Here you will find answers to some of the questions we are most frequently asked. Do you have a question about OCV that is not listed below? Contact us at 614-777-6040 or send us an email at contact@ohiocombatveterans.org and we would love to answer it!

Q: What exactly is Ohio Combat Veterans?

A: Ohio Combat Veterans is an organization that was founded by veterans who understand that transitioning to civilian life after serving in a combat zone can be difficult sometimes. Ohio Combat Veterans is run by veterans who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan and have had to make that transition. We help each other any way we can, whether it is applying for benefits, providing help finding a job, or simply offering a healthy social outlet so veterans can find that comaraderie that is lost when you leave active-duty.

Q: Is Ohio Combat Veterans run by the government?

A: Ohio Combat Veterans is not a government agency, nor affiliated with the government. It is a nonprofit, charitable organization run by veterans who have served in the Global War on Terrorism. 

Q: Does it cost anything to be a part of Ohio Combat Veterans?

A: Ohio Combat Veterans does not cost you anything at all. There are no dues and the events offered each month are free to all veterans of the Global War on Terrorism. The only time a veteran may need to spend money would be if an event was held at a festival, etc.: Your admission would be covered by OCV but you would have to purchase your own food, drink, etc.

Q: How is Ohio Combat Veterans funded?

A: We receive donations from both individuals and organizations that support our cause. If you are interested in donating, you can find more information by clicking here.

Q: What are the requirements to join Ohio Combat Veterans?

A: We are here to help combat veterans transition to civilian life after serving in the Global War on Terrorism. Many organizations/agencies have their own definitions and criteria for what they think a veteran must have accomplished in order to be eligible for their services. Ours is simple: if you had combat boots on ground in Afghanistan, Iraq, or Kuwait for one day in support of the Global War on Terrorism. It does not matter how long you were in theater, how many medals you have, or even what you were discharged for.

Q: I was not awarded the Combat Action Ribbon, or Combat Infantry/Action Badge, can I still join Ohio Combat Veterans?

A: Absolutely. We are veterans who have served over there just like you. We understand the "Front line" is blurry and that some veterans are returning without medals they should have received and vice-versa. We are not concerned about how little or how much combat you saw over there. It does not matter if you were a grunt patrolling the streets or part of a postal unit that made sure letters were received from home, you are welcome amongst the ranks of Ohio Combat Veterans.

Q: How do I get started?

A: You can get started with OCV by joining through the website, then coming to an event. At your first event we ask you to bring your DD214 and a photo ID so we can verify that you served in a Global War on Terrorism theatre. We do not make a copy or keep any of your personal information. One of our staff will make a note that you have been "verified", then you will not have to bring any further documentation to any other events. The only personal information we keep on you is the information you share with us when you sign-up through the website. It is important that we have the correct information on you so that we can share important information with you. We will never share your information with a third party.

Q: I don`t feel comfortable being around other people, would I fit in at an event?

A: Many of us felt the same way when we first came back. The civilian world is a lot different then the military world. The military uses different terminology and acts differently than most civilians. Most veterans find they feel right at home when they come to an event. We recommend making our monthly social your first event. It`s a nice way to ease in and see what OCV is all about. 

Q: Do I have to attend every event?

A: Not at all. Each month we put out a new calendar of events. You can attend one or all of them, depending on what interests you. But you are more than welcome to come to all of them.