Glimmer of Kights: Kevin "Caveman" Bartlett

The Unseen Risks of Enewetak Atoll’s Atomic Cleanup Mission

Kevin "Caveman" Bartlett: A Journey of Duty and Reflection

The Unseen Risks of Enewetak Atoll’s Atomic Cleanup Mission

Kevin "Caveman" Bartlett's account sheds light on the sense of duty and curiosity that led him to the remote Enewetak Atoll. His experience as a Combat Engineer, working on a rock crusher and drilling holes, is a testament to the diversity of tasks undertaken by those involved in the cleanup mission. What stands out is the lack of protective gear and information provided to these soldiers, who, for years, assumed their mission was safe, as they were led to believe.

As Kevin reflects on his past and the knowledge he has gained in recent years about the potential risks he faced, his story serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, documentation, and proper protective measures for those serving in hazardous environments. His faith in God and willingness to share his testimony underscore the resilience and camaraderie of the Enewetak Atomic Cleanup Veterans, who continue to seek recognition and justice for their service and the health challenges they face.

"The type of protective gear we’d wear depended on where we worked," Kevin recalls. "Most of the time, we just wore Jungle boots, socks, cutoffs, and maybe a headband." For more radioactive areas like Runit, they were required to wear rubber booties and a dust mask, but that was the extent of their protection. Kevin vividly remembers the one time he was fully suited up—in a banana suit and respirator—when he was being filmed for a training production. "It was interesting that the only time I was in state-of-the-art protective clothing was when I was being filmed," he adds.

Kevin's journey to Enewetak was driven by a sense of duty and a desire to contribute to a mission he believed in, even though he didn't fully grasp its implications at the time. His dedication as a Combat Engineer, working tirelessly on various tasks, reflects the unwavering commitment of all those involved in the cleanup. These young men, many just teenagers, displayed remarkable courage and selflessness.

What becomes evident is the discrepancy between their expectations and the harsh reality they faced. The lack of protective gear and information about the potential dangers they were exposed to highlights the importance of proper training and safeguards for those serving in hazardous environments. Kevin's story is a testament to their enduring spirit, as they persevered through challenging conditions.

In recent years, Kevin's quest for knowledge has led him to discover the potential risks associated with his service on Enewetak. Despite this revelation, he maintains a positive outlook, guided by his faith in God. His willingness to share his experiences and concerns demonstrates the strength of the bond among the Enewetak veterans, who support each other through the challenges they continue to face.

Kevin "Caveman" Bartlett's story embodies the values of duty, honor, and service. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these veterans and their enduring commitment to seeking recognition and justice. Their collective voice shines a light on the need for transparency, documentation, and support for those who serve in hazardous missions, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.