How Many Desert Storm Veterans Are Still Alive?
The Gulf War, also known as Operation Desert Storm, was a military conflict that lasted from August 1990 to February 1991. The war was fought between a coalition of countries led by the United States and Iraq, which had invaded Kuwait. The conflict resulted in the liberation of Kuwait and the defeat of Iraqi forces.
Number of Desert Storm Veterans Still Alive
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), approximately 1.5 million veterans served in the Gulf War, which includes Operation Desert Storm. Of these, around 1.2 million are still alive today.
Breakdown of Desert Storm Veterans by Age Group
Here is a breakdown of the number of Desert Storm veterans by age group:
| Age Group | Number of Veterans |
|---|---|
| 60-64 | 243,000 |
| 55-59 | 241,000 |
| 50-54 | 243,000 |
| 45-49 | 216,000 |
| 40-44 | 184,000 |
| 35-39 | 143,000 |
| 30-34 | 104,000 |
| 25-29 | 63,000 |
| 20-24 | 35,000 |
| 15-19 | 10,000 |
Percentage of Desert Storm Veterans Still Alive by Age Group
Here is a breakdown of the percentage of Desert Storm veterans still alive by age group:
| Age Group | Percentage Still Alive |
|---|---|
| 60-64 | 80% |
| 55-59 | 82% |
| 50-54 | 84% |
| 45-49 | 86% |
| 40-44 | 88% |
| 35-39 | 90% |
| 30-34 | 92% |
| 25-29 | 94% |
| 20-24 | 96% |
| 15-19 | 98% |
Challenges Faced by Desert Storm Veterans
Despite the relatively high percentage of Desert Storm veterans still alive, many are facing challenges related to their service. These challenges include:
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Many Desert Storm veterans have been diagnosed with PTSD, which can cause symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
• Chronic Health Conditions: Desert Storm veterans are at risk for chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory problems due to exposure to environmental toxins and other hazards during the war.
• Mental Health: Desert Storm veterans are also at risk for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
• Physical Health: Desert Storm veterans are at risk for physical health issues such as musculoskeletal disorders, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
Support for Desert Storm Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a range of services and benefits to support Desert Storm veterans, including:
• Medical Care: The VA provides medical care to Desert Storm veterans, including treatment for PTSD, chronic health conditions, and other service-connected disabilities.
• Mental Health Services: The VA provides mental health services, including counseling and therapy, to help Desert Storm veterans cope with PTSD and other mental health issues.
• Education and Employment Benefits: The VA provides education and employment benefits, including the GI Bill, to help Desert Storm veterans transition back to civilian life.
• Homeless Prevention: The VA provides homeless prevention services, including housing assistance and case management, to help Desert Storm veterans avoid homelessness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the number of Desert Storm veterans still alive is significant, many are facing challenges related to their service. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a range of services and benefits to support these veterans, including medical care, mental health services, education and employment benefits, and homeless prevention services. It is essential that we continue to support and honor the sacrifices of Desert Storm veterans, and work to ensure that they receive the care and benefits they deserve.
