spina bifida. The veterans who have served in the Vietnam War have sacrificed their lives and continue to suffer through their families.

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Veterans' Diseases Associated with Agent Orange - Public Health

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Information on diseases VA has recognized are related to Veterans' exposure to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service, also known as presumptive diseases

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According to Title 38, the definition of a veteran is a person who has served among the military branches (Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Space Force, Reserve) whom were discharged that is NOT dishonorable. The title of veteran also pertains to those whom have died during active service, that was NOT due to willful misconduct.

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Date of receipt means the date on which a claim, information or evidence was received in the Department of Veterans Affairs, except as to specific provisions for claims or evidence received in the State Department ( § 3.108), or in the Social Security Administration ( §§ 3.153, 3.201), or Department of Defense as to initial claims filed at or prior to separation. However, the Under Secretary for Benefits may establish, by notice published in the Federal Register, exceptions to this rule, using factors such as postmark or the date the claimant signed the correspondence, when he or she determines that a natural or man-made interference with the normal channels through which the Veterans Benefits Administration ordinarily receives correspondence has resulted in one or more Veterans Benefits Administration offices experiencing extended delays in receipt of claims, information, or evidence from claimants served by the affected office or offices to an extent that, if not addressed, would adversely affect such claimants through no fault of their own.

Hostile force. The term hostile force means any entity other than an enemy or foreign government or the agents of either whose actions are taken to further or enhance anti-American military, political or economic objectives or views, or to attempt to embarrass the United States.

[ 26 FR 1563, Feb. 24, 1961]

This section sets forth the beginning and ending dates of each war period beginning with the Indian wars. Note that the term period of war in reference to pension entitlement under 38 U.S.C. 1521, 1541 and 1542 means all of the war periods listed in this section except the Indian wars and the Spanish-American War. See § 3.3(a)(3) and (b)(4)(i).

[ 26 FR 1563, Feb. 24, 1961, as amended at 32 FR 13223, Sept. 19, 1967; 36 FR 8445, May 6, 1971; 37 FR 6676, Apr. 1, 1972; 40 FR 27030, June 26, 1975; 44 FR 45931, Aug. 6, 1979; 56 FR 57986, Nov. 15, 1991; 62 FR 35422, July 1, 1997]

Indian war death pension. A monthly benefit payable by the Department of Veterans Affairs to the surviving spouse or child of a deceased veteran of an Indian war. Basic entitlement exists if a veteran had qualifying service as specified in 38 U.S.C. 1511. Indian war death pension rates are set forth in 38 U.S.C. 1534 and 1535.

(Authority: Sec. 501(c)(2), Pub. L. 881, 84th Cong. (70 Stat. 857), as amended by Sec. 13(u), Pub. L. 85-857; (72 Stat. 1266); Sec. 5, Pub. L. 91-621 (84 Stat. 1863))

[ 29 FR 10396, July 25, 1964, as amended at 35 FR 18661, Dec. 9, 1970; 37 FR 6676, Apr. 1, 1972; 39 FR 34529, Sept. 26, 1974; 44 FR 22717, Apr. 17, 1979; 58 FR 25561, Apr. 27, 1993; 58 FR 27622, May 10, 1993; 60 FR 18355, Apr. 11, 1995; 70 FR 72220, Dec. 2, 2005; 73 FR 23356, Apr. 30, 2008]

Full-time duty performed by members of the National Guard of any State, under 32 U.S.C. 316, 502, 503, 504, or 505, or the prior corresponding provisions of law or full-time duty by such members while participating in the reenactment of the Battle of First Manassas in July 1961;

The term does not include duty performed as a temporary member of the Coast Guard Reserve.

