Living Tribute to Atomic Veteran Michael W. Holston: Dedication and Duty on Enewetak Atoll

"Building a Safer Future, One Load at a Time."

Michael W. Holston, an Army Specialist E4, served with resilience and determination during the Enewetak Atoll cleanup mission from April 18, 1978, to September 20, 1978, as part of the 84th Engineer Battalion. His role as a 20-ton dump truck driver placed him at the heart of the operation, moving radioactively contaminated soil from Enjebi and other nearby islands to Runit Island, where the material was securely encapsulated in the Cactus Crater.

Michael’s work was grueling and dangerous, requiring him to transport contaminated materials over rough terrain and aboard Navy vessels to Runit. Once there, the soil was mixed with concrete and deposited into the crater—a stark reminder of the island’s atomic legacy. Despite the high stakes and exposure risks, Michael carried out his duties with unwavering commitment, helping to rehabilitate the atoll and make it safer for future generations.

Reflecting on his service, Michael recalls the stark realities of working in a radiologically hazardous environment. He remembers Air Force personnel monitoring radiation as he exited the hot zone. One incident stands out: after a contamination alert, he was told to rub dirt on his yellow boots and dispose of his mask—a telling glimpse into the unique challenges faced by those on the ground. Surprisingly, he notes that he never wore a radiation monitoring badge, a detail that underscores the exposure risks these servicemen faced daily.

Michael’s sacrifices did not end with his service. Today, he manages diabetes, chronic high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high triglycerides, health conditions that may or may not be related to his time on Enewetak. Yet, he approaches these challenges with the same resilience that marked his service. Michael receives healthcare through the Temple VA facility in Texas, where he speaks highly of the care provided and continues to advocate for his health.

Michael W. Holston’s service on Lojwa, Enjebi, and Runit Islands is a testament to the enduring dedication of those who served in the Enewetak cleanup mission. His efforts helped pave the way for a safer future, and his story reminds us of the unseen sacrifices made by veterans in hazardous and demanding conditions.

“To Michael W. Holston, we honor your service, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to duty. Your work on Enewetak Atoll stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our Atomic Veterans. Thank you for your resilience and dedication—your legacy continues to inspire us all.”