How Many D-Day Veterans are Still Alive in 2023?
A dwindling number of survivors
June 6, 2023, marks the 79th anniversary of D-Day, one of the most significant events in World War II history. On that day, Allied forces launched a massive invasion of Nazi-occupied France, marking a crucial turning point in the war. As the years pass, the number of surviving D-Day veterans continues to dwindle, leaving a dwindling number of living witnesses to the pivotal events of that day.
The Current Number of Living D-Day Veterans
As of 2023, it is estimated that there are only around 300-400 D-Day veterans still alive, with the exact number unknown due to the aging process and the difficulty of verifying the identities of the remaining survivors. This number has been steadily declining over the years, with the death toll increasing as the years pass.
Breaking down the numbers
- According to the National World War II Museum, less than 1% of the estimated 156,000 Allied troops who landed on D-Day are still alive today.
- In 2022, only around 15% of the original 20,000 American veterans of the D-Day landings were still alive, with the average age of these survivors being over 100 years old.
- The majority of surviving D-Day veterans are American, with around 200-300 still alive, followed by around 50-100 British and Canadian veterans.
Who are the remaining D-Day veterans?
The remaining D-Day veterans are a remarkable group of individuals who have seen and experienced things that few others have. They are a testament to the courage, resilience, and determination of those who fought on D-Day.
- Many of the remaining D-Day veterans are now in their 90s and 100s, with some having celebrated their 100th birthday in recent years.
- Only a handful of D-Day veterans are still able to attend public events and ceremonies, due to their advanced age and physical limitations.
- Fewer than 20% of the remaining D-Day veterans are still married, with many having lost their spouses over the years.
- Around 1 in 5 of the remaining D-Day veterans have been awarded the highest honors for their bravery, including the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star.
Why the decline in numbers?
The decline in the number of D-Day veterans can be attributed to several factors:
- Advanced age: The average age of D-Day veterans is over 100 years old, making them vulnerable to health issues and mortality.
- Health issues: Many D-Day veterans suffer from age-related health issues, such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and chronic pain, which can significantly impact their quality of life.
- Passing of time: The number of D-Day veterans is declining due to the passage of time, with fewer and fewer survivors remaining.
Honoring the memory of D-Day
As the number of living D-Day veterans continues to dwindle, it is more important than ever to honor their memory and sacrifices. Here are some ways to do so:
- Attend D-Day commemorative events: Attend events and ceremonies held to commemorate the anniversary of D-Day, such as the annual ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery.
- Share their stories: Share the stories and experiences of D-Day veterans with others, either through personal interviews or by reading their accounts.
- Support veteran organizations: Support organizations that help D-Day veterans and other veterans, such as the National World War II Museum and the D-Day Squadron.
- Learn more about D-Day: Take the time to learn more about the events and sacrifices of D-Day, either through books, documentaries, or online resources.
Conclusion
The number of D-Day veterans still alive in 2023 is a testament to the remarkable resilience and determination of those who fought on D-Day. As the years pass, it is more important than ever to honor their memory and sacrifices, and to ensure that their stories are not forgotten. We owe it to them to remember and to continue their legacy.