Duty (other than full-time duty) performed by a member of the National Guard of any State, under 32 U.S.C. 316, 502, 503, 504, or 505, or the prior corresponding provisions of law. The term inactive duty training does not include:

[ 26 FR 1564, Feb. 24, 1961, as amended at 26 FR 6767, July 28, 1961; 27 FR 4023, Apr. 27, 1962; 29 FR 14171, Oct. 15, 1964; 36 FR 5341, Mar. 20, 1971; 41 FR 26881, June 29, 1976; 49 FR 47003, Nov. 30, 1984; 54 FR 51200, Dec. 13, 1989; 55 FR 23931, June 13, 1990; 60 FR 57179, Nov. 14, 1995; 61 FR 11731, Mar. 22, 1996; 66 FR 48560, Sept. 21, 2001; 67 FR 49585, July 31, 2002]

The following individuals and groups are considered to have performed active military, naval, or air service:

Office of Workers' Compensation Programs. See § 3.708.

[ 26 FR 1565, Feb. 24, 1961]

Any person who has intentionally and wrongfully caused the death of another person is not entitled to pension, compensation, or dependency and indemnity compensation or increased pension, compensation, or dependency and indemnity compensation by reason of such death. For the purpose of this section the term dependency and indemnity compensation includes benefits at dependency and indemnity compensation rates paid under 38 U.S.C. 1318.

[ 44 FR 22718, Apr. 17, 1979, as amended at 54 FR 31829, Aug. 2, 1989]

By reason of a discharge under other than honorable conditions issued as a result of an absence without official leave (AWOL) for a continuous period of at least 180 days. This bar to benefit entitlement does not apply if there are compelling circumstances to warrant the prolonged unauthorized absence. This bar applies to any person awarded an honorable or general discharge prior to October 8, 1977, under one of the programs listed in paragraph (h) of this section, and to any person who prior to October 8, 1977, had not otherwise established basic eligibility to receive Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. The term established basic eligibility to receive Department of Veterans Affairs benefits means either a Department of Veterans Affairs determination that an other than honorable discharge was issued under conditions other than dishonorable, or an upgraded honorable or general discharge issued prior to October 8, 1977, under criteria other than those prescribed by one of the programs listed in paragraph (h) of this section. However, if a person was discharged or released by reason of the sentence of a general court-martial, only a finding of insanity ( paragraph (b) of this section) or a decision of a board of correction of records established under 10 U.S.C. 1552 can estalish basic eligibility to receive Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. The following factors will be considered in determining whether there are compelling circumstances to warrant the prolonged unauthorized absence.

An honorable or general discharge issued prior to October 8, 1977, under authority other than that listed in paragraphs (h) (1), (2) and (3) of this section by a discharge review board established under 10 U.S.C. 1553 set aside any bar to benefits imposed under paragraph (c) or (d) of this section except the bar contained in paragraph (c)(2) of this section.

Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the entire period of service under the circumstances stated in paragraph (a) of this section constitutes one period of service and entitlement will be determined by the character of the final termination of such period of active service except that, for death pension purposes, § 3.3(b)(3) and (4) is controlling as to basic entitlement when the conditions prescribed therein are met.

Service is valid unless the enlistment is voided by the service department.

[ 26 FR 1567, Feb. 24, 1961, as amended at 27 FR 4024, Apr. 27, 1962]

For nonservice-connected or service-connected benefits, active service is countable exclusive of time spent on an industrial, agricultural, or indefinite furlough, time lost on absence without leave (without pay), under arrest (without acquittal), in desertion, while undergoing sentence of court-martial or a period following release from active duty under the circumstances outlined in § 3.41. In claims based on Spanish-American War service, leave authorized under General Order No. 130, War Department, is included.

Cross Reference:

Duty periods. See § 3.6(b)(6).

[ 40 FR 16064, Apr. 9, 1975]

In computing the 70 or 90 days required under § 3.3(a) active service which began before or extended beyond the war period will be included if such service was continuous. Broken periods of service during a war period may be added together to meet the requirement for length of service.

[ 41 FR 18299, May 3, 1976, as amended at 44 FR 45932, Aug. 6, 1979]

In computing the 90 days' service required for pension entitlement (see § 3.3), there will be included active service which began before and extended into the Mexican border period or ended during World War I, or began or ended during World War II, the Korean conflict, the Vietnam era or the Persian Gulf War, if such service was continuous. Service during different war periods may be combined with service during any other war period to meet the 90 days' service requirement.

