Wounded in action (WIA) is a military casualty classification used to describe combatants who have been wounded while fighting in a combat zone but have survived their injuries. It is distinct from killed in action (KIA), in which the combatant dies from their wounds.
Usage
The term is used by armed forces around the world, including the Indian Armed Forces, to classify and report battlefield casualties. Personnel classified as wounded in action may receive medical treatment and, depending on the severity of their wounds and the circumstances, may be awarded gallantry or wound medals such as the Purple Heart (United States) or mentioned in official casualty reports.
Related terms
- Killed in action (KIA)
- Missing in action (MIA)
- Prisoner of war (POW)
- Casualty