Tribute to Atomic Veteran Army Sergeant Titus Lee Whitehead

Tribute to Atomic Veteran Army Sergeant Titus Lee Whitehead: A Legacy of Service Across Continents

Rank: E-5

Branch: Army

Role/Job: 71L20 Administrative Specialist

Service Dates: 12/6/1978 - 10/6/1979

Location: Enewetak Atoll, Marshall Islands

In the remote reaches of the Marshall Islands, Sergeant Titus Lee Whitehead answered his nation’s call during the Enewetak Atoll Atomic Debris Cleanup Mission, serving as an Assistant Historical Records Specialist with the Defense Nuclear Agency Joint Task Group. From December 6, 1978, to October 6, 1979, Whitehead's presence on Enewetak was essential to the mission’s success, working closely with engineers stationed on Lojwa and Runit while facing the challenges of operating in a radioactive environment.

His role was not only pivotal in maintaining the historical records of the operation but also in ensuring the coordination between different groups of engineers across the islands. The day-to-day work required meticulous record-keeping, but it also involved navigating the physical and environmental dangers that loomed over the entire operation.

Sergeant Whitehead was still stationed on Enewetak when Typhoon Alice struck, forcing a mass evacuation and halting operations. The destruction from the typhoon was extensive, taking out barracks intended to house female soldiers and damaging key warehouses. Yet, amidst the chaos, Whitehead continued his work, showing the resilience and commitment to duty that defined his military career.

His experiences in Enewetak, combined with his later service in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, have left Whitehead grappling with health concerns that have yet to be fully addressed. Daily nosebleeds, sinus issues, and shortness of breath have become part of his life, and while he has not yet received treatment for potential exposure to toxicants during his service, he remains vigilant in ensuring these ailments are recognized as part of his personal medical history.

In Sergeant Titus Lee Whitehead, we see a soldier who, despite uncertainty about the long-term effects of his service, continues to uphold the values of the Army. His dedication during the cleanup mission, particularly in his work at Joint Task Group Headquarters, underscores the quiet heroism of those who worked behind the scenes, far from the front lines but no less essential to the mission.

As we reflect on his contributions, it becomes clear that Whitehead’s story is one of perseverance, sacrifice, and a deep sense of responsibility. His work ensured that future generations would understand the magnitude of the task that was undertaken at Enewetak, and his personal struggles with health now serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of such missions.

Today, we honor Sergeant Titus Lee Whitehead for his service and sacrifice. His story is not just one of dedication during a unique and hazardous mission, but also of ongoing courage as he seeks recognition and care for the health effects of his service. His unwavering commitment to duty, both on the islands of Enewetak and later in the deserts of Saudi Arabia, stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Atomic Cleanup Veterans.