In late 2002, the Department of Defense revealed that it had tested chemical and biological agents by spraying them on ships and sailors between 1962 and 1974. These tests — known as Project 112, which is part of Project Shipboard Hazard and Defense — exposed at least 6,000 service members to harmful chemicals without their knowledge — including Vx nerve gas, Sarin nerve gas and E. coli.
”Our country must ensure that any service member who has become sick or developed a disability because of these tests is provided with the treatment they deserve and benefits they've earned,” Thompson said in a press release. “We cannot wait any longer. Many brave men who served our country are now sick or have passed away because of Project 112's chemical and biological testing. It is our duty to right this wrong and get our service members the care they need.”
