Veterans who served at Fort Ord in California are struggling with cancer and other health issues due to Agent Orange exposure but lack support from the VA.
Hannah Norman and Patricia Kime report for The Daily Montanan.
In short:
- Veterans at Fort Ord were exposed to Agent Orange, a toxic herbicide, leading to cancers and other health problems.
- Despite evidence of contamination, Fort Ord is not recognized by the VA for Agent Orange-related compensation.
- The VA proposed benefits for exposure at other bases but excluded Fort Ord, causing frustration among affected veterans.
Key quote:
“The bottom line is TCDD is the most toxic chemical that man has ever made.”
— Gerson Smoger, lawyer
Why this matters:
Agent Orange has long been associated with a range of serious health conditions, from various cancers to neurological and respiratory disorders. The herbicide contains dioxin, a highly toxic compound known for its long-lasting effects on human health and the environment. While the VA has recognized and provided benefits for veterans exposed to Agent Orange in Vietnam, many who served stateside, like those at Fort Ord, are finding it challenging to get similar recognition and assistance.
