How Many D-Day Veterans Left? An Update on the Final Counts
June 6th, 2023 marked the 79th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal moment in World War II when Allied forces embarked on a massive amphibious invasion of Nazi-occupied France. As we salute the bravery and sacrifices of those who took part, we must also acknowledge that the number of surviving veterans is dwindling at a rapid pace.
Final Counts: The D-DAY Veterans’ Journey Down
As of January 2023, it was estimated that only around 200-300 World War II veterans who were serving on D-Day, landing on Omaha Beach or invading Normandy, remained with us. This figure continues to decline as we continue to lose these veterans with each passing year. Born between 1923-1927, many had already reached their mid to late 90s before their passing.
| Decade | Estimated Remaining Veter | % of TotalVeterans |
|---|---|---|
| 1920s (born 1920s) | 1/3 | 1,500/4,380 |
| 1922-1924 (65-67 years old | 1/6 to 1/7 of the original 40th Infantry Division | 133-143 |
| Early 1920s – Late 1920 | 1/2 and 1/5 estimated remaining | 4500-5500 |
| 1924 | 1/24 to 1/19 | 200-219 |
The Current Scene: A Snapshot
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the sheer improbability of surviving till today. Many who shared in the horrors and intensity of D-Day faced grave risks, injuries, illnesses, and the ever- present threat of death. After the war, the path to recovery was fraught, and the psychological trauma some veterans experienced was long to heal.
Current Trend: The Rate of Their Passing
The annual dropout rate for D-Day veteran estimates has been alarming.
- 2021/2022: Approximately 50-60% died
- 2023: Estimated more than 100 veterans dying each month
With age being the primary factor affecting mortality, it is almost inevitable that the remaining troops will continue to decline without any significant changes. Only a handful fewer than 200 surviving personnel are expected to make next year’s anniversary celebrations the last.
Riding the Wave of DDay Legacy
As these war heroes fade into memory, it is crucial we pause to acknowledge their ultimate selflessness. Serving on D-Day represented tremendous courage, as those stationed in the frontlines pushed through the chaos to contribute to the Allied forces victory.
Preservation in History
Efforts undertaken to preserve the tapes of their testimony and experiences will enable this legacy to endure long-term. The Oral History Program administered at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans includes numerous interviews with these respected individuals. Additionally, in-person interviews and document compilation will continue to enhance overall historical understanding.
Current Statistics: The Global Footprint
To appreciate what these veterans have seen & done, consider the context as follows:
- The population of the United States stood at approximately 134-136 million (world population: 2 billion)
- About one million American soldiers deployed. (1/9 USA population)
- From ’42 to ’46 U.S. military force 12.2 million + (1/4 people)
Conclusion
Within the next few years or decades, the era marking D-Day will lose almost all of the D-Day veterans. Our immediate duty is to safeguard information, stories, memories gathered through these remarkable souls—before they disappear, carried by the wind like ghosts.
