Glimmer of Lights: Atomic Veteran Sammie Lee Marler
Glimmer of Lights: Atomic Veteran Sammie Lee Marler's Journey of Service, Sacrifice, and Struggle
Sammie Lee Marler's personal narrative offers a poignant glimpse into the life of a soldier who served during the Enewetak Atoll Atomic Debris Cleanup Mission in 1977. His story is one of unwavering duty, profound sacrifice, and a relentless plea for recognition and support for veterans who participated in this critical, yet often forgotten, mission.
As a U.S. Army Corpsman (MOS 91B20), Marler’s primary responsibility was to provide medical care to his fellow soldiers stationed across the radioactive islands of Enewetak Atoll. His tasks involved not only overseeing the health of the soldiers but managing the logistical challenges of their work schedules, medical supplies, and monitoring the extreme heat, which at times soared above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. These harsh conditions required work rotations to prevent heat-related illnesses, compounding the already dangerous nature of their mission.
A central and unsettling aspect of Marler's experience was the lack of protective gear provided, despite the significant radiation risks they faced. Though shown yellow banana suits, they were never required to use them, and Marler himself was never issued a dosimeter badge to track radiation exposure. This lack of protection became a glaring point of concern later, as the health toll on these veterans began to emerge.
As time passed, Marler and his fellow veterans began to experience a range of severe health problems, many battling cancer and other radiation-related illnesses. Their initial reassurances about the relative safety of the Marshall Islands compared to parts of the U.S. felt hollow and deceptive in hindsight, fueling Marler’s drive to share the truth of their exposure. His decision to speak out stems from a deep sense of betrayal, a recognition that the dangers they faced were downplayed, and that they were left to suffer without proper support.
Beyond the physical dangers, the emotional and psychological toll of his service continues to haunt Marler. His struggle with PTSD remains a stark reminder of the enduring impact of his time on the atoll. One particularly harrowing memory involves the presence of oversized rats on Lojwa, some as large as full-grown cats. His vivid recollection of killing over fifty of these rats with a spear gun and feeding their remains to sharks illustrates the intense and disturbing conditions they lived through, adding layers to the trauma many of the veterans still carry.
Despite the hardships, Marler sought to uplift the spirits of his comrades, finding solace in moments of levity.
Whether calling bingo games, leading a band called 'Singing Sam and the Superstuds,' or performing as the MC and comedian in a visiting USO show, Marler's efforts provided moments of joy in an otherwise grim environment. His ability to maintain morale amid such extreme adversity speaks to the resilience and camaraderie that defined their shared experience.
Sammie Lee Marler’s story is not just a personal testament to his journey but a reminder of the sacrifices made by all who served during the Enewetak Atoll Atomic Debris Cleanup Mission. His call for recognition and support is a plea to acknowledge the hidden costs of their service and provide the medical care they desperately need.
It is a narrative that underscores duty, brotherhood, and the lasting impact of serving in one of the most hazardous operations in military history.
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