Tribute to Atomic Veteran Lee H. Briscoe

Rank: E-1

Branch: Army

Role: Combat Engineer, 12B10

Unit: 84th Engineer Battalion, 25th Infantry Division

Service Dates: April 1, 1978 - October 15, 1978

Location: Lojwa, Runit, and Northern Islands

Tribute to Atomic Veteran Lee H. Briscoe, Courageous Combat Engineer

In honor of our brave Atomic Veterans - This tribute honors the dedicated service of Lee H. Briscoe, a young Army E-1 Combat Engineer who played a vital role in the cleanup operations on Lojwa, Runit, and several northern islands within Enewetak Atoll. Serving with the 84th Engineer Battalion, Lee's work involved the dangerous tasks of handling explosives, providing short-term security, and engaging in labor-intensive demolition and cleanup efforts.

As a Combat Engineer, Lee was tasked with the critical job of safely managing explosives to dismantle structures and remove hazardous materials. His work was essential in ensuring that the islands could be made safe for future use, and his contributions to the mission were significant despite the inherent dangers.

Lee's responsibilities extended across multiple islands, including Lojwa and Runit, where he worked tirelessly to support the cleanup and remediation efforts. His role required not only physical strength but also a keen awareness of safety protocols, as the risks associated with his tasks were substantial.

The physical toll of Lee's service became apparent over time, as he later experienced chronic bone pain—a condition he believes to be linked to his exposure during the cleanup operations. Despite these challenges, Lee's dedication to his duty never wavered, exemplifying the resilience and courage that are hallmarks of our Atomic Veterans.

As we reflect on Lee H. Briscoe's service, we honor his bravery and the sacrifices he made in the face of adversity. His work on Enewetak Atoll is a testament to the commitment and fortitude of all those who served in the Atomic Cleanup Project, ensuring that their legacy of service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.