BY LIZZY SPANGLER CONTRIBUTIONS BY ANGELA BONILLA & ATIRIKTA KUMAR
Veteran population in Houston-area counties, 2023
The local impact
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Montgomery County had the second-largest veteran population as a percent of the civilian population ages 18 and over in 2023, according to the Rural Health Information Hub. 4-4.9% 5-5.9% 6-6.9% 7-7.9% Total estimated population as of July 1, 2023
As of 2023, veterans made up 6.9% of the coun- ty’s civilian population ages 18 and over, per data from the Rural Health Information Hub. There are also several veteran organizations in the county, such as American Legion Post 411. The post is led by Mike Rentfrow, who is on the MCVMC board. “I think what the commission does really, really well is it documents the historical aspect of everything,” Rentfrow said. Another way the park impacts the community is through tourism. Scott Harper, president of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, said the park serves as a gateway to downtown Conroe. “It’s so visible,” Harper said. “And to get people to stop and spend time there, [that’s] helping the economic engine of Conroe—going into down- town, eating at our local restaurants.” Keough said it’s a vital part of the community. “It is more than just a park; it is a heartfelt, living tribute that honors the sacrifice of all our veterans and first responders,” Keough said.
The new museum and education center at the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park is anticipated to open to the public next spring, Woods said. The commission is also planning for 2026 when it comes to the completion of its new memorial for Gold Star Families, who are families who’ve had loved ones die during their service. In addition, in July, Montgomery County commissioners approved leasing out 0.33 acres of land to the commission for further expansion, Community Impact previously reported. The plans for the land include a new entry plaza, a garden, a shared digital sign and historic Quonset huts—arch-shaped steel buildings—for office and exhibit use. “Every day’s a new day to build something beautiful,” Woods said.
Montgomery County
Waller County
716K
4.9M
64K
Harris County
905K
365K
Galveston County
Fort Bend County
398K
Brazoria County
SOURCES: RURAL HEALTH INFORMATION HUB, TEXAS DEMOGRAPHIC CENTER/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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