What does “in the line of duty” mean?

Category: VA Medical Benefits For Veterans

Any injury or illness that occurred or was aggravated during the time you were on active duty is an injury or illness that occurred “in the line of duty”.  For example, injuries you sustained in a Humvee accident while training are considered injuries that occurred in the line of duty.

However, any injury or illness that resulted from your own misconduct or abuse of alcohol or drugs will not be considered “in the line of duty.” In most cases, your claim for service-connected disability will be denied if the disability was a result of your own misconduct or abuse of alcohol or drugs.