Glimmer of Lights: Atomic Veteran Major Harold 'Harry' A. Rumzek

Honoring Duty, Leadership, and the Silent Heroes of a Forgotten Battle

A Mission of Sacrifice: Major Harold 'Harry' A. Rumzek and the Enewetak Atomic Cleanup

Honoring Duty, Leadership, and the Silent Heroes of a Forgotten Battle

Major Harold "Harry" A. Rumzek, an officer in the U.S. Air Force, played a pivotal role in the Defense Nuclear Agency Radiological Cleanup of Enewetak Atoll. His assignment, from 1977-78, was to serve as the initial USAF Element Commander of the 6015th Support Squadron on Enewetak Atoll, in the Marshall Islands.

The mission aimed to clean up the radioactive fallout from nuclear tests conducted in the late 1940s and 1950s, which had left the atoll contaminated.

Rumzek’s selection for this critical task was a testament to his integrity, dedication, and ability to manage highly demanding roles. With an extensive military background, including service as a B-52D Navigator and experience flying combat missions over Southeast Asia, his leadership was exactly what the mission required.

Despite working in a hostile environment with limited resources and enduring living conditions that were barely tolerable, Rumzek and his team showed unwavering commitment. They worked tirelessly, often in sweltering temperatures, and adapted to the many challenges they faced, all while separated from their families.

As the USAF Element Commander, Rumzek was responsible for managing seven major functional areas, ensuring the success of nearly 900 military, government, and civilian personnel involved in the cleanup. His leadership extended under the direction of Colonel Howard O’Neal, reporting directly to Lieutenant General Bell, Commander-in-Chief of Pacific Air Forces.

One of the significant obstacles Rumzek faced was an adversarial relationship with the Joint Task Group Commander (JTGC). His loyalty to his personnel and commitment to their safety sometimes put him at odds with the JTGC. Nevertheless, Rumzek’s determination ensured his team’s duties were carried out efficiently and with great credit to the U.S. Air Force, completing the mission despite the tension.

Conditions on Enewetak Atoll were harsh—with limited housing, minimal amenities, and logistical challenges related to equipment and communications. Yet Rumzek’s leadership and the dedication of the troops under his command overcame every obstacle to achieve their goals.

Looking back, Major Rumzek felt a deep responsibility for the welfare of the Enewetak Atomic Cleanup Veterans, believing they had been placed in harm's way without adequate radiological protection. Despite the lack of support, both during and after the mission, Rumzek stood by the fact that they had gotten the job done, reflecting the determination and commitment of military personnel, even under the most challenging circumstances.

Major Harold Rumzek’s story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice, leadership, and unwavering dedication demonstrated by the atomic cleanup veterans, whose contributions often remain overshadowed. Their service, perseverance, and silent suffering deserve to be recognized and honored, as they truly embody the essence of duty, honor, and sacrifice.