With Memorial Day approaching, it’s a good time to visit the VA’s National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics. The website is nothing fancy—but there are some valuable data insights about the men and women who have served our country, from the American Revolution to the current day. Start your tour on the Special Reports page, and check out Women Veterans: Past, Present and Future. This 2007 analysis is concise and very readable, offering an historical overview as well as an informative demographic snapshot of women veterans today. Most people don’t know (for example) that hundreds of women donned disguises to serve as soldiers in the Civil War. And some would be surprised to learn that more than 70% of women veterans today have attended college—many utilizing G.I. education benefits.
There is also a thought-provoking report that highlights the accomplishments and challenges of our American Indian and Alaska Native veterans, plus an effective graphical presentation that shows how veterans utilize VA benefits and services.
To explore some of the data collected by NCVAS, visit their VetPop page and choose from a selection of well-made Excel workbooks that will let you slice and dice veteran demographics, geographics, and more. And finally, follow the Links to Related Sites for access to other government sites that offer information for and about veterans.
Although Memorial Day focuses on remembrance of those who have given their lives in service—it’s also an opportunity to realize that many of our remaining World War II veterans will not be with us this time next year. For a reminder of their valor, join one citizen on YouTube for a virtual tour of the National World War II Monument.
Cynthia Giles
Spotfire Blogging Team
Image Credit: Microsoft Office Clip Art
