After that initial post-service period, Vietnam veterans were no more likely to die from suicide than non-Vietnam veterans.
“The CDC Vietnam Experience Study Mortality Assessment showed that during the first 5 years after discharge, deaths from suicide were 1.7 times more likely among Vietnam veterans than non-Vietnam veterans. Myth: The media have reported that suicides among Vietnam veterans range from 50,000 to 100,000 – 6 to 11 times the non-Vietnam veteran population.įact: Mortality studies show that 9,000 is a better estimate. Approximately 70% of those killed in Vietnam were volunteers.
2/3 of the men who served in World War II were drafted. Myth: Common belief is that most Vietnam veterans were drafted.įact: 2/3 of the men who served in Vietnam were volunteers.
