Concerns for term Government Employees

I am currently a term DOD civilian whose term is coming to an end very soon. I've been working for the government for 6 years & still don't have a permanent position due to not having any prior military history. I transitioned from the old Walter Reed Hospital in DC to Ft Belvoir Community Hospital in VA. This is my second term position, usually when I apply for permanent jobs I don't make the list due to veterans preferences & priority placement employees. Recently a permanent position come open for the job I am currently working & didn't make the list due to veterans, how is this possible? I am fully aware of veterans needing jobs & from what I've been told soon my position will become permanent but I will have to reapply in which I probably won't make the list do to veterans applying.