John:

I just got back from my tour of duty in Iraq. I'm thinking I probably qualify for the combat zone exclusion. Is that true?

You:

I can help you with that. How long were you in Iraq? And by the way, welcome back.

John:

Oh, thanks. We left in March 2023 and just returned.

You:

It must have been quite an experience.

John:

Uh, yeah, to say the least.

You:

Were you in Iraq during your whole tour of duty?

John:

Actually no, I was in Saudi Arabia for March and April of 2023. Then I was in Iraq from May to part of December. But I spent some time in the hospital too for a good part of December.

You:

Were you hospitalized for a combat-related injury?

John:

Yeah, I was. I took some shrapnel in my leg in December and was hospitalized in Kuwait for that whole month.

You:

Oh I'm sorry to hear about your injury. Hopefully, you received all your active duty pay while you were gone?

John:

Yes, well, the checks were sent to my wife. I also received my imminent danger pay, so I was really happy about that.