Serving Those Who Served: Mecklenburg County Salutes Its 52,000+ Veterans

Veterans Services Can Help Vets and Their Families 

As the nation honors our American heroes for their military service on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Mecklenburg County recognizes and salutes our community’s many veterans for their service and sacrifice through the decades.

Mecklenburg County’s veterans comprise a diverse group. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, there are an estimated 52,228 veterans living in the county, alongside more than 2,000 active-duty personnel. The U.S. Census found that about 87% of Mecklenburg County veterans are men and 13% are women. 

Our veterans have witnessed history during nearly every major conflict of the past 100 years. According to the U.S. Census, of Mecklenburg County veterans:  

• 151 served in World War II. 

• 890 served in the Korean War. 

• 13,180 served during the Vietnam era. 

• 11,471 served between 1975 and 1990. 

• 11,608 served between 1990 and 2001. 

• 10,557 served from 2001 to today. 

Mecklenburg County’s veterans are highly educated. About 44% hold a bachelor’s degree, which is above the national average of citizens with a degree. More than 30% have completed some college or hold an associate degree.  

About 84% of Mecklenburg County veterans aged 18 to 64 are employed. 

WE’RE HERE TO HELP: Available to help these veterans and their families is Mecklenburg County Veterans Services. Its staff is dedicated to assisting veterans with their benefits, healthcare, legal issues, mental health and substance abuse, counseling, employment, education, housing, insurance, and networking with other veterans. 

Veterans Services is a division of Mecklenburg County Community Support Services. It is accredited through the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, North Carolina Division of Military and Veterans Affairs, and the American Legion.  

For more information, visit Veterans.MeckNC.gov. Veterans in need of service can call 704-336-2102.