Exactly, in fact that definition is used by the government as well for job qualifications, benefits, etc. However, it is not to be confused with VFW (Veteran of Foreign Wars)...

>Nick,
>
>I think the standard definition of veteran is anyone who has successfully completed a tour of duty in the armed forces and been honorably discharged.
>
>
>>>A LOT late but hats off to Jim and Dan. From a fellow vet:
>>>
>>><- Strategic Air Command, USAF, 1978-1982
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>>A little late, but here is a Toast to my Fellow Vets!!!
>>
>>Just curious about the veteran definition in US.
>>
>>The Google search brings this:
>>http://www.google.ca/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=define%3Aveteran
>>
>>Most of definitions point that veteran is somebody who have seen the active service - war time, any combat operations, etc. The same is true in Russia.
>>
>>However some references say:
>>
>>International term similar to "master" in the U.S. According to the IAAF, men become "veterans" on their 40th birthday; women, on their 35th birthday.
>>http://www.runnersworld.com/home/0,1300,1-0-0-439,00.html
>>
>>I don't consider myself as a veteran, however I have served 2 years in Russian Naval Air Forces in the time of Cold War. :)
>>
>>In any case congratulations to all veterans!