Top 100 Veteran Influencers in 2026
The September 2026 snapshot of top 100 veteran influencers in 2026 covers 100 public Instagram profiles with 27M combined followers. Median audience size is 92.5K (mean 270K), which tells you the typical creator on this list is smaller than the headline names — a few large accounts pull the average up.
Average engagement across the ranking is 2.7% (median 3%). That is 1.1pp below the 3.8% veteran industry midpoint we use for 2026 Instagram, and 1.2pp above the ~1.55% all-niche Instagram average. Followers are relatively spread out — the top three hold 24.4% of combined reach, which is healthier if you want a diversified creator mix.
On this mix, a single organic feed post typically budgets $1,632–$6,902 and a Reel $2,938–$10,844 before usage rights (public 2026 Instagram bands, weighted by the follower-tier mix on this page and a 0.95× veteran premium). A five-creator test usually lands around $8,160–$34,510.
Key takeaways for veteran in September 2026
- Jocko Willink, Daven Gates, Shawn Ryan currently sit at the top of this veteran ranking.
- Follower mix: 51% micro, 33% mid, 9% macro. Dominant tier: micro.
- Geography: 0 countries on the list, led by a mix of countries.
- 100 profiles link out to a live or curated Instagram handle; 100 are verified public figures with self-hosted photos.
- Highest engagement on the list is Dustin Everett at 4.6%, which is not the largest audience (Jocko Willink at 3.1M). That gap is the usual “don’t sort only by followers” lesson.
- Do not brief a hobby account like a lifestyle page. If they teach quilting, the product has to live in a quilting workflow.
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Veteran Influencers ranked
1.
Jocko Willink Mega
@jockowillinkJocko Willink is a veteran creator with a global audience and an engaged Instagram following. Reach out via their profile for collaborations and partnerships.
3.1M Followers 15.8K Avg. Likes 0.9% Engagement 1,114 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
2.
Daven Gates Mega
@onestopchop_Internet Chef 🧑🏾🍳/Army Vet 💪🏾ONESTOPCHOPLLC.COM 📧 📖 COOKBOOK/SEASONING ⬇️⬇️⬇️
1.8M Followers 17.7K Avg. Likes 1.2% Engagement 8,936 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
3.
Shawn Ryan Mega
@shawnryan762• Host of🎙 • Former Navy SEAL/CIA 🔱🇺🇸• 444 is my favorite number ✝️• Guest Appearances
1.7M Followers 18.3K Avg. Likes 1.1% Engagement 7,377 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
4.
Nick Freitas Mega
@nickjfreitasHusband | Father | Green Beret Combat Veteran | Defender of
1.5M Followers 13.6K Avg. Likes 1.1% Engagement 7,216 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
5.
Michael Jones Mega
@garand_thumbRetired military; z list youtube star
1.2M Followers 8K Avg. Likes 0.9% Engagement 8,452 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
6.
Austin von Letkemann Mega
@mandatoryfundayThe Monotone Mustang - Not Official DoD Ships all over earth - kids merch at the link below⬇️Merch⬇️Newsletter⬇️
1.2M Followers 6K Avg. Likes 0.9% Engagement 8,667 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
7.
Kagan Dunlap Mega
@kagan.dunlapOfficial account of Kagan Dunlap Host of the 💍 My Content Does Not Reflect The Official Views of The DoW
1.1M Followers 7.9K Avg. Likes 0.8% Engagement 3,516 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
8.
Mat Best Macro
@mat_best_official🇺🇸Veteran Advocate🇺🇸 🎥🎸🏋🏻♂️☕️🎤🔫🇺🇸NYT Best Selling Author - Thank You for My Service🇺🇸Co-Founder Black Rifle Coffee
981K Followers 8.4K Avg. Likes 1.3% Engagement 3,022 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
9.
Joshua Bridges Macro
@bridgesj3Operation LFG PROGRAM functional movements, body building plus conditioning MILITARY ATHLETE PROGRAM (how I prepared for my time as a NAVY SEAL)
859K Followers 11.3K Avg. Likes 1.8% Engagement 9,463 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
10.
Major Khushboo Patani Macro
@khushboo_pataniEx-Indian Army Officer🇮🇳 Fitness coach & EntrepreneurCounsellor & Tarot card reader BOOK 1:1 Session 👇🏻with me
842K Followers 11.3K Avg. Likes 1.4% Engagement 6,790 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
11.
