Final answer:
Throughout World War II, 16 million Americans served in the armed forces, which was about 10% of the U.S. population at the time. The draft was instrumental in building this force, with over 24 million men drafted throughout the war. The veteran population from WWII has greatly diminished, with an estimated fewer than 300,000 still alive and possibly none by 2036.
Step-by-step explanation:
During World War II, a total of 16 million American men and women ultimately served in the armed forces. This substantial number represented about 10% of the United States' population at the time. Sadly, about 400,000 of these service members did not return home, sacrificing their lives for their country. While many civilians contributed to the war effort on the home front, the soldiers faced dangers overseas, influencing government policies, economics, and society as a whole.
The draft played a substantial role in assembling this military force. With various draft calls throughout the conflict, over 24 million men were drafted, contributing to a military that peaked at 12 million active members by June 1945. Among those who served were also groups that faced discrimination, including African Americans, women, Native Americans, and homosexuals, with historical estimates suggesting that between 300,000 and 1.2 million gay individuals served during the war.
By the conclusion of World War II, the rapid demobilization reduced the U.S. military size dramatically from 12 million in June 1945 to 1.5 million by June 1947. The war's veterans are part of a declining group, and according to data from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, it is predicted that there will be no living veterans of WWII by the year 2036.