New Information on Veterans Suffering Chemical Exposure in Iraq
In a recent story, The New York Times has reported recently discovered information that sheds light on veterans’ reports of chemical exposure during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Twelve years ago, the Second Platoon of the 811th Ordnance Company was tasked with moving abandoned barrels from an Iraqi Republican Guard warehouse. Some of these barrels leaked, causing immediate exposure symptoms in the soldiers, including vomiting, disorientation, tingling, and numbness. More than 20 soldiers were evacuated for treatment.
Unfortunately, in the time that has passed, these soldiers have been unable to ascertain just what was in those barrels. Several soldiers have complained of ongoing health problems that could be linked to exposure to the then-unidentified chemical. Since 2003, these veterans have not been examined for long-term health problems. But now, thanks to repeated inquiries from The New York Times and tireless work by affected veterans, the chemical has been identified: benzenamine 3,4 dimethyl, an organic compound used in binary rocket fuel, sometimes called Tonka fuel.
This is regrettably only one incident in a broader problem of chemical exposure in Iraq. If you are a veteran who is experiencing symptoms related to an incident that happened in service, you may be entitled to Veterans Disability Benefits. If you served during a period of war and cannot work, you may be entitled to a VA pension. Call Gardberg & Kemmerly, P.C. today at 251-343-1111 to discuss your eligibility for service-connected disability benefits or pension today.