Veterans Day 2023: November 11
*UPDATED GRAPHIC
Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 making it an annual observance, and it became a national holiday in 1938. Sixteen years later, then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name to Veterans Day to honor all those who served their country during war or peacetime. On this day, the nation honors military veterans — living and dead — with parades and other observances across the country and a ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
The following facts are made possible by the invaluable responses to U.S. Census Bureau surveys. We appreciate the public’s cooperation as we continuously measure America’s people, places and economy.
Veteran Population
16.2 million
The number of military veterans in the United States in 2022, representing 6.2% of the total civilian population age 18 and over.
1.7 million
The number of female veterans in the United States in 2022, representing 10.3% of the total veteran population.
0.8%
The percentage of veterans in 2022 who served in World War II. Additionally, 4.1% of veterans served in the Korean War, 33.6% in the Vietnam War, 24.4% in the first Gulf War (August 1990 to August 2001), and 26.3% in the second Gulf War (September 2001 or later).
8.6%
The percentage of veterans in 2022 who were Hispanic or Latino (of any race). Additionally, 72.3% of veterans were White alone (not Hispanic or Latino), 12.4% African American, 2.1% Asian American, 0.8% American Indian or Alaska Native, 0.2% Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, and 2.8% Some Other Race. The percentages include only those who reported a single race.
26.5%
The percentage of veteran age 75 and older in 2022. At the other end of the age spectrum, 8.5% of veterans were younger than age 35. Source: 2022 American Community Survey 1-year estimates
More on Veterans
This detailed profile of the U.S. veteran population in 2022 includes data for:
- Period of service.
- Demographics: age, sex, race and Hispanic or Latino origin.
- Median income.
- Educational attainment.
- Employment status.
- Poverty status.
- Disability status.
Source: 2022 American Community Survey 1-year estimates
Related News Products
Past Facts for Features
Stats for Stories
Reports
Graphics
Statistics in Schools
Blogs
Related Info
|
