First Thoughts
Hello to all.
I am setting up this blog to get the input, feelings, stories and information about one and all who were stuck on this wretched Atoll for the cleanup.
I was stationed on Lojwa from Aug. '78 to Feb. '79 with the 84th Engineer Battalion from Schofield barracks, Hawaii. I was volunteered 8 months before my departure from active duty. Had no choice in the matter, go and do my duty.
I lived on the Island of Lojwa, with all the other "Animals", but took a boat ride to Runit every morning. On Runit I worked as a debagger, Mike "the debagger" Dager. Busted my ass for 6 months, actually 5 months then got a double hernia and spent the last month resting, spent a wonderful Christmas and New Year with a bunch of good guys, partying our butts off.
If any of you remember the Engineer Bar, Steve McKee and I were the driving force in building this oasis away from civilization. Spent many nights hanging out and telling stories.
I have been experiencing some strange ailments as of late, Osteopenia, bone density loss, thin skin among other more serious problems. Wondering if anyone else has had similar problems. Looking into trying to get disability rating from the VA. We will see how that goes. Hope to hear from some of the hardworking guys that were there before, during and after my stay.
I am setting up this blog to get the input, feelings, stories and information about one and all who were stuck on this wretched Atoll for the cleanup.
I was stationed on Lojwa from Aug. '78 to Feb. '79 with the 84th Engineer Battalion from Schofield barracks, Hawaii. I was volunteered 8 months before my departure from active duty. Had no choice in the matter, go and do my duty.
I lived on the Island of Lojwa, with all the other "Animals", but took a boat ride to Runit every morning. On Runit I worked as a debagger, Mike "the debagger" Dager. Busted my ass for 6 months, actually 5 months then got a double hernia and spent the last month resting, spent a wonderful Christmas and New Year with a bunch of good guys, partying our butts off.
If any of you remember the Engineer Bar, Steve McKee and I were the driving force in building this oasis away from civilization. Spent many nights hanging out and telling stories.
I have been experiencing some strange ailments as of late, Osteopenia, bone density loss, thin skin among other more serious problems. Wondering if anyone else has had similar problems. Looking into trying to get disability rating from the VA. We will see how that goes. Hope to hear from some of the hardworking guys that were there before, during and after my stay.
posted by Debagger at 6:58 PM
75 Comments:
Barbara - do you get The Star? I'm Mike's wife and I write an opinion column. It runs every other Thursday in west county, but doesn't always appear in east county editions. Did you see it on Thursday? It was about the atomic vets.
Barbara,
I'm sorry to hear about your father, was he a cook? If so he made us very happy, that was the one good thing on the island, the food. Always good and plenty of it.
HI THIS IS NORMAN SOVA AND I WAS THERE FROM 1978 TO 1979.THE PHOTO OF THE BAR BRINGS BACK MEMORYS.I HAVE A PHOTO OF ME AND A GUY NAMED ANIMAL.ALSO THE STORM PHOTO;IM THE SECOND GUY FROM THE FRONT.PLEASE CONTACT ME AT NSOVA55290@MSN.COM
What a shock to see lojwaanimals.blogspot after running a search for Enewetak Atoll. My name is Bill Keller, some called me "Billy Bulldozer" while I was on Enewetak Jan 79 to Jan 80. I was on Lojwa until Oct 79 (I think) and then went to air conditioned! barracks on Enewetak. I did get to take part in the demobilization of Lojwa. It was almost sad. While on Runit I ran the 5 yd loader for a short time, in the full banana suit, and then went to D-8 dozer and the quarry. The blasts were always interesting. And yes, I am one of the strange ones that stayed a full year. I would have stayed until the end, but Apr 80 was my ETS date...wasn't going to miss another one, and I was beginning to wonder about the real world.
I sometimes wonder where everyone I met there have gone. In the past 2 or 3 years I have heard from Norm Sova (and yes Norm, I do remember you...the rolled up hat brim jogged a brain cell or 2) and Dennis Alexander. I lost (or shall I say, the Army lost) almost all of my photos from the tour. I have found a few and I will try to get them posted in the near future.