§§ 3.18-3.19 [Reserved]

Marriage dates. See § 3.54. Homicide. See § 3.11.

[ 44 FR 22718, Apr. 17, 1979, as amended at 48 FR 41161, Sept. 14, 1983; 53 FR 23235, June 21, 1988; 54 FR 31829, Aug. 2, 1989; 65 FR 3391, Jan. 21, 2000; 65 FR 43699, July 14, 2000; 70 FR 72220, Dec. 2, 2005; 77 FR 40526, July 10, 2012]

Maximum annual rates of improved pension. The maximum annual rates of improved pension for the following categories of beneficiaries shall be the amounts specified in 38 U.S.C. 1521 and 1542, as increased from time to time under 38 U.S.C. 5312. Each time there is an increase under 38 U.S.C. 5312, the actual rates will be published in the "Notices" section of the Federal Register.

Mexican border period and World War I veterans. The applicable maximum annual rate payable to a Mexican border period or World War I veteran under this section shall be increased by the amount specified in 38 U.S.C. 1521(g), as increased from time to time under 38 U.S.C 5312. Each time there is an increase under 38 U.S.C. 5312, the actual rate will be published in the "Notices" section of the Federal Register.

Housebound. As defined in § 3.351(d)(2), (f). This term also includes a veteran who has a disability or disabilities evaluated as 60 percent or more disabling in addition to a permanent and totally disabling condition. See § 3.351(d)(1).

Reasonable availability and hardship. For the purposes of paragraphs (d)(4) and (d)(5) of this section, a child's income shall be considered "reasonably available" when it can be readily applied to meet the veteran's or surviving spouse's expenses necessary for reasonable family maintenance, and "hardship" shall be held to exist when annual expenses necessary for reasonable family maintenance exceed the sum of countable annual income plus VA pension entitlement. Expenses necessary for reasonable family maintenance include expenses for basic necessities (such as food, clothing, shelter, etc.) and other expenses, determined on a case-by-case basis, which are necessary to support a reasonable quality of life.

Cross References:

Improved pension. See § 3.1(w). Child. See § 3.57(d). Definition of living with. See § 3.60. Exclusions from income. See § 3.272.

Child with no personal custodian or in the custody of an institution. In cases in which there is no personal custodian, i.e., there is no person who has the legal right to exercise parental control and responsibility for the child's welfare (See § 3.57(d)), or the child is in the custody of an institution, pension shall be paid to the child at the annual rate specified in 38 U.S.C. 1542, as increased from time to time under 38 U.S.C. 5312, reduced by the amount of the child's countable annual income. Each time there is an increase under 38 U.S.C. 5312, the actual rate will be published in the "Notices" section of the Federal Register.

More than one child. Pension shall be paid to children in custody of a person legally responsible for the children's support at an annual rate equal to the difference between the rate for a surviving spouse and an equivalent number of children (but not including any child who has countable annual income equal to or greater than the maximum annual pension rate under paragraph (b) of this section) and the sum of the countable annual income of the person legally responsible for support and the combined countable annual income of the children (but not including the income of any child whose countable annual income is equal to or greater than the maximum annual pension rate under paragraph (b) of this section, or the maximum annual pension rate under paragraph (b) of this section times the number of eligible children, whichever is less).

Cross References:

Child. See § 3.57(d). Exclusions from income. See § 3.272.

Monthly payments of parents' DIC shall be computed in accordance with the following formulas:

One parent. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, if there is only one parent, the monthly rate specified in 38 U.S.C 1315(b)(1), as increased from time to time under 38 U.S.C. 5312, reduced by $.08 for each dollar of such parent's countable annual income in excess of $800. No payments of DIC may be made under this paragraph, however, if such parent's countable annual income exceeds the amount specified in 38 U.S.C. 1315(b)(3), as increased from time to time under 38 U.S.C. 5312, and no payment of DIC to a parent under this paragraph may be less than $5 a month.

