[masraum]

I'd say that anyone that served is a vet (although I'm not sure I have an opinion about the dishonorable part).

It takes every member of the military for the military to be successful. Also, just because someone wasn't called to serve in a time of war doesn't lessen the fact that they signed up and were ready to serve. (giving folks the benefit of doubt).

Yes, being in something whether it was war, a conflict or even just attacked by rebels does make you stand out a bit against the folks that were lucky enough not to have participated. But since wars/conflicts/etc... aren't scheduled....

If someone signed up, then they deserve the recognition (assuming they didn't end up as traitors).