One group that receives recognition for its role during this era is the American Cold War veteran. These men and women served in uniform throughout a period marked by espionage, nuclear arms races, and proxy wars—but little direct combat between superpowers.
The Cold War was a global power struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union. It lasted from the end of World War II in 1945 until the Soviet collapse in 1991. Despite its unconventional nature, the war spawned immense military, political, and psychological conflict.
Who Is an American Cold War Veteran?
An American Cold War veteran is anyone who served in the U.S. Armed Forces between September 2, 1945, and December 26th, 1991. This includes personnel in all branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. Most did not engage in direct warfare. Still, they played essential roles in nuclear deterrence, intelligence gathering, surveillance, and overseas deployments in Europe, Asia, and the Pacific.
They served on submarines patrolling near Soviet waters. They worked in top-secret missile sites across the U.S. They intercepted Soviet communications from bases in West Germany, Korea, and Alaska.
Their mission was to prevent war, not to fight it.
Daily Life During the Cold War
Cold War service demanded constant readiness. Soldiers and sailors trained for nuclear scenarios. Airmen flew reconnaissance missions along enemy borders. Intelligence officers researched through electronic surveillance.
Many Cold War veterans worked under strict secrecy. They could not discuss their jobs with family or even fellow service members. The stress of this lifestyle, combined with the ever-present threat of nuclear war, created long-term psychological effects for some.
Veterans see the tension.
“We kept harm from coming,” said Roland Evans Walter Jr., a Navy veteran. “I felt like it was a pretty important part.”
Army Lt. Col. Bob Ozbolt, who flew intelligence missions near the Iron Curtain, said, “We flew intercept missions near East Germany and the Czech border. It was all about staying alert.”
Limited Recognition and Support
Despite decades of service, American Cold War veterans often feel forgotten. They did not fight in declared wars, so they were excluded from many of the benefits and honors given to combat veterans.
In 1998, the U.S. government introduced the Cold War Recognition Certificate. Veterans could apply to receive this document as acknowledgment of their contribution. However, many believe this is not enough.
Unlike their peers from World War II, Korea, or Vietnam, Cold War veterans have no dedicated service medal. Many efforts have been made in Congress to allow a Cold War Service Medal, but those proposals have failed to pass.
Senator Harry Reid once stated,
“The Cold War was the longest war in United States history. Those that won this war did so in obscurity.”
Health Risks and Unseen Costs
Cold War service was not without danger. Some veterans were exposed to hazardous materials while working on nuclear weapons, radar equipment, or during atomic testing. Others served in harsh environments, such as the Arctic or deep-sea submarines, under intense psychological strain.
Veterans who handled nuclear missiles or took part in chemical and biological defense training sometimes face long-term health problems. Unfortunately, because their service is not classified as combat, many of these veterans struggle to receive proper care or compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Fight American Cold War Veteran for Recognition Continues
Veterans’ groups, including the Cold War Veterans Association, continue to push for greater awareness. They call for a national medal, memorials, and inclusion in major veterans’ events.
They also emphasize the need to collect stories, archive photos, and document service histories before this generation disappears. As more Cold War-era veterans age into their 70s and 80s, time is running out to preserve their legacy.
Final Thoughts
The Cold War shaped modern history. It defined global politics, economics, and technology for half a century. The American Cold War veteran stood on the front lines of that silent struggle.
They maintained peace through strength. Global war was deterred by their readiness. They served without recognition, but not without sacrifice.
It is time to acknowledge them, thank them, and ensure their role in history is never forgotten.