Two parents living together or remarried parents living with spouse. The rate computation method in this paragraph applies to each parent living with another parent and to each remarried parent when both parents are alive. The monthly rate of DIC paid to such parents shall be the rate specified in 38 U.S.C. 1315(d)(1), as increased from time to time under 38 U.S.C. 5312, reduced to an amount no greater than $.08 for each dollar of such parent's and spouse's combined countable annual income in excess of $1,000 except that no payments of DIC to a parent under this paragraph may be less than $5 monthly. Each time there is a rate increase under 38 U.S.C. 5312, the amount of the reduction under this paragraph shall be recomputed to provide, as nearly as possible, for an equitable distribution of the rate increase. The results of this computation method shall be published in schedular format in the "Notices" section of the Federal Register as provided in paragraph (f) of this section.

Rate publication. Each time there is an increase under 38 U.S.C. 5312, the actual rates will be published in the "Notices" section of the Federal Register.

[ 52 FR 34907, Sept. 14, 1987, as amended at 61 FR 20727, May 8, 1996]

Each time there is an increase under section 306 (a)(3) or (b)(4) of Pub. L. 95-588, the actual income limitations will be published in the "Notices" section of the Federal Register.

[ 52 FR 34908, Sept. 14, 1987]

Publishing requirements. Increases in pension rates, parents' dependency and indemnity compensation rates and income limitation, the monthly allowance rates under 38 U.S.C. chapter 18 and the Medal of Honor pension made under this section shall be published in the Federal Register.

Whenever the maximum annual rates of improved pension are increased by reason of the provisions of 38 U.S.C. 5312, the following will be increased by the same percentage effective the same date:

These increases shall be published in the Federal Register at the same time that increases under § 3.27 are published.

(Authority: Sec. 306, Pub. L. 95-588).

[ 52 FR 34908, Sept. 14, 1987]

Cross References:

Section 306 and old-law pension annual income limitations. See § 3.26.

Monthly or other periodic pension rates. After determining the monthly or other periodic rate of improved pension under §§ 3.273 and 3.30 or the rate payable under section 306(a) of Pub. L. 95-588 (92 Stat. 2508), the resulting rate, if not a multiple of one dollar, will be rounded down to the nearest whole dollar amount. The provisions of this paragraph apply with respect to amounts of pension payable for periods beginning on or after June 1, 1983, under the provisions of 38 U.S.C. 1521, 1541 or 1542, or under section 306(a) of Pub. L. 95-588.

Regardless of VA regulations concerning effective dates of awards, and except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, payment of monetary benefits based on original, supplemental, or increased awards of compensation, pension, dependency and indemnity compensation, or a monetary allowance under 38 U.S.C. chapter 18 for an individual who is a child of a Vietnam veteran or a child of a veteran with covered service in Korea may not be made for any period prior to the first day of the calendar month following the month in which the award became effective. However, beneficiaries will be deemed to be in receipt of monetary benefits during the period between the effective date of the award and the date payment commences for the purpose of all laws administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs except that nothing in this section will be construed as preventing the receipt of retired or retirement pay prior to the effective date of waiver of such pay in accordance with 38 U.S.C. 5305.

Increased award defined. For the purposes of this section the term increased award means an award which is increased because of an added dependent, increase in disability or disability rating, or reduction in income. The term also includes elections of improved pension under section 306 of Pub. L. 95-588 and awards pursuant to paragraphs 29 and 30 of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section.

[ 48 FR 34472, July 29, 1983; 48 FR 37031, Aug. 16, 1983, as amended at 49 FR 47003, Nov. 30, 1984; 65 FR 35282, June 2, 2000; 67 FR 49586, July 31, 2002; 76 FR 4247, Jan. 25, 2011; 84 FR 166, Jan. 18, 2019]

When determining the rates of pension or parents' DIC or the amounts of burial, plot or headstone allowances or accrued benefits to which a claimant or beneficiary may be entitled, income received or expenses paid in a foreign currency shall be converted into U.S. dollar equivalents employing quarterly exchange rates established by the Department of the Treasury.