Thanks for starting this blog, I really appreciate it. I wish everyone the best, and it would be great to hear from you animals. wok@beer.com (yep, it's a real email addy)
Hey WOK, good to hear from you. I have been working on this blog for a while now, happy to see it is getting some hits. Hope all is well, check back from time to time, I will post new pictures.
Beer.com looks interesting I will have to check that out too.
i was in lojawa in late 77' iwas with a co. drove 20 ton dumps and erma the 5 ton stake bed to sally to drop off troops jimbo gallager, patty green, papa john statton, john blackwell were some of the guys that hung together i had the corner desk & bnk we built the big rock fire place right outside the door.i am trying to remember the names but it has been a while. did anyone work on the high rise on janet? 140 deg. in a banana suit running a jack hammer ,so much fun. would like to hear from some of the old gang
Mike, Great site. It's Great to see some interest in the 'Lojwa Animals' past. I search Enewetak every now and then, and came across your site today.Very Exciting. I'm still in heavy construction, with Rogers Group, Inc. out of Nashville, Tennessee as a Senior Project Manager.I hope you and the rest of the 'Lojwa Animals' are also doing well.I agree with another post---- the civilian mess hall was one of the best places on Lojwa, especially Saturday night.
Steve McKee--mckee5558@msn.com or littlebuddysteve@gmail.com
My father was in Enewetak from 78 to 79.Jim Armitage cwo ret.With the 84th Engineer Battalion.Larc 60 team.He has no sign of any cancer at this time...Thank God,cause i was so worried about him getting some kind of cancer from being over there...My Prayers to the familys who have lost loved ones for their service during the clean up....my main reason for leaving a message is about the grey color t shirts with the lojwa animal(monster)on them.I have one of my fathers.It is in poor shape.I would love to make some new ones with better quality grey t shirts.Maybe personalized with the year and the persons name and with what group,or Battalion. My father was told the grey t's you guys wore were leftovers from WWII or the Korean war....maybe someone has already done this,but would love to get this project going if not done yet for all that have served during the 77 to 80 clean up.I can make a stencil of the Lojwa animal from my old t shirt...if any of you would like to start placing orders,and have ideas for how you would like them done,i will get making them.I will start to find out what my cost would be,and let all know who are interested...those t shirts were so COOL that i will make a new one for my self as well.
my email is w8lessm@aol.com
pic of Larc 60 team Lojwa Base Camp
my father is on far right in sun glasses
http://img207.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=94480_lojwa_122_340lo.jpg
Hey Mike I meant to leave my blog address.It is a work in progress.I have lots of work to do on it.I thought many that served in the clean up would like a Lojwa Animal t shirt.I have a stencil of the animal and will be soon making them.Now after hearing about all the deaths due to exposure i am worried for my fathers future.I would also like to give my support and appreciation to all that served by donating proceeds to The National Cancer Institute,or a better institute if you know of one.......Matt Armitage
http://lojwa.blogspot.com/
hi my name is ken wilson i was an animal from 78 to 79 i drove a dump truck rode on the lark to runit to off load brings back alot of memories
My name is Ken Brownell I was with the first party to arrive on the island we slept in tents drank warm beer and showered from a 55 gal. drum on top of a 2x4 frame. We cleared brush and started the base camp.A few guys I worked with stay in touch but would like to hear from more.
Hi! My name is Doreen Vollbrecht and my husband, Steve, was the IMDT (AF medic) on Lowja. He passed away from mesothelioma (asbestos cancer). I remember one of the guys that he "hung out" with was called Grape Ape. Anyone know how to reach him? He was also great friends with Ken Kasik, the PX manager. I remember that he kept our boys entertained with stories of "rat stomping in flip flops" at the dump, and the time he was "bitten" by a shark he caught while it had been landed and was on the pier, and the story of the octopus that bit him on the shoulder, and the time the camp doc went sailing and never came back. Would like to communicate with anyone that wishes to do the same... dvollbrecht@satx.rr.com.
