As used in this article, unless the content clearly indicates otherwise:
(a) "Authority" means the West Virginia Military Authority.
(b) "BRIM" means the West Virginia Board of Risk and Insurance Management.
(c) "Guard" means West Virginia National Guard, including its army and air components.
(d) "Employee" means any person who, within the at-will employment relationship, is hired to perform duties related to national security, homeland security and other military-related or -sponsored programs.
(e) "PEIA" means Public Employees Insurance Act.
(f) "PERS" means Public Employees Retirement System.