Accrued benefits. See § 3.1000. Accrued benefits payable to foreign beneficiaries. See § 3.1008.

[ 55 FR 8140, Mar. 7, 1990; 55 FR 10867, Mar. 23, 1990]

Where an attempted marriage of a claimant to the veteran was invalid by reason of a legal impediment, the marriage will nevertheless be deemed valid if:

Definition, marriage. See § 3.205(c).

A surviving spouse may qualify for pension, compensation, or dependency and indemnity compensation if the marriage to the veteran occurred before or during his or her service or, if married to him or her after his or her separation from service, before the applicable date stated in his section.

Child born. The term child born of the marriage means a birth on or after the date of the marriage on which the surviving spouse's entitlement is predicated. The term born to them before the marriage means a birth prior to the date of such marriage. Either term includes a fetus advanced to the point of gestation required to constitute a birth under the law of the jurisdiction in which the fetus was delivered.

[ 26 FR 1567, Feb. 24, 1961, as amended at 27 FR 6498, July 10, 1962; 32 FR 13224, Sept. 19, 1967; 40 FR 16064, Apr. 9, 1975; 40 FR 48680, Oct. 17, 1975; 41 FR 18300, May 3, 1976; 44 FR 22718, Apr. 17, 1979; 54 FR 31829, Aug. 2, 1989; 56 FR 5756, Feb. 13, 1991; 56 FR 57986, Nov. 15, 1991; 65 FR 3392, Jan. 21, 2000]

§ 3.56 [Reserved]

Except as provided in paragraphs (a)(2) through (4) of this section, the term child of the veteran means an unmarried person who is a legitimate child, a child legally adopted before the age of 18 years, a stepchild who acquired that status before the age of 18 years and who is a member of the veteran's household or was a member of the veteran's household at the time of the veteran's death, or an illegitimate child; and

Subject to the provisions of paragraphs (c) and (e) of this section, the term child also includes a person who became permanently incapable of self-support before reaching the age of 18 years, who was a member of the veteran's household at the time he or she became 18 years of age, and who was adopted by the veteran, regardless of the age of such person at the time of adoption.

General. The provisions of this paragraph are applicable to a person adopted under the laws of any jurisdiction other than a State. The term State is defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(20) and also includes the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The term veteran includes, for the purposes of this paragraph, a Commonwealth Army veteran or new Philippine Scout as defined in 38 U.S.C. 3566.

Verification. In the case of an adopted child of a living veteran, the requirements of paragraphs (e)(2)(ii), (iii) and (iv) of this section are for prospective application. That is, in addition to meeting all of the requirements of paragraph (e)(2) of this section at the time of initial adjudication, benefits are not payable thereafter for or to a child adopted under the laws of any jurisdiction other than a State unless the requirements of paragraphs (e)(2)(ii), (iii) and (iv) of this section continue to be met. Consequently, whenever Department of Veterans Affairs benefits are payable to or for a child adopted under the laws of any jurisdiction other than a State, and the veteran who adopted the child is living, the beneficiary shall submit, upon Department of Veterans Affairs request, a report, or other evidence, to determine if the requirements of paragraph (e)(2)(ii), (iii), and (iv) of this section were met for any period for which payment was made for or to the child and whether such requirements will continue to be met for future entitlement periods. Failure to submit the requested report or evidence within a reasonable time from date of request may result in termination of benefits payable for or to the child.

Cross References:

Improved pension rates. See § 3.23. Improved pension rates; surviving children. See § 3.24. Child adopted out of family. See § 3.58. Child's relationship. See § 3.210. Helplessness. See § 3.403(a)(1). Helplessness. See § 3.503(a)(3). Veteran's benefits not apportionable. See § 3.458. School attendance. See § 3.667. Helpless children - Spanish-American and prior wars. See § 3.950.

