When World War I broke out in 1917, students began leaving college for the service. After November 11, 1918, when the armistice was signed, many of the discharged servicemen found their way back to the college campus. The people and the Legislature of South Dakota felt there was a responsibility of the state to give these people financial assistance. The South Dakota Legislature of 1919 passed what become known as the "Veteran's Free Tuition Law," with appropriation of $15,000 to pay the veterans tuition. This support continued through 1920. / On December 8, 1941, the United States entered World War II. A large number of the students were once again leaving college and going into military service. While crucial battles of the war still raged on the world fronts, the first servicemen began appearing on the campus during the spring of 1944. The G.I. Bill (Public Law 346) became effective June 22, 1944. Under this law, veterans who met eligibility requirements could receive education or training at government expense, readjustment allowances for unemployment and self-employment, and guaranteed or insured loans for homes, farms, or businesses. The G.I. Bill benefited millions of veterans in their efforts to readjust successfully to postwar living. The education and training program reached its cut-off point on July 25, 1951. Only veterans actually in training on that date or those who had interrupted their training for valid reasons were allowed to continue afterward. Under the program, WWII veterans could go to school or college, or train on-the-job or on the farm, with the Government paying all expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and supplies. G.I. Bill training for WWII veterans came to an end in 1956. On July 16, 1952, a new G.I. Bill was passed, providing benefits for veterans who served during the Korean conflict period. / The Vocational Rehabilitation Act (Public Law 16) came into effect on March 24, 1943. It provided an opportunity for disabled WWII veterans to train for jobs that they could hold. Veterans training under this act received the same rates of subsistence as those under the G.I. Bill. Disabled veterans were able to start training any time after discharge, but had to complete it by July 25, 1956. / South Dakota State University had many students who were affected by the passage of the above laws. The Veterans Advising office was set up following World War II to assist the veterans in making the transition to college, as well as assist them with paperwork and monetary support.