From Robert Longley,
Your Guide to US Government Info.
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Since the time of the Civil War, veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces have been given some degree of preference in appointments to U.S. government jobs. Recognizing their sacrifice, Congress enacted laws to prevent veterans seeking Federal employment from being penalized for their time in military service. Veterans’ preference recognizes the economic loss suffered by citizens who have served their country in uniform, restores veterans to a favorable competitive position for Government employment, and acknowledges the larger obligation owed to disabled veterans.

Eligible veterans receive many advantages in Federal employment, including preference for initial employment and a higher retention standing in the event of layoffs. However, the veterans’ preference laws do not guarantee the veteran a job, nor do they give veterans preference in internal agency actions such as promotion, transfer, reassignment, and reinstatement.

Persons who served on active duty in the United States Military and were separated under honorable conditions, you may be eligible for veterans’ preference. To receive preference if your service began after October 15, 1976, you must have a Campaign Badge, Expeditionary Medal, or a service-connected disability.

Complete information for veterans seeking jobs or veterans already employed by the U.S. government can be obtained from the Veterans Employment Information web page, maintained by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.

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