[ 44 FR 45935, Aug. 6, 1979 and 45 FR 1878, Jan. 9, 1980, as amended at 45 FR 25391, Apr. 15, 1980; 49 FR 47003, Nov. 30, 1984; 65 FR 12116, Mar. 8, 2000; 72 FR 6959, Feb. 14, 2007; 80 FR 48451, Aug. 13, 2015]

Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, a child of a veteran adopted out of the family of the veteran either prior or subsequent to the veteran's death is nevertheless a child within the meaning of that term as defined by § 3.57 and is eligible for benefits payable under all laws administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Child. See § 3.57. Veteran's benefits not apportionable. See § 3.458.

[ 80 FR 48451, Aug. 13, 2015]

For the purposes of determining entitlement to pension under 38 U.S.C. 1521, a person shall be considered as living with his or her spouse even though they reside apart unless they are estranged.

[ 44 FR 45935, Aug. 6, 1979]

[ 29 FR 7547, June 12, 1964, as amended at 31 FR 14455, Nov. 10, 1966; 37 FR 10442, May 23, 1972; 53 FR 3207, Feb. 4, 1988; 60 FR 18355, Apr. 11, 1995; 61 FR 20727, May 8, 1996; 78 FR 2100, Jan. 13, 2014]

It is the defined and consistently applied policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs to administer the law under a broad interpretation, consistent, however, with the facts shown in every case. When, after careful consideration of all procurable and assembled data, a reasonable doubt arises regarding service origin, the degree of disability, or any other point, such doubt will be resolved in favor of the claimant. By reasonable doubt is meant one which exists because of an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence which does not satisfactorily prove or disprove the claim. It is a substantial doubt and one within the range of probability as distinguished from pure speculation or remote possibility. It is not a means of reconciling actual conflict or a contradiction in the evidence. Mere suspicion or doubt as to the truth of any statements submitted, as distinguished from impeachment or contradiction by evidence or known facts, is not justifiable basis for denying the application of the reasonable doubt doctrine if the entire, complete record otherwise warrants invoking this doctrine. The reasonable doubt doctrine is also applicable even in the absence of official records, particularly if the basic incident allegedly arose under combat, or similarly strenuous conditions, and is consistent with the probable results of such known hardships.

[ 50 FR 34458, Aug. 26, 1985, as amended at 66 FR 45630, Aug. 29, 2001]

[ 55 FR 13527, Apr. 11, 1990; 55 FR 17530, Apr. 25, 1990, as amended at 55 FR 20148, May 15, 1990; 55 FR 25308, June 21, 1990; 57 FR 56993, Dec. 2, 1992; 58 FR 16360, Mar. 26, 1993; 58 FR 59366, Nov. 9, 1993; 59 FR 6218, Feb. 10, 1994; 59 FR 6901, Feb. 14, 1994; 66 FR 56613, Nov. 9, 2001; 76 FR 52574, Aug. 23, 2011; 77 FR 23129, Apr. 18, 2012; 84 FR 166, Jan. 18, 2019]

The provisions of this section apply except where an award was based on an act of commission or omission by the payee, or with his or her knowledge ( § 3.500(b)); there is a change in law or a Department of Veterans Affairs issue, or a change in interpretation of law or a Department of Veterans Affairs issue ( § 3.114); or the evidence establishes that service connection was clearly illegal. The provisions with respect to the date of discontinuance of benefits are applicable to running awards. Where the award has been suspended, and it is determined that no additional payments are in order, the award will be discontinued effective date of last payment.

