As used in sections 42.002 to 42.135 and section 143.1001 unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the following terms mean:
(1) "Commission", the Missouri veterans' commission created by section 42.007;
(2) "Executive director", the executive director of the Missouri veterans' commission, or his designee, under section 42.012;
(3) "Missouri veterans' cemeteries", the property and facilities established and maintained pursuant to section 42.012;
(4) "Missouri veterans' homes", the facilities established and maintained pursuant to section 42.100;
(5) "Veteran", any person defined as a veteran by the United States Department of Veterans' Affairs or its successor agency.