Marcus Luttrell Macro
@marcusluttrellHusband, Dad, Veteran, Catholic & Advocate for Good People. TeamNeverQuitPodcastJoin Team Never Quit 👇
747K Followers 8.6K Avg. Likes 1.4% Engagement 3,345 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
12.
Col.Rajeev Bharwan Macro
@col_bharwan_AIRBORNE 🪂 | GORKHA VETERAN 🪖MUMMA SIRSSB MENTOR | ENABLER | PERSONALITY DEVELOPER | HEALER
739K Followers 6.1K Avg. Likes 1.1% Engagement 4,153 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
13.
Patriotic Kenny Macro
@patriotickenny83 year old Navy veteran⚓️ Spreading joy, kindness, & mobility scooters. Patriotic Kenny Foundation 🇺🇸 TikTok 2.9M ♥️ PO Box 72 Wyoming MN 55092
691K Followers 6.3K Avg. Likes 1.7% Engagement 1,166 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
14.
Cody Garrett Macro
@donutoperatorDad, YouTube, Twitch, guns, vet, foodieOwner is my boy ⬅️follow
665K Followers 7.5K Avg. Likes 1.4% Engagement 8,541 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
15.
Nikko Ortiz Macro
@nikkoortizzzNikko Ortiz is a veteran content creator with a global audience and an engaged Instagram following. Reach out via their profile for collaborations and partnerships.
528K Followers 6.7K Avg. Likes 1.4% Engagement 4,936 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
16.
Max Philisaire Macro
@maxthebodyHusband & Father | Follow Christ Managing Director of Social Combat Vet
501K Followers 5.2K Avg. Likes 1.9% Engagement 798 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
17.
Kyle Carpenter Mid
@chiksdigscarsMarine. Speaker. Author. Podcaster.4x marathoner. World explorer. Chasing a life well lived. Send it.
461K Followers 11K Avg. Likes 2.6% Engagement 1,071 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
18.
Jack Carr Mid
@jackcarrusaNYTs Bestselling Author of RED SKY MOURNING • 2025 Thriller: CRY HAVOC • Stream THE TERMINAL LIST Series•
459K Followers 5.9K Avg. Likes 2.5% Engagement 6,399 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
19.
Mike Glover Mid
@mike.a.gloverDomestic Prepper ⚔️Host of Mike Glover Show PodcastNational Best Seller | Prepared 🇺🇸
451K Followers 9.9K Avg. Likes 2.7% Engagement 2,646 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
20.
Chris Craighead Mid
@christian_craigheadHere I am. Send me! Skilled and relentless good guy🏴☠️🎗️All inquires: Get The Wrong Wolf here ⬇️
388K Followers 6.2K Avg. Likes 2.5% Engagement 8,431 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
21.
Chandler Smith Mid
@blacksmifffSaw a mountain across the horizon, got there, realized it was just a pile of rocks. | | |
323K Followers 2.7K Avg. Likes 1.6% Engagement 551 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
22.
Zachary Bell Mid
@veteranwithasignBe the change you want to see. 🎙️ host for 🕶️ for blades memberBusiness, shirts, & savings hit the 🔗
282K Followers 3.7K Avg. Likes 2.2% Engagement 2,710 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
23.
Shawn Dodd Mid
@ironranger023🚀 Helping Creators & Brands Grow on Social Media🎥Viral Strategies & Engagement Hacks💰Brand Deals & Monetization📈High-Impact Content & Trend Mastery
268K Followers 4.2K Avg. Likes 2.8% Engagement 5,184 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
24.
Deshauna Barber Mid
@deshaunabarber💫 Inspiring You To Elevate Former Miss USA • Army Veteran • Speaker📚 🎙️ Host of 🇺🇸
259K Followers 5.4K Avg. Likes 2.2% Engagement 6,977 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
25.
Evan Hafer Mid
@evanhaferCoffee Roaster Projectile Enthusiast
254K Followers 2.8K Avg. Likes 2% Engagement 1,119 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
26.
John Lovell Mid
@johnlovell_wpsFounder Best Selling Author | Speaker | Firearms Instructor | YouTuber | Veteran <2>🍍 + 🍕 = abomination
220K Followers 5.4K Avg. Likes 2.5% Engagement 2,429 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
27.