Following the predetermination procedures specified in this paragraph and paragraph (d), (e), (f), (g) or (h) of this section, whichever is applicable, final action will be taken. If a predetermination hearing was not requested or if the beneficiary failed without good cause to report for a scheduled predetermination hearing, the final action will be based solely upon the evidence of record. Examples of good cause include, but are not limited to, the illness or hospitalization of the claimant or beneficiary, death of an immediate family member, etc. If a predetermination hearing was conducted, the final action will be based on evidence and testimony adduced at the hearing as well as the other evidence of record including any additional evidence obtained following the hearing pursuant to necessary development. Whether or not a predetermination hearing was conducted, a written notice of the final action shall be issued to the beneficiary and his or her representative, setting forth the reasons therefor and the evidence upon which it is based. Where a reduction or discontinuance of benefits is found warranted following consideration of any additional evidence submitted, the effective date of such reduction or discontinuance shall be as follows:

[ 26 FR 1569, Feb. 24, 1961, as amended at 27 FR 11886, Dec. 1, 1962; 39 FR 17222, May 14, 1974; 55 FR 13528, Apr. 11, 1990; 56 FR 65846, Dec. 19, 1991; 57 FR 56993, Dec. 2, 1992; 62 FR 51278, Sept. 30, 1997; 66 FR 21874, May 2, 2001; 67 FR 49586, July 31, 2002; 76 FR 4247, Jan. 25, 2011; 84 FR 167, Jan. 18, 2019]

Except as provided in § 3.251(a)(4), in any case where claim has not been filed by or on behalf of all dependents who may be entitled, the awards (original or amended) for those dependents who have filed claim will be made for all periods at the rates and in the same manner as though there were no other dependents. However, if the file reflects the existence of other dependents who have not filed claim and there is potential entitlement to benefits for a period prior to the date of filing claim, the award to a person who has filed claim will be made at the rate which would be payable if all dependents were receiving benefits. If at the expiration of the period allowed, claims have not been filed for such dependents, the full rate will be authorized for the first payee.

[ 29 FR 9564, July 15, 1964]

Diplomatic and consular officers of the Department of State are authorized to act as agents of the Department of Veterans Affairs and therefore a complete claim as set forth in § 3.160(a) or an intent to file a claim as set forth in § 3.155(b) or evidence submitted in support of a claim filed in a foreign country will be considered as filed in the Department of Veterans Affairs as of the date of receipt by the State Department representative.

Cross Reference:

Evidence from foreign countries. See § 3.202.

[ 26 FR 1569, Feb. 24, 1961, as amended at 79 FR 57695, Sept. 25, 2014]

§ 3.111 [Reserved]

In all cases where the amount to be paid under any award involves a fraction of a cent, the fractional part will be excluded.

[ 26 FR 1570, Feb. 24, 1961]

[ 27 FR 11886, Dec. 1, 1962, as amended at 55 FR 13529, Apr. 11, 1990; 62 FR 17706, Apr. 11, 1997; 65 FR 35282, June 2, 2000; 67 FR 49586, July 31, 2002; 76 FR 4247, Jan. 25, 2011; 84 FR 168, Jan. 18, 2019; 84 FR 4336, Feb. 15, 2019]

State Department as agent of Department of Veterans Affairs. See § 3.108. Change in status of dependents. See § 3.651.

[ 50 FR 25981, June 24, 1985, as amended at 71 FR 44918, Aug. 8, 2006]

An application on a form jointly prescribed by the Secretary and the Commissioner of Social Security filed with the Social Security Administration on or after January 1, 1957, will be considered a claim for death benefits, and to have been received in the Department of Veterans Affairs as of the date of receipt in Social Security Administration. The receipt of such an application (or copy thereof) by the Department of Veterans Affairs will not preclude a request for any necessary evidence.

[ 26 FR 1570, Feb. 24, 1961, as amended at 71 FR 44918, Aug. 8, 2006]

The following paragraphs describe the manner and methods in which a claim can be initiated and filed. The provisions of this section are applicable to all claims governed by part 3, with the exception that paragraph (b) of this section, regarding intent to file a claim, does not apply to supplemental claims.

Complete claim. See § 3.160(a). Effective dates. See § 3.400.

[ 79 FR 57695, Sept. 25, 2014, as amended at 84 FR 168, Jan. 18, 2019]

New evidence is evidence not previously part of the actual record before agency adjudicators.

Effective dates - general. See § 3.400. Correction of military records. See § 3.400(g).

