Mission Survivors: A Call for Justice and Recognition for Enewetak Atomic Cleanup Veterans
Mission Survivors: A Call for Justice and Recognition for Enewetak Atomic Cleanup Veterans
The article titled "Mission Survivors," penned by Girard Frank Bolton, III, a veteran of the 1977-1980 Enewetak Atoll Atomic Debris Cleanup Mission, shines a light on the ongoing struggles faced by the veterans of this operation. These brave individuals are fighting not only for their own health and well-being but also for the recognition and support they rightfully deserve after serving in one of the most hazardous environments imaginable.
For the survivors of the cleanup mission, two objectives stand at the forefront of their efforts:
Supporting Each Other: Veterans of the Enewetak mission have formed a tightly-knit community, offering each other vital information and moral support as they cope with the ongoing health challenges they face due to their exposure to radiation. This camaraderie serves as an essential lifeline during their most difficult times.
Seeking Congressional Action: The veterans are lobbying Congress to recognize their participation in the mission as "radiation-risk activities during active service." Such recognition would enable them to access federal funds specifically set aside for individuals suffering from health complications related to radiation exposure, ensuring they receive the medical care and compensation they urgently need.
Despite their unwavering service and the commendations they received for their efforts, many of the veterans and their families are now grappling with debilitating health issues, which bring immense emotional and financial burdens. While the Justice Department has acknowledged the need for medical funds for those involved in radiation-risk activities, Congress has yet to include the Enewetak cleanup participants in this category, leaving them without the necessary recognition and support.
The article also delves into a survey of atomic cleanup veterans, which sheds light on the wide-reaching impact of the mission:
Living on the Islands: 314 respondents lived on Lojwa, while 206 lived on Enewetak. Almost all respondents worked on multiple islands during the mission.
Health Challenges: 250 respondents reported facing significant health issues, while 197 did not.
VA Assistance: Out of the survey participants, 141 veterans received VA assistance, while 37 had pending claims. Shockingly, 192 veterans did not seek assistance, highlighting a need for broader awareness and support.
Military Representation: The participants included members from across the Air Force, Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and other branches of the U.S. military.
Bolton’s article highlights the pressing need to raise awareness about the plight of these veterans and to push for legislative action that could finally give them the recognition they deserve. It encourages readers to support Hawaii Rep. Mark Takai’s Bill HR 3870/HR 5980, part of the PACT Act, which could change the classification of their exposure from "occupational" to "at-risk", granting them access to much-needed healthcare and financial support.
In conclusion, "Mission Survivors" is a powerful call to action. It urges readers to stand in solidarity with these forgotten heroes and support the legislative efforts that will ensure their sacrifices are acknowledged and compensated. For more information on their experiences and ways to get involved, the article encourages readers to explore resources available on AtomicCleanupVets.com. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to honor the selfless service of these veterans, who faced immense health risks in service to their country.
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