American Military Service and the Life Course: What We Know, What We Don’t, and How to Fill the Gaps

David R. Segal, University of Maryland

In this presentation, I will review the historical background of American social science research on military service and the life course. Findings related to the experiences of those who served during peacetime and the major military conflicts of the twentieth century (World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan) will be reviewed. I will highlight the themes and limitations in this area of research. Future research needs will be identified. The development of a new research program on the topic, which involves the members of this panel, will be discussed.