[ 27 FR 11887, Dec. 1, 1962, as amended at 55 FR 20148, May 15, 1990; 55 FR 52275, Dec. 21, 1990; 58 FR 32443, June 10, 1993; 66 FR 45630, Aug. 29, 2001; 71 FR 52457, Sept. 6, 2006; 84 FR 169, Jan. 18, 2019; 84 FR 4336, Feb. 15, 2019; 86 FR 15414, Mar. 23, 2021]

For purposes of paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section, event means one or more incidents associated with places, types, and circumstances of service giving rise to disability.

After VA has issued a notice of decision, submission of information and evidence substantiating a claim must be accomplished through the proper filing of a review option in accordance with § 3.2500 on a form prescribed by the Secretary. New and relevant evidence may be submitted in connection with either the filing of a supplemental claim under § 3.2501 or the filing of a Notice of Disagreement with the Board under 38 CFR 20.202, on forms prescribed by the Secretary, and election of a Board docket that permits the filing of new evidence (see 38 CFR 20.302 and 20.303).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Date of receipt means the date on which a claim, information or evidence was received in the Department of Veterans Affairs, except as to specific provisions for claims or evidence received in the State Department ( § 3.108), or in the Social Security Administration ( §§ 3.153, 3.201), or Department of Defense as to initial claims filed at or prior to separation.

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The VA reports that by 2040 the women veteran population will increase to 18%, in contrast in 2000 the women veteran population just consisted of 4%. Among women veterans, 43% belonged to a minority group with the most being African American. There were more women with urban residency, however, the rural population is now increasing.

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Facts and Statistics

Women Veterans in Focus

Download the Infographic (PDF)

More than 2 Million Women Veterans live in the U.S. today.

Women are the fastest growing group in the Veteran population.

Women Veterans served across all military branches and divisions.

Projections for 2025:

Army: 916,948

Air Force: 464,069

Navy: 409,586

Marines: 124,169

Reserve: 157,385

Non-defense: 28,900

Women Veterans are racially and ethnically diverse.

43% of the women who used VHA health services in FY20 belonged to a racial or ethnic minority group.

3 of 4 Women Veterans who used VA health services in FY19 had and urban residence but the number of rural women is increasing.

No matter where she lives, every woman Veteran has access to the VA health system which provides care at 1,293 health care facilities, including 171 VA Medical Centers and 1,112 outpatient sites of care.

Every VA Medical Center nationwide has a Women Veterans Program Manager to advise and advocate for women Veterans and help coordinate all the services they may need, from primary care to specialized care for chronic conditions or reproductive health.

Every VA offers maternity care coordination. VA MaternityCare Coordinators understand women Veteran's unique needs and will support them through every stage of their pregnancy.

VHA provides the highest quality, state-of-the-art systems and healthcare equipment, including on-site mammography at 69 sites across the country.

VA Resources for Women

If you have questions or can't find what you're looking for, you can call, text, or chat online with the Women Veterans Call Center (WVCC) at 855-829-6636 to get help and find available resources and services in your area. Trained women representatives can also help you with issues such as:

Enrolling in VA health care if you have not already

Setting up a medical appointment in your area

Answering questions about eligibility (including questions about disability ratings) and other VA benefits like employment, education, and home loans

WVCC representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.

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US Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Download the Infographic (PDF) More than 2 Million Women Veterans live in the U.S. today. Women are the fastest growing group in the Veteran population. Women Veterans served across all military branches and divisions. Projections for 2025: Army: 916,948 Air Force: 464,069 Navy: 409,586 Marines: 124,169 Reserve: 157,385 Non-defense: 28,900 Women Veterans are racially and ethnically diverse.

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Throughout history, women typically served in non-combat and support roles in the military such as nurses, cooks, and laundresses. In 1948, women were granted veteran benefits. By 1993, women were allowed to pilot fighter jets and serve on combat ships. By 2016, all positions of the military are open to women, and they are the fastest growing veteran population. There are now over 2 million women veterans in the U.S.

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A short history of women in the U.S. military