The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"DD-214." A United States Department of Defense Report of Separation Form 214 or a similarly effective form issued by the Department of Defense relating to separation from military service.

"Private employer." A sole proprietor, corporation, partnership, limited liability company or any other legal entity, including nonprofits, with more than one employee.

"Soldier." A person who served or hereafter serves in the armed forces of the United States, or in any women's organization officially connected therewith, during any war or armed conflict in which the United States engaged and who was released from active duty under honorable conditions, other than from periods of active duty for training, or with an honorable discharge from such service, or a person who so served or hereafter serves in the armed forces of the United States, or in any women's organization officially connected therewith, since July 27, 1953, including service in Vietnam, and who has an honorable discharge from such service. Qualifying periods of service during a war or armed conflict, for purposes of this definition, will be designated by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

"Spouse of a disabled veteran." The spouse of a veteran who has been classified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs' Veterans Benefits Administration as having a permanent total disability and is a United States citizen.

"Surviving spouse." A spouse of a deceased soldier.

"Veteran." An individual who has served in the armed forces of the United States, including a reserve component and National Guard, and who has been discharged or released from the service under conditions other than dishonorable.

"Veterans' preference employment policy." A voluntary policy adopted by a private employer for hiring, promoting or retaining a veteran, a spouse of a disabled veteran or a surviving spouse over another qualified applicant or employee.