Legacy of Our Veterans' Military Exposures
Justice - social, environmental, human
Protecting our veterans' childrenℱ

World War II Exposures

Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA)
On October 5, 1990, Congress passed the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act ("RECA" or "the Act"), 42 U.S.C. § 2210 note, providing for compassionate payments to individuals who contracted certain cancers and other serious diseases as a result of their exposure to radiation released during above-ground nuclear weapons tests or as a result of their exposure to radiation during employment in underground uranium mines. The 1990 Act provided fixed payments in the following amounts: $50,000 to individuals residing or working "downwind" of The Nevada Test Site; $75,000 for workers participating in above-ground nuclear weapons tests; and $100,000 for uranium miners. Learn More
The Chemical-Biological Warfare Exposures Site
WORLD WAR II Provides information on potential exposures from testing during and immediately after World War II. Learn more
Veterans and Radiation
While the occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki occurred more than 50 years ago and U.S. atmospheric nuclear weapons tests ended in 1962 many of the approximately 400,000 participants (often called Atomic Veterans) and their families continue to be concerned that ionizing radiation cuase the veterans' illnesses, especially cancer, and also may be responsible for health problems in their offspring. OPEN PDF

Secret World War II Chemical Experiments Tested Troops By Race

Toxic Military Exposures

Ionizing Radiation

Exposures at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan and health problems from harmful radiation. Learn more

Mustard Gas

Odorless, poisonous gas used during combat in World War I and II. Learn more

Occupational Hazards

Exposures from working with chemicals, paints, and machinery during service. Learn more
Mustard Disaster at Bari
The Joseph Wheeler took a direct hit and exploded. Several other ships were hit and exploded. The John Harvey remained intact sustaining no direct bomb damage but caught fire when showered by flaming debris from a nearby damaged ship. The situation was extremely serious because of the mustard bombs on board. Without warning, the John Harvey blew up. Everyone on board was killed instantly and pieces of the ship and her cargo were hurled into the air. Mustard released from the broken bombs mixed with the oil on the waters surface and with billowing clouds of smoke. Learn more

Non-Toxic Military Exposures

Noise

Harmful sounds from guns, equipment, and machinery that is often experienced during service. Learn more

Cold Injuries

Health problems that could be caused by cold temperatures, such as during the Battle of the Bulge. Learn more

IOM Reports

World War II IOM Reports

Source: Department of Veterans Affairs

What's in the News