Jason Redman Mid
@jasonredmanwwTed ❌ - Motivational Keynote SpeakerPurple Heart - NYT Best Seller - Veteran AdvocateLeadership + Speaking Coach JOIN ME IN PERSON FEB 7TH ⤵️
214K Followers 5.2K Avg. Likes 2.8% Engagement 1,338 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
28.
Loren Johnson Mid
@lojo.fishingYouTuber w/ 800,000+ Subscribers Army OEF Veteran 🇺🇸Bearded Fisherman/Hunter ❄️🔥 🔥❄️⬇️⬇️⬇️Join My YouTube Family
195K Followers 2.4K Avg. Likes 2.2% Engagement 8,153 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
29.
Vincent Rocco Vargas Mid
@vincent.rocco.vargasVincent Rocco Vargas is a veteran creator with a global audience and an engaged Instagram following. Reach out via their profile for collaborations and partnerships.
195K Followers 2.6K Avg. Likes 1.8% Engagement 2,621 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
30.
Noah Galloway Mid
@noahgallowayathlete🦾 Proud Husband & Father🎙Host: Living With No Excuses Podcast📖Author: Living With No Excuses🇺🇸Retired Combat Veteran Athlete
185K Followers 3.2K Avg. Likes 1.9% Engagement 7,379 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
31.
Sam Eckholm Mid
@sameckholm📸 Just a kid and a cameraAerospace & Defense YouTube & Other Links 👇🏼
180K Followers 2.9K Avg. Likes 1.9% Engagement 1,851 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
32.
Austen Alexander Mid
@austen_alexYouTuber • Veteran • Fun Haver 👇
164K Followers 4K Avg. Likes 2.6% Engagement 4,004 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
33.
Tyler Grey Mid
@tyleragreyFormer military, current Hollywood creator.No AI, No Filters, No Fake BSI aspire to inspire.
160K Followers 1.8K Avg. Likes 1.6% Engagement 5,101 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
34.
Heston Russell Mid
@hestonrussellHeston Russell is a veteran influencer with a global audience and an engaged Instagram following. Reach out via their profile for collaborations and partnerships.
156K Followers 1.9K Avg. Likes 1.9% Engagement 6,052 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
35.
Eric Blandford Mid
@iraqveteran8888_officialOfficial IG for IV8888 | OIFIII Infantry | 2A Advocate | Spicy Liberty | Hunter | Fisherman | SOT/02 | GOA Ga State Director
156K Followers 1.5K Avg. Likes 1.8% Engagement 7,014 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
36.
Dharmveer Singh Mid
@capt_dvsमौक़ा मिलता नहीं, बनाना पड़ता है !Ex-Army |Runner |Mountaineer |Fit India Ambassador| Youth Icon Awardee |FearFactor | WipeOut TedX वक्ता JNU/NMIMS
154K Followers 3.3K Avg. Likes 2.5% Engagement 588 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
37.
Danny Maher Mid
@donnyomalleyFounder of and I make Comedy out of tragedy, thus turning darkness into light.
139K Followers 2.1K Avg. Likes 2.2% Engagement 8,687 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
38.
Capt Sunaina Singh Mid
@captdrsunainasinghTeacher👩🏫 Mother ExArmy Offr👮♀️Prof DU👩🏫PhD Psychology📚MBANational Handball Player🤾♀️Sports PsychologistSSB Mentor🌟join MBS-2 now👇
129K Followers 2.3K Avg. Likes 1.8% Engagement 8,213 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
39.
Kirstie Ennis Mid
@kirstie_ennisUSMC Vet • Keynote Speaker • Adventure Athlete • Philanthropist • Coach
129K Followers 1.8K Avg. Likes 2.7% Engagement 1,466 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
40.
Maj Prajakta Desai Mid
@major_prajakta_desaiArmy Aviation Veteran | Public Figure | SpeakerLeadership • Courage • ResilienceAnimal Rescuer| 7×TEDx |Josh Talks👇 Speaking • Media • Partnerships
126K Followers 1.9K Avg. Likes 1.7% Engagement 8,689 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
41.
Leif Babin Mid
@leifbabinPresident/Co-Founder of Co-author, EXTREME OWNERSHIP & THE DICHOTOMY OF LEADERSHIP. Student of Leadership. Former SEAL officer.
