The Lasting Legacy of World War II: How Many Veterans Are Still Alive?
As the world continues to remember and honor the sacrifices made during World War II, a question remains on the minds of many: how many veterans from the war are still alive? The answer is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who served during one of the most significant conflicts in human history.
The Original Number of WWII Veterans
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 16 million Americans served in the military during World War II. Of those, approximately 12 million were honorably discharged, with about 4 million still living in the United States in 2019.
The Number of WWII Veterans Still Alive Today
As of 2022, the American Veterans Center estimates that there are approximately 325,000 to 350,000 World War II veterans still alive in the United States. This number is constantly decreasing as the average age of these veterans is 93.2 years old, with some being in their late 90s and early 100s.
A Breakdown of WWII Veterans by Age Group
Here is a breakdown of the estimated number of WWII veterans still alive by age group:
- 90-94 years old: approximately 110,000-120,000
- 85-89 years old: approximately 70,000-80,000
- 80-84 years old: approximately 40,000-50,000
- 75-79 years old: approximately 20,000-30,000
- 70-74 years old: approximately 10,000-20,000
- 65-69 years old: approximately 5,000-10,000
- 60-64 years old: approximately 2,000-5,000
- 55-59 years old: approximately 1,000-2,000
- 50-54 years old: fewer than 1,000
Racial and Ethnic Breakdown of WWII Veterans
The racial and ethnic breakdown of WWII veterans is as follows:
- White: approximately 280,000-310,000 (85%-90% of total)
- Black: approximately 15,000-20,000 (4%-5% of total)
- Asian/Pacific Islander: approximately 5,000-10,000 (1%-2% of total)
- American Indian/Alaska Native: approximately 2,000-5,000 (<1% of total)
- Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: approximately 1,000-2,000 (<1% of total)
- Other/Multiple: approximately 5,000-10,000 (<2% of total)
The Importance of Preserving WWII History and Legacy
As the number of WWII veterans continues to dwindle, it is essential that we preserve their stories, experiences, and legacies for future generations. The importance of doing so cannot be overstated:
- Educational purposes: The experiences and sacrifices of WWII veterans serve as a valuable lesson for students, providing a unique perspective on the consequences of war and the importance of international cooperation.
- Historical significance: WWII was a pivotal moment in world history, and preserving the memories and stories of those who served is crucial for understanding the context and implications of the war.
- Commemoration and tribute: Honoring the sacrifices of WWII veterans provides a tangible way to acknowledge their bravery and service, ensuring that their contributions are not forgotten.
Efforts to Preserve WWII History and Legacy
Several organizations and initiatives are working to preserve WWII history and legacy, including:
- The National WWII Museum: Located in New Orleans, Louisiana, the museum features interactive exhibits, personal artifacts, and oral histories to tell the story of the war.
- The American Veterans Center: The center works to preserve the stories and experiences of American veterans, including those from WWII, through oral history interviews, documentaries, and educational programs.
- The Veterans History Project: The Library of Congress’s Veterans History Project collects and preserves the stories and experiences of American veterans, including those from WWII, through written accounts, photographs, and audio/visual recordings.
Conclusion
As the number of WWII veterans continues to decrease, it is essential that we recognize the significance of their service and sacrifices. By preserving their stories, experiences, and legacies, we can ensure that the lessons and memories of World War II are passed down to future generations.
