What defines a Blue Water Navy veteran?

A Blue Water Navy veteran is specifically defined as a veteran who served in the waters off the coast of Vietnam. This designation pertains to sailors who were assigned to ships that operated in the territorial seas of Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The distinction is important due to specific eligibility for benefits related to exposure to Agent Orange, a herbicide used during the conflict that has been associated with various health issues.

The legal definition regarding Blue Water veterans was clarified in recent years, and it helps to differentiate between those who served on land or in the inland waters of Vietnam and those who were on the navy vessels in the ocean. This is significant because different exposure risk levels to harmful substances, like Agent Orange, are recognized for those in different locations.

The other options refer to different service locations and circumstances, but do not fit the specific definition of Blue Water Navy veterans, emphasizing the clarity needed in identifying veterans for the purposes of certain benefits.