Use capitals when referring to US forces – for example, “US Army, the Air Force” – but not for other nations: “the French army.”
Anyone who has served in the military and has been released from active duty is considered a veteran; anyone still attached is a service member.
Members of the Reserve Officer Training Corps on campus are cadets. ROTC is an acceptable acronym.
“Veteran” is a term used to describe someone with military experience. “Combat veteran” refers to someone who served in combat.
Some student veterans want to blend in with civilian life. They will share their military experiences with you if they want to, but please respect their privacy.