124K Followers 1.3K Avg. Likes 2.1% Engagement 1,209 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
42.
Chi Mid
@chained_soulz📍Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩 Travel | Lifestyle | WellnessRetired Army Veteran🎖 Collabs - 📧: Owner - 🧺💐
119K Followers 1.1K Avg. Likes 1.5% Engagement 3,395 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
43.
Joshua Rechani Mid
@jamaican_joshOWNER-PATTY BWOY PATTIES————THE BEST JAMAICAN PATTIES IN LOS ANGELES
119K Followers 1.5K Avg. Likes 2.3% Engagement 1,101 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
44.
Travis Mills Mid
@ssgtravismillsRetired United States SSG | Recalibrated Veteran | Motivational Speaker | Author | Founder of the &
114K Followers 2K Avg. Likes 2.7% Engagement 2,384 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
45.
Steve Kalfman Mid
@steve_3111💪🏽 | Fitness enthusiast🦌 | Hunter🇺🇸 | VeteranLinks 👇🏼
112K Followers 1.9K Avg. Likes 2.2% Engagement 6,890 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
46.
Vijay Bhargavan Mid
@awedacious_majorMajor🎖️|Army Veteran 🇮🇳|Corporate Leader🌐| Paratrooper 🪂 | Deep-Sea Diver 🤿 | Fitness Promoter🏋️ | Malaya-Lee 🙅🏻♂️| Gemini Twin ♊️
112K Followers 2.1K Avg. Likes 2.1% Engagement 7,028 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
47.
Major Rudrashish Majumder Mid
@major_rudrashishEX ARMYOlive Green +Ve/Chhichhore/Jersey/Mrs Undercover & Avrodh S2Tedx Speaker📍MUMBAI
110K Followers 1.2K Avg. Likes 1.7% Engagement 8,417 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
48.
Sidney Gabower Mid
@sidneygabower📍San AntonioCurrently doing a lot of things here and there and everywhere • USAF Veteran | Esthetician | Model
109K Followers 2.1K Avg. Likes 1.9% Engagement 5,287 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
49.
William Sko Mid
@will.and.wessonLink Below For My Music! 🎶 Dad: 🇺🇸 CEO: Only Accounts ↖️
107K Followers 1.4K Avg. Likes 2.3% Engagement 3,489 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
50.
Sam Juan Micro
@the1sam__juan🎨 📍 VA👩🎓 JHU MLA👩🎓 ODU BFA🇵🇭 + 🇮🇷 = 🙋🏽♀️
93.1K Followers 2.8K Avg. Likes 3.1% Engagement 4,986 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
51.
Major Gaurav Arya Micro
@major_gauravaryaOfficial page of Major Gaurav Arya (Retd)
91.8K Followers 2.2K Avg. Likes 3.7% Engagement 2,488 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
52.
John Davis Micro
@john.h.davis.writerJohn Davis is a veteran public figure with a global audience and an engaged Instagram following. Reach out via their profile for collaborations and partnerships.
84.2K Followers 1.7K Avg. Likes 3.4% Engagement 5,052 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
53.
Sushant Singh Micro
@sushant_gypsysoldierEx-Special Forces, Solo Cyclist, Mountaineer, Martial Artist, Traveller, Adventurer...
79.2K Followers 1.2K Avg. Likes 2.6% Engagement 7,214 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
54.
Bijay G Nair Micro
@bijaynairStory from "Slums to Sea" 🏆 TEDx Speaker 08 Times | Best Author Award 2021🖋| Indian Navy (Veteran) 🇮🇳 | War Veteran(1999) | INA | UltraMarathoner
74.4K Followers 1.7K Avg. Likes 2.8% Engagement 5,089 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
55.
Lt Gen Satish Dua Micro
@lt_gensatishdua•Former Chief of Integrated Defence Staff& 15 Corps Commander,Kashmir•Counter Terrorism•Author•Motivational/TEDxSpeaker📧info.ltgensatishdua
74.4K Followers 2.2K Avg. Likes 4.5% Engagement 8,301 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
56.
Dustin Everett Micro
@dwcc_usaDixieWrekdNever Easy-Always Hard🇺🇸USMC Vet♿️RetiredOrganizer of Vet/1st resp tripsHats-Hoodies-Jackets-ShirtsSupport our Veterans trips⬇️VISIT⬇️
70.6K Followers 3K Avg. Likes 4.6% Engagement 9,150 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
57.
