Introduction -- Who is a veteran? -- Preparing to depart the military -- Military retirement -- Veterans health care and VA hospitals -- TRICARE health care program -- CHAMPVA health care program -- Disability benefits and compensation -- Life insurance benefits during and after your military career -- Veterans home loan program -- Veteran scholarships, grants, and aid -- Educational benefits and training programs -- The post-9/11 GI bill -- Assistance for homeless veterans -- Burial, funeral, and memorial benefits -- Benefits for surviving spouses and families of veterans -- Conclusion.