Veterans articles

Get unbiased data and visuals on military recruitment, veterans, border security, and foreign affairs. These reports use government sources to help Americans understand national security and defense.

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DEFENSE & VETERANS 03 Army Veteran Military Soldier Enlisted Line Up
Defense and security
How does the government support veterans?

Over 93% of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ annual spending funds pensions, compensation, medical care, and education programs for veterans.

DEFENSE & VETERANS 03 Army Veteran Military Soldier Enlisted Bars Down
Defense and security
Is military enlistment down?

Enlistment numbers have steadily dropped for the past 40 years. More than 148,318 people enlisted in the US armed forces in 2020, a 59% decline from 1980.

DEFENSE & VETERANS 02 Army Veteran Military Soldier Enlisted Line Down
Defense and security
How is the standard of living changing for veterans?

The 16.2 million veterans in the US in 2022 earn a higher median income and have lower rates of unemployment and poverty than the general population.

DEFENSE & VETERANS 02 Army Veteran Military Soldier Enlisted Stacked Bars
Defense and security
The veteran population has declined 34% since 2000. Veterans Affairs spending is up 185%.

Spending is increasing due to an aging population and more veterans seeking care for severe disabilities.

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