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West Virginians have always prided themselves on being patriotic citizens who answer our country's call. And for generations, that was true. Now, according to WalletHub's "Most Patriotic States in America (2024)," our status on that front has plummeted.
Just in time for West Virginia Day, we learn the state is 41st in the report's overall rankings. Even in the most obvious category -- one in which the Mountain State has performed admirably for decades -- we are faltering. Military engagement here is a surprising 32nd in the country.
The figure takes into account average military enlistees between 2015 and 2020, veterans, active-duty military personnel and share of civilian adult population in military reserves.
What a disappointment for those who have always believed West Virginians put their words into action for our country.
But it gets worse. In terms of civic engagement, West Virginia is 39th. That one looked at voter participation in the 2020 primary and presidential elections; volunteer rate and number of hours; AmeriCorps volunteers; Peace Corps volunteers; trial- and grand-jury participation; share of residents who participated in ANY group, organization or association in the past year, and U.S. history/civics education requirements. The Mountain State is tied for last when it comes to Peace Corps volunteerism. We were 49th for the percentage of adults who voted in the 2020 presidential election about which so many were so vocal on social media.
In fact, a loud group of West Virginians does plenty of squawking about our love for this country (and our belief that those in other states love it less or are enemies of it). But our actions don't back that up. On the other hand, the residents of Virginia, Alaska, Montana, Maine and Oregon (the top five) have us beat.
"I would say a patriot is one who supports and defends the best values of their country while working to correct any faults the country might have," said James P. Davenport, associate dean for social sciences and a professor at Rose State College. "Patriotism is not merely 'blind loyalty.' Like a good parent, friend, or mentor, a patriotic citizen will always be willing to offer correction to their government when it has strayed from its core values. In the U.S., these values include individual liberty, equality before the law, and respect for the inherent dignity of all people. A good patriot will act in ways that are consistent with, and which reinforce these values."
Are we doing that, in West Virginia? Some are, perhaps; but generally speaking, the numbers say "no."
We're better than that. Or we used to be. Perhaps it's time for a little soul searching as we look for ways to return to that better version of ourselves that is disappearing in the rear-view mirror.