Atomic Veteran Vincent Lewis, Enewetak Atoll (1979): Glimmers of Light
Atomic Veteran Vincent Lewis, Enewetak Atoll (1979): Glimmers of Light
Vincent Lewis, an Air Force veteran, offers a deeply personal account of his time serving on Lojwa in 1979 as part of the Atomic Cleanup Veterans of Enewetak Atoll. His story adds another unique voice to the collective narrative of those who undertook the monumental task of cleaning up the radioactive remnants of nuclear testing on Enewetak Atoll. Through his experiences, Vincent provides a glimpse into the motivations, challenges, and reflections of a young man thrust into one of the most hazardous environments of the Cold War era.
Vincent's journey began with his decision to enter the military through the delayed enlistment program, driven by the opportunity to access the GI Bill to further his education. Like many of his peers, Vincent was determined to use his military service as a stepping stone toward self-improvement. His personal goal was clear—securing an education that would allow him to build a better future. Yet, this drive for education intersected with a mission he never expected: the cleanup of radioactive debris in the Marshall Islands.
One of the first aspects of his story that stands out is the racial diversity Vincent encountered during his deployment, as well as the impact his presence as one of the few African Americans had on him. His reflections on race add another layer to the story, emphasizing the cultural and social dynamics within the ranks of those stationed on the atoll. Vincent admits that before being called to serve at Enewetak, he knew little about the Marshall Islands, Enewetak, or Lojwa. Like many servicemen, he placed his trust in the military's history of temporary duty assignments and took comfort in the words of a colleague who had previously served at Enewetak, showcasing a mixture of naivety and acceptance that often accompanies military life.
Once on the atoll, Vincent found himself amid an intense and grueling cleanup mission. His work as part of the Field Radiological Survey Team (FRST) involved overseeing decontamination hotlines, where he was responsible for monitoring air samples, nasal swipes, and ensuring that proper safety protocols were followed during decontamination processes. His background in nondestructive inspection gave him an understanding of the risks of ionizing radiation, and he recalls frequent discussions among Air Force personnel about the dangers of the environment they were working in.
Despite these conversations, there was a lack of clear information or data regarding the extent of the hazards they were facing. Vincent's account reveals a sense of camaraderie among the veterans, but also a growing awareness of the uncertainty and risks surrounding their mission. The reality of the radiation exposure became more apparent as health issues began to surface among those who had served on the atoll. Vincent expresses a growing sense of urgency in sharing their stories, as more veterans started to experience the adverse effects of radiation exposure.
Throughout his narrative, Vincent reflects on the broader context of military service and sacrifice. He notes that members of the military have historically been exposed to radiation and other hazardous conditions without a full understanding of the potential consequences. He emphasizes the integral role their service played in gathering scientific data and advancing knowledge, but he also underscores the importance of recognition and understanding from society at large.
Vincent's story concludes with a call for acknowledgment and support for the veterans of the Enewetak Cleanup Mission. He highlights the lack of recognition from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for their service and the health risks they endured, expressing frustration at the government’s failure to address the needs of those who served. His narrative sheds light on a lesser-known chapter in military history and the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition that many veterans still face.
Through his words, Vincent Lewis contributes to the growing collective voice of the Atomic Cleanup Veterans, advocating for the respect, healthcare, and assistance they rightfully deserve. His story is a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who served in one of the most dangerous cleanup missions of the Cold War era.
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