As used in Code Sections 38-4-51 and 38-4-52, the term "war veterans" means any veterans who were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions and who served on active duty in the armed forces of the United States or on active duty in a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, including the National Guard, during wartime or during the period beginning January 31, 1955, and ending on May 7, 1975.