Glimmer of Lights - Atomic Veteran Steve Harrison: A Story of Sacrifice and Forgotten Service
Glimmer of Lights - Atomic Veteran Steve Harrison: A Story of Sacrifice and Forgotten Service
Steve Harrison's personal story from his time serving during the 1977-1980 Enewetak Atoll Atomic Debris Cleanup Mission sheds light on the challenges, sacrifices, and the lack of recognition faced by these veterans who undertook a daunting mission in the Marshall Islands.
Steve served in the US Army with the MOS of 12B10, stationed on Lojwa from 1978 to 1979. His account reflects the spirit of youth and naivety as he and his fellow soldiers embarked on a mission fraught with unknown dangers. In Steve's own words, they were "naive, young, and in their youth," yet they gave their all. They were warriors without a war, volunteering to go to Enewetak because of the accounts shared by those who had already served there. Drawn by camaraderie and a sense of adventure, they found themselves in an environment where discipline was lax, and they adapted to the casual atmosphere.
One striking aspect of Steve's narrative is the lax safety measures and inadequate information provided to the soldiers. They were shown an old movie about the Marshalls that downplayed the radiation risks, likening it to getting dental x-rays. This misinformation left them ill-prepared to protect themselves from the hazardous conditions they would encounter. Steve recalls a particularly hazardous situation involving C-4 detonations. Despite the risks and the contaminated environment, safety precautions were often lacking, forcing soldiers like Steve to make do with inadequate equipment and information.
A recurring theme in Steve's account is the difficulty veterans face in obtaining records and proof of their service at Enewetak. Many veterans struggle to access their records, making it challenging to prove their presence and the health risks they face. "It's as if they are being erased from history," Steve reflects, emphasizing how their sacrifices are going unnoticed by the very institutions they served.
Steve also highlights the general public's lack of awareness about their mission and the government's unwillingness to acknowledge their plight. His words underscore the frustration and desperation felt by many veterans who, like "time bombs," live with the constant uncertainty of potential health issues arising from their service.
In sharing his story, Steve aims to raise awareness about the Enewetak Atomic Cleanup mission and its lasting impact on veterans. He speaks not only of the physical risks but also the emotional toll and the bonds of camaraderie that have kept these veterans connected and motivated to tell the world about their experiences.
Steve Harrison's account adds another voice to the chorus of veterans demanding recognition and support for their sacrifices. It's a poignant reminder of the untold narratives that need to be heard, acknowledging the duty, honor, and service of those who served in the shadows of history.
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