Honoring Atomic Veteran Brian D. Brown

In Honor of Brian D. Brown, Air Force Avionics Technician and Typhoon Evacuation Veteran

Rank: E-4

Branch: Air Force

Unit: 32551 Avionics Instrument & Auto-Pilot Technician, 610th MASS, Yokota AB, Japan

Service Dates: 12/26/1977 - 1/7/1979

Location: Enewetak, Runit, and other locations

Brian D. Brown, an E-4 in the United States Air Force, served as an Avionics Instrument & Auto-Pilot Technician with the 610th MASS out of Yokota AB, Japan. His deployment to Enewetak Atoll placed him at the forefront of operations during a critical event in the region—Typhoon Mary, a Category 5 storm that swept through, necessitating the evacuation of personnel.

Brian was part of the maintenance team responsible for ensuring the readiness of the C-141A aircraft that conducted the evacuation. Over 900 people were transported to Guam during the emergency, with passengers seated in makeshift arrangements—knee to back, using tie-down straps as seatbelts. The operation was intense, and after safely transporting the evacuees, Brian and his team quickly returned to continue assisting with post-storm recovery.

Beyond the evacuation, Brian worked closely with the Navy, checking on generators and assisting with communications equipment in the aftermath of the storm. His responsibilities spanned multiple tasks, from monitoring antennas to ensuring the functionality of critical infrastructure alongside Navy and Army personnel. His technical expertise and adaptability were essential during this challenging period.

While Brian has not been diagnosed with cancer, a common concern among atomic veterans, his major health challenge has been the loss of his military medical records. After serving nearly 24 years in the Air Force, he faces the frustration of having only 10 pages of medical documentation despite decades of service. This has led to an ongoing congressional inquiry that has lasted for years as he continues to seek a resolution for the lost records that are crucial to his care.

Although Brian's frustration with certain organizations is clear, his dedication to service and the responsibilities he shouldered during his time in Enewetak are a testament to his resilience and commitment. His efforts during the Typhoon Mary evacuation and his work in the post-storm recovery operations highlight his critical role in ensuring the safety and stability of the mission in a highly volatile environment.

As we honor Brian D. Brown, we acknowledge the contributions he made as an Air Force technician and the ongoing challenges he faces in securing the recognition and support he deserves for his service. His story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in remote, hazardous locations and the importance of maintaining proper records to ensure their well-being.