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David J. Adkins

United States Air Force

Served: January 1961 - 1965

Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 making it an annual observance, and it became a national holiday in 1938. Sixteen years later, then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name to Veterans Day to honor all those who served their country during war or peacetime. On this day, the nation honors military veterans — living and dead — with parades and other observances across the country and a ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

The following facts are made possible by the invaluable responses to U.S. Census Bureau surveys. We appreciate the public’s cooperation as we continuously measure America’s people, places and economy.

Veteran Population

Did You Know?

15.8 million

The number of military veterans in the United States in 2023, representing 6.1% of the total civilian population age 18 and over.

1.7 million

The number of female veterans in the United States in 2023, representing 10.9% of the total veteran population.

0.6%

The share of veterans in 2023 who served during World War II. Additionally, 3.5% of veterans served during the Korean War; 33.0% during the Vietnam War; 24.8% during the Persian Gulf War; and 28.0% during the Post-9/11 period (September 2001 to present).

8.6%

The percentage of veterans in 2023 who were Hispanic or Latino (of any race). Additionally, 72.2% of veterans were White alone (not Hispanic or Latino); 12.6% Black or African American alone; 2.0% Asian American alone; 0.8% American Indian or Alaska Native alone; 0.2% Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander alone; and 2.8% Some Other Race alone. The percentages include only those who reported a single race.

27.9%

The share of veterans 75 and older in 2023. At the other end of the age spectrum, 8.3% of veterans were younger than age 35.

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All veterans and active-duty military personnel, and everyone in their vehicle, will be admitted free to DNR state parks, reservoir properties, state forest recreation areas, and off-road state recreation areas on Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11.

Veterans and military personnel should simply let the gate attendant at the property they visit know that they are either a veteran or serving and on active duty.

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According to the Washington County Sheriff's Department, the county-wide burn ban issued on October 21 has now been lifted!

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Align Southern Indiana, in collaboration with the Our Southern Indiana Regional Development Authority, is proud to announce the completion of the Regional Trails Master Plan. The plan, which aims to create a comprehensive trail system connecting six counties – Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Jefferson, Scott, and Washington – was funded through the state’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI), as well as grant initiatives coordinated by Align Southern Indiana.

The regional trail system will connect 22 communities within the six counties to popular destinations, including cultural and historical sites, local, regional and state parks, and neighboring regions. Objectives include an emphasis on regional connections, greater safety for guests, and ultimately, promoting more active, healthy living throughout the region.

“This plan represents a collaborative effort to improve the quality of life for Southern Indiana residents,” said Dr. Rita Shourds, President and CEO of Align Southern Indiana. “By connecting our communities, we’re fostering opportunities for outdoor recreation, economic development, and healthier lifestyles. I am proud of the work our team has done to bring this vision to life, and we look forward to seeing the trails take shape in the years ahead.”

The Regional Trails Master Plan is the result of a seven-month planning process designed to increase regional connectivity, safety, and awareness through a network of trails that link communities to key destinations, including cultural and historical sites, parks, and neighboring regions. The plan outlines future projects that can be implemented over time as funding becomes available, with an overall goal of promoting active, healthy living throughout the region.

The planning process included significant community engagement, with open houses held in each county, as well as an online survey that garnered over 870 responses. The input gathered from residents helped shape the plan’s recommendations, with key priorities and projects identified for each county. Align Southern Indiana’s Trails Team, along with representatives from each county, worked closely with consultants to ensure the plan reflects the unique needs and goals of the region.