In observance of Memorial Day

Many people consider Memorial Day the beginning of summer, but it’s really about honoring U.S. citizens who have died while serving in the armed forces. As of September 2010, there were 1,430,895 people on active duty in the military with an additional 848,000 people in the seven reserve components.

And let’s not forget about veterans. There were 21.9 million living veterans in 2009, including 1.7 million under 35.

A mere 9% of total Hunch users have served in the military of any country — 7% as enlisted soldiers and 2% as officers. But 39% of Hunch users have considered joining the military and 33% live with someone who served.

What can we tell you about Hunch users who serve or have served in the armed forces?

For starters, they’re nearly 62% more likely than non-military to prefer action and adventure movies. Non-officers are 21% more likely than civilians to say they’re more motivated to help the team succeed, instead of performing well individually. Higher-ranking officers are more focused on individual success, but still more team-oriented than non-military.

The majority of military officers and non-officers – 59% and 54%, respectively — own a flag of their country of citizenship. On average, Hunch users in the armed forces are 11% more likely than non-military to have voted in their country’s last major election for president or prime minister. We may not all belong on the front lines, but this is one example we should all follow.

Finally, we know that the majority of military officers and non-officers on Hunch — 62% and 69%, respectively — are from North America. Military service in these parts isn’t compulsory. These people have chosen to risk their lives in defense of their country.

Past and present members of the armed forces, we salute you.