Why Ohio veterans are struggling
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America's veteran population is getting younger, and those returning to civilian life face a much different social transition than past generations did.
Why it matters: Concerns over veterans' well-being get a spotlight with the approach of Veterans Day on Monday.
- Veterans are more likely to experience loneliness, substance abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder than the general population, making them a significantly higher risk for suicide.
The big picture: There were around 15.8 million living veterans nationwide in 2023, per U.S. Census data, about 6% of the adult population.
- Around 93,000 veterans live in the Columbus metro area, or 5.6% of the local population.
By the numbers: Fewer veterans are joining social organizations like the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, whose membership skews toward seniors.
- JD Robinson, adjutant for American Legion Department of Ohio, tells Axios that Legion membership statewide has dropped from about 186,000 in 1993 to about 75,000 today, with attrition of 3,000-5,000 members each year — a trajectory that matches national trends.
What they're saying: Robinson says Legions and other veteran groups are "great at doing and horrible at promoting."
- He fears younger service members don't see the purpose of groups that impact their rights, connection to community and mental health.
- "I've witnessed where we've sat and talked to someone who was upset and we had no idea. But then the next week they come in and thank us for talking with them because they thought this would have been their last Marine Corps birthday."
Between the lines: Public support may be waning too.
- The Ohio branch of the Military/Veterans Educational Foundation hosted a Veterans Day parade in downtown Columbus until 2023, when it was canceled because of decreasing attendance, donations and corporate support.
- The parade has been replaced this year by a rally at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum from 11:30am-3:30pm Sunday.
What we're watching: Ohio State's Suicide and Trauma Reduction Initiative for Veterans, a national leader in veterans suicide research, has seen reduction in suicide attempts and improved PTSD recovery among its patients.
If you or a veteran you know needs support now, dial the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 plus 1, or call or text 988 or chat with someone at 988lifeline.org. En español.