Anson Roberts Micro
@nubgunner1 RULE NEVER QUIT!-Ret. Marine 0341 Combat Vet “Hand Model” 👐🏼
68.3K Followers 1.4K Avg. Likes 2.8% Engagement 8,066 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
58.
Aditya Sundaresan Micro
@sunny_actualchill vibes only Nashville•Sketches•Army Veteran 🇺🇸 Biz: sunnyactualbusiness acc My brand ⬇️
68K Followers 1.9K Avg. Likes 4.5% Engagement 1,933 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
59.
Lt Commander Nikhil Kumar Chandrakala Micro
@ltcdr_nikhil_the_gtoEx Warship Captain 🤿🪂India’s Youngest GTO since 1947 | SSB (Kol) | 12 SSB | NSB CoimbatoreLeadership Coach Podcast
67.4K Followers 2.1K Avg. Likes 3.9% Engagement 3,084 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
60.
David Pere Micro
@frommilitarytomillionaire💰Financially Free Marine🪖Helping military folks reach financial freedom!🏠Real Estate | 🎤Podcast | ✍️Author📚Start Today! Get My Book For FREE⬇️
66.2K Followers 2.1K Avg. Likes 3.6% Engagement 5,730 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
61.
Yashika Tyagi Micro
@captain_yashikahtyagiMom l Proud Wife to a Paratrooper I Kargil War Veteran l Josh Talks & TEDx Speaker l YT - ShauryaTales l Motivational Speaker I Leadership Multiplier
65.4K Followers 955 Avg. Likes 2.5% Engagement 4,704 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
62.
Papa Jake Micro
@storytimewithpapajakeStories From a WW2 Veteran 🇺🇸❤️📬💌3559 Mt. Diablo Blvd CA 94549
64.4K Followers 2.6K Avg. Likes 4.1% Engagement 5,710 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
63.
Dan Pronk Micro
@danpronkAuthor - The Combat Doctor, The Resilience Shield. Ex Army Special Forces, doctor, car lover, dad, entrepreneur. Medical Director TacMed Australia.
63.3K Followers 1.6K Avg. Likes 3% Engagement 1,663 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
64.
Bobby Henline Micro
@bobby_henlineMotivational Speaker Comedian - Actor, CoFounder Bravo748- Bobby Henline Foundation “Forging Forward”
60.4K Followers 2K Avg. Likes 3.7% Engagement 9,165 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
65.
Casey Sherrod Micro
@caseyriveter🌈 | Rogue & Raven the Rescue Dogs | MBA ‘21 | OEF Veteran | Chicago📍|Biz inquiries:
57.9K Followers 2.2K Avg. Likes 3.9% Engagement 4,249 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
66.
Leslie Latrice Micro
@leslielatriceLeft the Army, corporate, so now what Life's Best! Life After the Army | Self-Love | Transformative Experiences 💌 ↴
56.6K Followers 1.6K Avg. Likes 4.6% Engagement 8,831 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
67.
Maj Gen GD Bakshi SM Micro
@maj.gen.dr.gdbakshiCombat veteran, Phd in strategic study. Author of 45 books, editor Indian Military Review, Motivational speaker.
53.6K Followers 1.3K Avg. Likes 2.7% Engagement 7,248 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
68.
Jason Gardner Micro
@jason.n.gardnerLeadership Instructor for Echelon Front.Retired SEAL Master Chief💍
53.2K Followers 2.2K Avg. Likes 4.4% Engagement 4,625 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
69.
Jose Luis Sanchez Micro
@jls143_♠ Wellness Coach,Personal Trainer, CFL-2TRAINER♠ ➖ ➖ USMC VETERAN COMBAT WOUNDED 🇺🇸FOUNDER/CEO ➡️
49.7K Followers 1.1K Avg. Likes 4.5% Engagement 3,500 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
70.
Chase Skylar Micro
@chaseskylarDon’t Worry, Be Happy Wounded Veteran - Keynote SpeakerChase the Light ☀️Holistic Medicine-Metaphysics 🎓Assoc VP, Partnerships
44.9K Followers 697 Avg. Likes 2.9% Engagement 3,813 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
71.