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Aloha guys,what a blast from the past.Heres a few pictures of da- island of our past.Ive got hundreds of pictures, just thought Id tease you with a few for now.Alls well in paradise.Great talking with you steve.ps hows the catch of the day?I just got this e-mail address for this site.
email: KenKasik@live.com
call: 8086226185
or visit my blog: http://lojwa-enewetak.blogspot.com/
VISIT TO SEE PICTURES AND ADD YOUR OWN:
http://photobucket.com/KENKASIK
Is this blog site still working? Looks like nobody has bloged for some time now. I was on the Island from Aug 78 to Feb 79, (the mail Island mainly) Just looking for information on illness due to this wonderful place the Military sent us to.
Allen Beck
Lojwa Animal...now that's a term I've not heard in years. I was an Air Force SSGT stationed on the atoll from September 1978 to Febraury 1979. I ran the post office on Enewetak and guess I had it easier than the guys at Lojwa...lived in the concrete barracks. Got to Lojwa several times a week to deliver mail via Army helicopter. While I was there, Paul Crandall was the Air Force Commander...he died some years ago from a type of cancer. I survived two typhoons on the island with the last one being Alice in January 1979. Just prior to that storm's arrival, Captain Flores, an Air Force Doctor, disappeared while sailing in the lagoon. As I recall, speculation was that he was washed out over the western reef and no one could see his small sunfish due to the high waves associated with the approaching storm. I've a photo of me after Alice along with one of the atoll I took from a helicopter. Those usually sit on my desk at work reminding me that no matter how bad this day is, I have been worse. Good to hear from others who endured this remote location.
Hey to all my fellow ANIMALS, I am Aaron Ducote, I was voluntold and hit the Atoll from Jan - July 1979.
I drove a 20 Ton Dump truck and stayed on Lojwa also. It's all like a blur now to remember much about that place but once I read all of your mail it brought back so many memories. You know, rat stomping at the dump pit, shell collecting oh yes and the damn bananna suits. But I have to say. The out door movies and the steak and endless alcohol was at the top of the list.
I am sorry to hear about all of the illness we face in these days. I regret I don't remember Antibes name that I served time with too. I wish we could some how compile all of our assorted photos and make a CD available to our brothers.
We need more memories to pass along to our families who probably are like mine, doubtful that this could have existed at all.
Respectfully,
Aaron Ducote, EODK9@aol.com
im mark huppman as was on lojwa from aug.78 to jan.79 with b company 84th engineers. doreen, ur husband treated me for ring worm, whatever the hell that was. and yes the doc did sail away, but not alone. i remember his face but no name.he also was in the af.moody was killed on sally by sexton who was running a dozer trying to jump a 20 ton. and baby hughey went off and ran a 5ton into a hooch trying to wack someone. hit the wrong rack though. lol.and the c4 chewers died after they shipped out.i've only had a case of melonama that was caught in time and am otherwise healthy.i wish all my fellow animals the best.it was something i know all of us will never forget. if u like, my e-mail is jesttme@yahoo.com. take care my brothers
Hi to all,
My name is Kim Evers and I also served on Enewetak Atoll from Oct. 1979 till March 1980. We were part of the last group to leave the rock.
I have been trying to get in touch with anyone who was there and found this site. I would like to here from anyone who was there and how they are doing. I now have some health problems and wonder if it or all of it is from Enewetak. Please email me at kimmarye@hotmail.com
My name is Kim Evers and I also spent some time on Enewetak Atoll. I was there from Oct. 1979 till March 1980 we were part of the last group to leave there. I would like to here from anyone who was there and I glad I found this web site. email me kimmarye@hotmail.com
Hey All Lojwa Animals! It is just great to see all the blogs from a past with so many memories! I was on Lojwa (77-78)We were the second group to show up.I was a crane operator and we built the water tank and installed telephone poles and of coarse many other tasks. We lived in hooch 13 with the picket fence and the skeleton head cross above the entrance to our (yard with the rock bbq builtin it) I hope some of you remember that! I have a bunch of pics that I hope to post on here soon to jog all our memories,which at times I struggle with!I do remember some of the names I've seen on here -Patty Green from chicago was a good friend Ed drappla ect.Any one remember a first leautenant we called the pillsberry dough boy that was younger than us? And when we threw him off the cause way? I could go on forever on the stories but we'll do that later ! Hope to here from anyone from hooch 13! oh and sandbagging on xmas eve from the typhoon and going across the lagoon at night trying to get to enewetak to be flown out to guam! Oh Guam what a fun time! my email is spaul56@directv.net if you want to contact me !
