Final answer:
Historically, Veterans Administration policies have evolved, impacting the qualification for Veterans preference. The last war for which active duty qualifies for Veterans preference is not explicitly provided in the available materials, but historical context regarding policy changes, especially post-World War II, dictates how veterans' discharges and qualifications for benefits are determined.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question addresses the historical context of military service and the eligibility for Veterans preference, particularly in relation to the qualification period defined by an active duty 'war'.
While specific details of the last war qualifying for Veterans preference are not given in the provided reference materials, one can discuss the changes in Veterans Administration policies over time.
For instance, Veterans Administration policies have evolved, impacting how discharges and qualifications for benefits are determined. Notably, the blue discharge was disbanded in 1947 and replaced with an undesirable discharge category.
This category was particularly detrimental to gay and lesbian service members post- World War II, when the Department of Defense required the expulsion of known homosexuals, which was relaxed during the Korean War but resumed after. These social and administrative policies shaped the military service landscape.
Veterans who have served in periods of conflict, such as World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War, face different hurdles when claiming their benefits. This situation is further complicated by historical mishandlings, government mishaps, and speculators' schemes, which impacted veterans' rights and eligibility for pensions.
Understanding the historical treatment and evolving policies towards veterans helps contextualize the challenges and barriers faced by different cohorts of service members in regard to Veterans preference eligibility.