The list of the official U.S. military “War Eras” as recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Department of Defense (DoD), and most veteran‑service organizations. These eras are used for benefits, medals, service qualification, and veteran recognition programs, including the banner program.
Gulf War Era:
August 2, 1990 – Present
- Operation Desert Shield
- Operation Desert Storm
- Operation Iraqi Freedom
- Operation Enduring Freedom
- Operation New Dawn
- Global War on Terrorism
Panama Era:
December 20, 1989 – January 31, 1990
Lebanon/Grenada Era:
August 24, 1982 – July 31, 1984
Vietnam War:
- November 1, 1955 – May 7, 1975 (VA official era)
- August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975 (for those who served outside Vietnam)
Korean War:
June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955
World War II:
December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946
World War I:
April 6, 1917 – November 11, 1918
(Extended to April 1, 1920 for Russia service)