(b) Upon return and reentry to the office or employment the officer or employee shall have all of the rights and privileges in, connected with, or arising out of the office or employment which he or she would have enjoyed if he or she had not been absent therefrom; provided, however, the officer or employee shall not be entitled to sick leave, vacation or salary for the period during which he or she was on leave from that governmental service and in the service of the armed forces of the United States. If the office or position has been abolished or otherwise has ceased to exist during his or her absence, he or she shall be reinstated in a position of like seniority, status and pay if the position exists, or to a comparable vacant position for which he or she is qualified.