All officers and employees of the state, entering the military service of the United States since September 16, 1940, shall be restored, upon proper application, to the former position or employment or office held with the state at the time of entering military service, or reinstated to a position of like seniority, status and pay when the officer or employee is relieved from the military service, upon honorable discharge or discharge upon honorable conditions.
La. Public Officers and Employees § 42:401