The Dilemma of Identifying as a 'Disabled Veteran'

Being a disabled veteran carries a unique set of challenges and recognition within military and veteran circles. However, the term 'disabled veteran' is often associated with individuals who have service-connected disabilities. This article explores the nuances of identifying oneself as a disabled veteran, especially when disabilities arise from non-service-related events.

Understanding the Terms

In military and veteran circles, a 'disabled veteran' specifically refers to someone with a rated service-connected disability. This usually involves a disability rating of between 10 and 100. The rating process is stringent and closely tied to the conditions experienced during military service. However, not all disabilities are service-related. In such cases, the classification becomes more complex.

A Personal Perspective

I served on active duty for six years and have since undergone numerous podiatric surgeries, making me a permanent blue tag driver. Despite being a veteran and feeling permanently disabled, I do not consider myself a 'disabled veteran.' My disabilities are not service-related, which significantly impacts my self-identification and the recognition I receive from others.

Rating and Reevaluation

My initial disability rating was at 30, with one health issue rated at 0. Over time, my conditions worsened, and I received a 40 rating, which I appealed and was eventually given a 90 rating. Later, after two surgeries for a service-connected injury, I received a 100 PT rating, indicating both permanent and total disability.

SSDI Application and Complexities

I applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) due to my non-service-connected Parkinson's disease. The VA and Social Security Administration systems were not linked at the time, complicating the application process. However, the connection between the two systems has since been established, streamlining the application process for veterans applying for SSDI who have already received a VA disability rating.

Personal and Professional Observations

My experience with non-service-related disabilities has led me to always make clear distinctions when referring to myself as a disabled veteran. Over time, as I received more service-connected ratings, this became less of an issue. I believe it is crucial to be honest about the origins of one's disabilities to avoid misrepresenting one's service.

Embellishing Service

There are many veterans who are disabled due to non-service-related conditions. To call oneself a 'disabled veteran' can lead others to believe you have a service-connected disability, especially when there might be a lack of clear distinction. This is not unique to the 'disabled veteran' term. For instance, "Vietnam Veteran" was a term that, over the years, was often used to refer to anyone who served during the Vietnam era, regardless of where they actually served. The VA's recent release of the Vietnam War Veterans Act also fails to distinguish between those who fought in Vietnam and those who supported the effort from the homeland.

It is important to remember that embellishing one's service can be misleading and inappropriate. Being proud of one's service does not mean exaggerating the details. I am proud of my service, even though I did not serve in the Vietnam theatre as had I originally hoped. Therefore, I refer to myself as a 'Vietnam Era Veteran' to maintain the accuracy of my service record.