The hallowed grounds of the Normandy American Cemetery in France stand as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II. As time marches on, the number of those who directly experienced this global conflict dwindles, making the question, “how many WWII veterans are still alive?” increasingly critical.
Recent projections from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) shed light on this somber reality. Based on the 2022 American Community Survey, the VA estimates that in 2024, approximately 66,000 World War II veterans are still living. This figure represents a stark decrease, with living WWII veterans now constituting less than 0.5% of the 16.4 million Americans who served during the war. To put this into perspective, over 400,000 American lives were lost in the conflict. Just last year, the VA estimated over 119,000 WWII veterans were alive, highlighting the rapid decline of this remarkable generation.
“The latest numbers from the VA make the work we’re doing more urgent than ever before,” emphasizes Dr. Michael Bell, Director of the Jenny Craig Institute for the Study of War and Democracy at The National WWII Museum. “Members of the generation that fought the war and prevailed will soon no longer be able to tell their own story. It is our responsibility to preserve their memories and share their stories with the next generations.” With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of the war’s end, and the youngest veterans approaching their centennial birthdays, the urgency to honor and remember their service is paramount.
The National WWII Museum in New Orleans plays a vital role in this preservation effort. As the number of living WWII veterans decreases, the Museum intensifies its mission to document memories, safeguard artifacts, and educate future generations about America’s involvement in World War II. Their commitment ensures that the lessons and sacrifices of this pivotal period in history are not forgotten.
The VA’s projections, while not an exact count, offer valuable insights into the geographical distribution of these remaining veterans. California is estimated to have the largest population of WWII veterans still alive, with over 7,000, while Louisiana, home to The National WWII Museum, is projected to have around 306. These figures underscore the nationwide impact of WWII and the enduring presence of its veterans, even as their numbers diminish.
In 1940, the US population was approximately 132 million. The fact that 16.4 million Americans served in WWII signifies that over 12% of the entire US population at the time contributed to the war effort through military service. Beyond those in uniform, millions more supported the war from the Home Front, working in essential industries and contributing in countless ways.
As The National WWII Museum approaches its 25th anniversary in 2025, it continues to expand its efforts to tell the complete story of the American experience in “the war that changed the world.” Through exhibits, oral histories, and digital resources, the Museum strives to explain why the war was fought, how it was won, and its lasting significance today. They have amassed over 12,000 video and audio oral histories from WWII veterans and those who supported the war effort, many of which are accessible online through their Digital Collections.
Furthering their innovative approach to historical preservation, the Museum launched the “Voices from the Front” exhibit in March 2024. This interactive display allows visitors to engage in conversations with AI-powered digital representations of WWII veterans, Home Front workers, and other witnesses, creating a unique and immersive learning experience.
“Sadly, the passing of the WWII generation means that they will no longer be able to tell their own stories,” Bell concludes. “But as their time comes to a close, our work preserving their legacy takes on even greater importance.” As we reflect on how many WWII veterans are still alive, we are reminded of the profound responsibility to honor their service and ensure their stories continue to inspire future generations.
