Honoring Service on the Farm: Veteran Farmers, Especially Black Producers, Make Their Mark in Agriculture

By: Cathy Nedd, AgOutreach

As the nation pauses to honor its fallen heroes on Memorial Day, it's a fitting time to spotlight a unique and often overlooked segment of the agricultural community: military veterans who have transitioned into farming. According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, 370,619 producers in the United States have served or are serving in the military, accounting for 11% of the country’s 3.4 million producers.

Anita Milson, president and CEO of Mentorscope Community Outreach, emphasizes the profound impact that these veterans have on the agricultural sector. "Our veteran farmers bring a wealth of experience and resilience to the agricultural community," Milson states. "They have served our country with honor, and now they continue to serve by feeding our nation."

One of the remarkable aspects revealed by the Census is the higher proportion of Black producers with military service. While 11% of all U.S. producers have military experience, this share rises to 20% among Black producers. This statistic highlights the significant role Black veterans play in agriculture, continuing a legacy of resilience and contribution to the land.

In addition to their military background, these veteran farmers are notably older than the average U.S. farmer. Seventy percent of producers with military service are 65 years of age or older, with an average age of 67.9 years, compared to 57.5 years for all U.S. producers. Despite their age, these farmers manage smaller-than-average farms in terms of both acres and sales, yet their impact and dedication remain substantial.

As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the presence of military veterans within its ranks offers a testament to the enduring spirit of service. These veterans, including a notable number of Black producers, exemplify a commitment to both country and community, ensuring that the values they upheld in uniform persist in their farming endeavors.

For more detailed insights and data, the Census of Agriculture provides a comprehensive count of U.S. farms and ranches, available at national, state, and county levels. The results, along with a searchable database, downloadable PDF reports, maps, and various topic-specific products, can be accessed at www.nass.usda.gov/AgCensus.

This Memorial Day, as we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, let us also recognize and honor the military veterans who continue to serve through their dedication to agriculture, contributing to the sustenance and well-being of our nation.