Atomic Veteran Mike Sanford, Enewetak Atoll (1978) Glimmers of Light

Glimmer of Light: A Personal Story by Mike Sanford

Branch: Air Force

AFSC: 46450 EOD

Location: Lowja (Hootch #34)

Year: 1978

Amid the echoes of history and the shadows of sacrifice, the Atomic Cleanup Veterans of Enewetak Atoll rise from the depths of time to share their stories. These are the firsthand accounts of survivors of the 1977-1980 Enewetak Atoll Atomic Debris Cleanup Mission. Their tales, recounted by T-M Fitzgerald—a published author, veteran, and veteran advocate—are more than just recollections; they are the voices of duty, resilience, and courage that deserve to be heard.

One of those voices belongs to Mike Sanford, an Air Force serviceman who served on Lowja in 1978. Mike’s journey, like those of many others, is a story intertwined with camaraderie, danger, and the shadow of radiation.

"I am but one of the survivors," Mike begins, acknowledging the strength that comes from the unity of those who served on Enewetak Atoll. The bond between these men continues to provide mutual support during difficult times—times that were shaped by their service on the atoll. Their secondary goal is a noble one: urging Congress to recognize Cold War Era soldiers and contractors as veterans and workers who participated in radiation-risk activities during active service.

Mike’s story began at Clark Air Base in 1977. Eager for promotion points and a chance to earn a Joint Service Commendation Medal (JSCM), he volunteered for a mission that promised both adventure and opportunity. Yet beneath that youthful enthusiasm lay a deeper, more personal connection. As a World War II enthusiast, the history of the Marshall Islands and the scars left by nuclear testing were etched into his memory.

As a member of the Field Radiological Support Team (FRST), Mike’s role was pivotal in the cleanup operation. His team was armed with radiation detection instruments, charged with measuring contamination levels on both personnel and equipment. His memories flow like a stream of experience, from air samplers to Alpha, Beta, and Gamma detectors, revealing the complexity and risk involved in their mission.

Beyond the technical details, Mike’s story is rich with personal experiences. He remembers riding truck barges and Maggie boats, identifying World War II ordnance, and the sobering reality of working near Ground Zero. With poignant candor, he reflects on the government’s denials and the need for recognition and investigation into the dangers they faced.

Despite these reflections, Mike remains grateful for his family and the life that followed his service. His health issues, while managed with medication, are a reminder of the lasting impact of his service. Yet, he refrains from directly attributing these ailments to radiation exposure, acknowledging the complexity of his situation.

Mike’s journey eventually led him to reconnect with fellow Enewetak Cleanup Vets through Facebook. His personal diary from those days has become a testament to his experiences, a record of his time at Enewetak that now serves as a shared history among a community that truly understands.

Mike’s message to the USA is clear: these veterans deserve respect, support, and recognition. Standing alongside his brothers in arms, Mike advocates for treatment and compensation, urging that these heroes shouldn’t have to beg for what is rightfully theirs. Their stories, like his, are a beacon of truth and justice.

Through the voices of veterans like Mike Sanford, the legacy of Enewetak Atoll lives on—a legacy of service, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for recognition. Their stories will not fade; they are meant to be told, remembered, and, ultimately, honored.