On Veterans Day, we honor and recognize the sacrifices of Swansboro’s veterans, especially those who served in foreign wars. This day offers a special opportunity to reflect on their courage and dedication, whether in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or other international conflicts.
Here are some key statistics on our veterans as of 2024:
- World War II: The “Greatest Generation” is rapidly fading; approximately 66,143 World War II veterans remain nationwide, down from the millions who served. These veterans, now mostly in their 90s, are a reminder of the sacrifices made in the 1940s to protect freedom globally.
- Korean War: About 1.1 million Korean War veterans are living today. These brave individuals served in the “Forgotten War,” which was pivotal in shaping the Cold War.
- Vietnam War: Approximately 5.5 million veterans from the Vietnam era are alive. Their experiences and sacrifices are a powerful part of American history, and this group remains one of the largest veteran populations today.
- Gulf War: With around 3 million veterans from the Gulf War period (1990-2001), this group is younger, though they share a legacy of perseverance during a time of complex global conflict.
- Iraq and Afghanistan: These post-9/11 veterans number about 3.4 million, representing ongoing commitments to peace and security across the world.
Altogether, veterans make up nearly 16.5 million people across the U.S., a testament to the spirit of service that runs deep in our communities. On this Veterans Day, the Swansboro community extends heartfelt gratitude to these men and women. Let us honor their service by remembering their stories and preserving their legacies for future generations.
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