Forbes Launches Veteran 250 List Highlighting Top Post-Service Achievers

Forbes introduced a new Veteran 250 ranking that honors 250 American veterans whose post-military careers have shaped business, government, philanthropy and culture.

Marking America’s 250th year, Forbes released its Veteran 250 list, naming 250 living veterans whose civilian accomplishments have left a lasting imprint on commerce, politics, philanthropy and the arts. The roster features figures such as Nike co-founder Phil Knight, GoDaddy founder Bob Parsons, former President George W. Bush, EGOT winner Mel Brooks, investor Warren Buffett, former Vice President Al Gore, fashion mogul Ralph Lauren, Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman, Vice President JD Vance and billionaire Jennifer Pritzker.

Selection was guided by a diverse panel that included former defense executives, military advocates and philanthropists, with methodology advice from retired senior officers. The ranking deliberately avoids judging military service quality, focusing instead on entrepreneurship, wealth creation, leadership and charitable work. Forbes will also issue a Greatest Historic Veterans list for deceased contributors. The organization will host a Veterans Day gathering in San Diego, sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union and partnered with the Gary and Mary West Foundation.