Dr. Jedidiah Ballard Micro
@dr.jed_ER Physician👨⚕️ Former Army Ranger🇺🇸 Men’s Health Ultimate Guy & Advisory Board, Athlete 💪*My ONLY IG account
43.7K Followers 826 Avg. Likes 3% Engagement 2,097 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
72.
Ryan Bates Micro
@frogman5326_Husband, FatherFormer US Navy SEALHost of Netflix “Toughest Forces on Earth”
43.1K Followers 1.1K Avg. Likes 3.4% Engagement 4,414 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
73.
Marcus Capone Micro
@marcuscaponeHusband, Father, Athlete, Mental Health Advocate, Navy SEAL, and Founder
42K Followers 1K Avg. Likes 3.8% Engagement 3,046 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
74.
Chris VanSant Micro
@cvansant123Defense Industry Consultant US Army(Ret)
39.9K Followers 777 Avg. Likes 2.5% Engagement 804 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
75.
Jenna Carlton Micro
@themillennialveteran✨Helping young veterans find their way🪖Guiding transitioning military to a new chapter 📔Author- ⬇️Resources
38.9K Followers 1.1K Avg. Likes 4% Engagement 2,763 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
76.
Chef Edwin Henderson Micro
@chefsinthecity713❤️ Tacos & Jesus🎥 As Seen On:
37.1K Followers 734 Avg. Likes 2.8% Engagement 7,174 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
77.
Major Preeti Sehrawat Kaushik Micro
@maj_preetisehrawat🅿🆁🅴🅴🆃🅸 🧿ＥＸ ＩＮＤＩＡＮ ＡＲＭＹ🇮🇳ＲＥＴＩＲＥＤ ＡＮＤ ＰＲＯＵＤMOTHER OF 2, ❤️ FULL OF JOY🇨🇭🇫🇷🇳🇱🇧🇪🇹🇭🇱🇰🇸🇬🇻🇳.......FITNESS | DREAMS | WORKMODE
35K Followers 713 Avg. Likes 3.5% Engagement 6,664 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
78.
Ryan Hendrickson Micro
@ryanmhendrickson.tipofthespearRetired US Army Green Beret, founded Tip of the Spear Landmine Removal Group, Author and mental health advocate for veterans and first responders
35K Followers 883 Avg. Likes 2.8% Engagement 1,717 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
79.
Major Yuvavir Kadyan Micro
@major_yuvavirkadyanVeteran A little bit of everything!
34.3K Followers 922 Avg. Likes 3% Engagement 7,085 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
80.
Pratap Micro
@sailwithpratapBuilding 🪖Fauji🇮🇳l Runner 🏃♂️l Corporate Mentor 👨🏫
30.7K Followers 663 Avg. Likes 3.5% Engagement 5,889 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
81.
Dick Salas Micro
@notyourtypicalveteranVeteranVetTV SpecialHost5 Time Award winnerProducer
30.3K Followers 831 Avg. Likes 3.9% Engagement 5,093 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
82.
Maj Anita Rathore Micro
@maj_anita_rathore1409Motivation is fleeting;habits last a lifetime. believer in the power of hard workbuild a better life1:1 video call session for doubt clearing ⬇️
27.1K Followers 717 Avg. Likes 3.6% Engagement 3,358 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
83.
Lieutenant Purushark Suyal Micro
@lieutenant_purushark_suyal1. Ex- Military, Served for more than 5 years in the Indian Navy. 2. UPSC NDA/Naval Academy-2012 : AIR 943. Ordinary Citizen4. देवभूमि उत्तराखंड
26.9K Followers 481 Avg. Likes 3.1% Engagement 589 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
84.
Melissa Stockwell Micro
@mstockwell01MOM | Veteran 💜 | 4x Paralympian🥉| Triathlete 🏃🏽♀️ | Speaker 🎤 | Author 📖 | Buisness owner🦿| Dream chaser 💫
25.3K Followers 510 Avg. Likes 2.5% Engagement 2,583 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
85.
Maj.Nirmith.Thakur Micro
@maj.nirmith.thakurIndian Army Veteran Parachute RegimentMen apart every man an emperor Nation FirstHometown SAGAR MP
25.1K Followers 577 Avg. Likes 2.9% Engagement 5,493 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
86.
Martha Peters Micro
@venturesomecoupleChris & Martha💝 Married Couple - Air Force Veteran & Alaskan native Indian & we Full Time RV & travel in our Alliance RV ⬇️Join us on YouTube
23.6K Followers 355 Avg. Likes 2.9% Engagement 1,349 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
87.
