New Study Shows Only One-Third of Vets Say the Wars Since 9/11 Were Worth It

A decade later, a new study conducted by the Pew Research Center shows some disheartening reflection from the brave men and women that have served our country on battle fields overseas since 9/11. The new survey on "War and Sacrifice in the Post-9/11 Era," found that only 1 of 3 post-9/11 veterans say the wars since 9/11 were worth it:

"The overwhelming majority of veterans of the post-9/11 era (96%) are proud of their military service. At the same time, more than four-in-ten (44%) report that they have had difficulties readjusting to civilian life, and 37% say that - whether or not they have been formally diagnosed - they have suffered from post-traumatic stress. While post-9/11 veterans are more supportive than the general public, just one-third (34%) say that, given the costs and benefits to the U.S., the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have both been worth fighting."

If the military regret may be a shock, the service men and women polled are not surprised. The study also found that 84 percent of modern-era veterans say the American public has little or no understanding of the problems that those in the military face. 71 Percent of the general public say that assessment is accurate.

The study was based on two nationally representative surveys, one of military veterans and the other of the general public, conducted between July 28 and September 15. A total of 1,853 veterans were surveyed, including 712 who served in the military after the attacks of 9/11, the general public survey was conducted among 2,003 adult respondents.

Chart compiled by the Pew Center showing the breakdown of rewards and burdens carried by those who have served:

The Pew Research Center describes themselves as a nonpartisan "fact tank" that provides information on the issues, attitudes and trends shaping America and the world.

Post-9/11 Wars 10 Years Later