(a) “Veteran” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article.
(b) With respect to any State program of benefits, rights, or privileges applicable to a veteran under this Code, “veteran” includes, if the individual is eligible under 38 U.S.C. § 101, a member of the commissioned corps of:
(1) the Public Health Service; or
(2) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or its predecessor, the Coast and Geodetic Survey.