Katie Vail Micro
@stripesandwhimsyClassic outfits, thrifted finds, & timeless home design. Shop Helping busy women get dressed and decorate with pieces that will last!
22K Followers 465 Avg. Likes 3.5% Engagement 8,308 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
88.
Chris Van Etten Micro
@chrisvanetten_officialChris Van Etten is a veteran public figure with a global audience and an engaged Instagram following. Reach out via their profile for collaborations and partnerships.
21K Followers 409 Avg. Likes 3.4% Engagement 4,424 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
89.
Nithi C J Micro
@majornithicjAn Ordinary Woman with a Life Less Ordinary 🇮🇳🎖️Fauji to the core—Brat, Wife & VeteranBringing perspectives with
20K Followers 329 Avg. Likes 3.2% Engagement 3,543 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
90.
Maximilian Uriarte Micro
@tlcplmaxI'm Max, NYT bestselling author, artist, animation filmmaker and creator of ! New dad. Burrito connoisseur.
18.6K Followers 585 Avg. Likes 3.6% Engagement 6,928 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
91.
Travis Chick Micro
@travischick_artOEF veteran 12B💥Artist 👉🏼Email for questions and info👈🏼 Email: Worldwideink pro team
18.2K Followers 445 Avg. Likes 3.1% Engagement 8,625 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
92.
Michelle Lewis Micro
@lifewithmichellelewis🌍 Founder/CEO 📸 Actor | Model ⚔️ US Army Veteran | Airborne🎥 Content by
17.1K Followers 468 Avg. Likes 3.3% Engagement 4,546 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
93.
TShane Johnson Micro
@tshanejohnsonEntrepreneur | Philanthropist | Acclaimed Speaker & Author. Ask me about and how I overcame homelessness and died…3 times.
16.3K Followers 385 Avg. Likes 3.3% Engagement 6,771 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
94.
Lt Col Manoj Kumar Sinha Micro
@ltcolmanojkumarsinhaWriter, Poet, Speaker, Actor, Influencer. A battle injured & gallantry awardee soldier.
15.9K Followers 440 Avg. Likes 2.8% Engagement 7,627 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
95.
Ryan Fugit Micro
@combatstoryTrying to show my kids what real heros look likeInterviews w/ Combat Vets Sat @ noon EST Delta Force, Rangers, Recon, DEVGRU, Snipers, Pilots
15.6K Followers 441 Avg. Likes 4.2% Engagement 4,509 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
96.
Don Faul Micro
@donfaulCEO of - Marine Veteran - Girl Dad.
14.4K Followers 637 Avg. Likes 4.5% Engagement 4,490 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
97.
Sully Luepke Micro
@sullyluepkeUSAF Veteran Stacking W’sChasing the next adventure
14.1K Followers 382 Avg. Likes 3.7% Engagement 8,325 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
98.
Jonathan Marden Micro
@jonnymarden"Jonny"Miami | San Diego | Austin | NYC |Proud American 🇺🇸 Former SEAL 🔱Have Faith
13.9K Followers 329 Avg. Likes 4.5% Engagement 6,009 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
99.
Kai Ryssdal Micro
@kairyssdalDad, husband, host of and Make Me Smart. Craft beer drinker - IPA’s. Soccer referee. Runner. Veteran.
13K Followers 584 Avg. Likes 4.6% Engagement 7,197 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
100.
Christopher Levine II Micro
@veteran_influencers-Podcast 🎙 -U.S Marine-YouTuber-🎤Founder of Veteran Influencers-🇺🇸Co-Founder of Ask-A-Vet
11.3K Followers 317 Avg. Likes 4.3% Engagement 6,058 Posts
Contact: via Instagram profile ↗
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Estimated Instagram rates for this mix
Planning ranges from public 2026 Instagram bands, weighted by the follower-tier mix on this page and a 0.95× veteran adjustment. They are not quotes from the creators below. Usage rights and whitelisting typically add 30–50%.
| Deliverable | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Typical feed post on this list | $1,632 | $6,902 |
| Typical Reel on this list | $2,938 | $10,844 |
| Five-creator test campaign (feed) | $8,160 | $34,510 |
What this veteran influencers ranking actually shows
How-to content with a named method. Tiny specialist audiences punch above their follower weight on conversion because every viewer is already in-market. On this specific list the median account has been posting since around 2009 (average age ~10.5 years; oldest 2011, newest 2020) with roughly 4,974 posts — enough history that you can actually audit a grid before you brief.
