What does Direct Service Connection mean?

Direct Service Connection refers to a disability that was incurred or aggravated during an individual's military service. This means that there is a clear and established link between the service member's time in the military and their current disability. To qualify for benefits based on Direct Service Connection, it is essential for the service member to demonstrate that their condition arose as a result of their military duties or was worsened by their service.

In contrast, the other options discuss scenarios that do not qualify for Direct Service Connection. Disabilities stemming from pre-existing conditions are not considered directly related to military service unless there is evidence that they were aggravated during that service. Conditions unrelated to military service do not meet the criteria for Direct Service Connection either, as eligibility for benefits is specifically tied to the relationship between the military service and the disability. General pension eligibility does not accurately describe Direct Service Connection, as pensions address financial needs rather than specific disabilities tied to service.