Glimmer of Lights: Atomic Veteran Girard Frank Bolton

From Adventure to Advocacy: A Combat Draftsman’s Call for Justice and Transparency

Glimmer of Lights: Girard Frank Bolton’s Fight for Atomic Veteran Recognition

From Adventure to Advocacy: A Combat Draftsman’s Call for Justice and Transparency

Girard Frank Bolton's personal account provides a valuable glimpse into the unique challenges faced by the atomic cleanup veterans of Enewetak Atoll. As a combat draftsman, his journey to the Marshall Islands was marked by a sense of adventure, even though he was unaware of the true nature of the mission that lay ahead. Like many others, he volunteered, drawn by the promise of a "fun travel adventure."

His recollections of Enewetak as a paradise contrast sharply with the harsh realities faced by his fellow veterans stationed on different islands. While Girard found satisfaction in his drafting work, he acknowledges the grueling conditions endured by those on Runit and Lowja. The description of living in tents, with rats invading their sleeping quarters, paints a stark picture of the challenges they faced.

Girard's perspective on inadequate protective gear is a troubling aspect of the cleanup mission. The casual approach to radiation protection, with occasional use of RADS badges and reassurances about safety levels, raises questions about the true extent of exposure that the veterans faced. It's evident that the potential health risks were not fully understood or communicated to those on the mission.

The revelation of his atomic veteran status and the subsequent discovery of health issues among fellow veterans prompted Girard to become an advocate for recognition. He recognizes the need for change in how these veterans are classified and acknowledged. His call for easier access to records and recognition as "at risk" veterans rather than just "occupationally exposed" is a plea for justice and support.

Girard's story, like those of other atomic cleanup veterans, reflects a complex history of service and sacrifice. Their pursuit of recognition and assistance is a testament to their resilience and determination to ensure that the world knows about their mission and its lasting impact on their lives. The challenges they face today are a reminder that the consequences of their service continue to affect them, even after four decades.

Girard Frank Bolton's account also sheds light on the enduring struggle for recognition and justice that the atomic cleanup veterans of Enewetak Atoll face. His observation that the cleanup mission became an embarrassment to the government, leading to attempts to sweep it under the rug, speaks to the complex political and bureaucratic challenges these veterans confront. It highlights the need for transparency and accountability in acknowledging the long-term effects of their service.

The contrast between Girard's initial perception of the mission as a "fun travel adventure" and the realization of its serious health implications underscores the importance of informed consent and comprehensive awareness for those who participate in such missions. It serves as a cautionary tale about the potential hazards of military service and the responsibility of governments to protect their servicemen and women.

Girard's determination to speak out and join a growing community of veterans advocating for their rights and recognition is a testament to the power of collective action. It's a reminder that even in the face of bureaucratic challenges and the passage of time, the voice of veterans can be a powerful force for change.