Primary language on the roster is English (100%). The list is relatively monolingual, which simplifies caption and landing-page language.
Where gender is labelled, the split is 19 female / 81 male. Use that as a casting hint, not a quota.
Follower-tier mix
| Tier | Creators | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Nano (<10K) | 0 | 0% |
| Micro (10K–100K) | 51 | 51% |
| Mid (100K–500K) | 33 | 33% |
| Macro (500K–1M) | 9 | 9% |
| Mega (1M+) | 7 | 7% |
How to brief veteran influencers
- The creator is an expert — let them reject a talking point that would embarrass them in their community.
- Send the actual tool/product, not just talking points.
- Saves and tutorial completions beat raw views.
Formats that usually work here: tutorial Reels, tool reviews, community AMAs, before/after carousels. Read the ranking methodology or the 2026 rate guide.
Veteran Influencers vs related lists
Veteran Influencers averages 0.1pp less engagement than AI Influencers and has a smaller median audience (92.5K vs 137K).
Veteran Influencers averages 0.8pp more engagement than Cosplay Influencers and has a smaller median audience (92.5K vs 623K).
Veteran Influencers averages 1pp less engagement than Watch Influencers and has a larger median audience (92.5K vs 27.6K).
| List | Creators | Median followers | Avg. ER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran Influencers (this page) | 100 | 92.5K | 2.7% |
| AI Influencers | 70 | 137K | 2.8% |
| Cosplay Influencers | 100 | 623K | 1.9% |
| Watch Influencers | 100 | 27.6K | 3.7% |
Snapshot compiled September 2026 from 100 ranked profiles (100 verified public figures, 0 additional directory listings). Industry engagement midpoints and rate bands are public 2026 Instagram benchmarks, not private platform data. Full methodology.
Veteran Influencers — frequently asked questions
Who are the top veteran influencers in 2026?
Our September 2026 ranking of 100 veteran influencers is led by Jocko Willink, Daven Gates, Shawn Ryan. Combined they represent 27M followers, with an average engagement of 2.7%. 100 entries are verified public figures. The order blends audience size with engagement so a quiet mega-account does not automatically beat a louder mid-tier creator.
How is this veteran list ranked?
Creators are ordered by a blend of followers, engagement rate and posting consistency. Verified public figures with self-hosted photos surface first when we have them. The page also publishes the list’s own maths — median 92.5K followers, 2.7% average ER, 24.4% of reach in the top three — so you can see whether you are looking at a concentrated or diversified niche.
What engagement rate is good for veteran Instagram accounts?
For veteran we treat ~3.8% as the 2026 industry midpoint (specialist hobbies (how-to, pets, crafts, education) are Instagram’s engagement leaders in 2026 tables). This list averages 2.7%, which is 1.1pp below that midpoint. Nano and micro accounts should beat the midpoint; mega accounts can sit well below it and still be efficient on raw impressions.
How much do veteran influencers charge in 2026?
Using public Instagram rate bands weighted by this list’s follower mix and a 0.95× niche adjustment, one organic feed post on a typical account here is $1,632–$6,902; a Reel is $2,938–$10,844. Usage rights, exclusivity and whitelisting usually add 30–50%. These are planning ranges, not quotes from the creators on this page.
Where are these veteran influencers based?
The ranking spans 0 countries. The largest shares are not labelled. If you need a single market, filter the table by country before you export a shortlist.
How can I contact these veteran influencers?
100 public figures on this page link through to Instagram. We do not publish private emails for real people. For a spreadsheet of campaign-ready contacts, request a targeted list — we only include adults who are publicly doing creator work.
How often is the veteran list updated?
Figures on this page were compiled for September 2026. Rankings move as follower counts, engagement and newly surfaced public figures change. Treat it as a current snapshot, not a lifetime league table.
What campaign formats work best with veteran?
The highest-performing briefs in this niche usually mix tutorial Reels, tool reviews and before/after carousels. Lead with one hero Reel, support it with a feed post or carousel, and keep Stories for time-sensitive offers or codes.