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Damm, I freaked out finding this blog. I was a Lojwa aniamal 78-79. They moved a bunch of us to Enewetak, we put a sign outside our houch "Home of the Lojwa Animals" with a big pot leaf on it and sold runway weed to everyone it even smelled like the real thing!
I was on Enewetak from December '78 to May '79, serving as a medic with the Body Snatchers dustoff unit.
I remember our visits to Lowja and the other islands with some fondness, Lowja and the crew there were always interesting and I can't help but laugh when I remember that they took away the silverware and glasses from the mess hall.
I also remember the searching we did looking for that Air Force Doctor and the medic that was with him on that Sunfish. We searched all the islands throughly and even chanced loosing sight of the islands by taking three choppers out beyond the reef where one stayed in view of the islands, the second and third ones flew on until the second chopper was keeping visual with the 1st and the third flew out as far as we dared while keeping an eye on the 2nd bird. With those winds, flat islands and relatively low altitudes we had to search from, it was more than a bit risky should one crew loose sight of the other. We were VFW only.
We believed that the airmen were swept out in the deep channel which, we had been told, moved about 90% of the water out of the atoll.
IIRC, the hull of the sailboat was found sometime latter way the heck away from the islands.
On the health issues, I have psoriasis which started out there, as well as permanent fatigue, hot flashes and supposedly do not process oxygen properly and various other problems related to my service there.
And yes, rat stomping was a real good time;-)
Eli
I was at Lojwa from April 1978 until Sept 1978. My name is Jim Proffitt I was with the Army.
Where is Moose I served with him on Lojwa Base. We use to snorkle a lot and drink a lot. Also Dave Denning, Steve LaGrande, Ken Basil, Dave McDaniels. I was stationed at Fort Campbell Kentucky. I was in the 20th Engineer Bargade. I called my sleeping space Rebar Hotel. haha.
I was a friend of mooses. He camae from Panama with about 14 other guys. One of them would have been The Griz--Grizwald just like The Moose big polish kid.
I saw him in Kansas once he left the isleand and then again in Boston once out of the military.
I told all those guys in 20 yrs they would end up with lukemia. Suprised all of you havee not at this point. I can be reached at jcrhdd@gmx.com.
Moose sent me a picture of a giant clam he turned into a bbque on the island. That would have had to stand out in someones mind.
Yeah i can remember Moose carrying that clam shell out of the lagoon. We had more than a few olyes together.
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I was stationed on Lojwa in 77 and 78. I was a power plant operator at the Cat House known as the "Kid."(Don't mess with me if you want your movie tonight.) What an experience. We were the infamous group that took the "shoes and shirts" policy at the PX a little too literally. Major 'splainin on that one.
I will never forget the fresh lobster we "found" on the reef at low tide. We started our own "resort" establishment called the Hotel California and when I left we had one of the few televisions that we purchased with the profits. Great for those week old football games. ARRRRR ARRRRRRR!
This is Jim Proffitt again. I was at LOJWA BASE April 15 1978 - September 1978. We all made the best of a bad tour. I remember the 6 day work weeks ,hot sun 120 degree plus temperatures. Our guys worked on Janet ,we worked with demolition C4 mainly. We would set the charges on different concrete structures, get on a boat, leave the island, blow the charges then return to the island and pick up the ruble and throw it on a 20 ton dump. We would drive the dump trucks on a maggie boats. The boats would take them out to the lagoon and the crane would unload them. The high spots were good friends, good food, and lots of beer. With an occasional doobie. Ive got plenty of pictures. You can reach me at pljproffitt@aol.com 513 267 0051. Some people knew me as the Cincinnati kid.
Hi all. My name is Jim Patterson I spent some time on lojwa in 79. Worked in the heavy equipment maintenance shop on Runit. Boy does this blog bring back some memories. Remember the Saturday night toga parties. Watching Animal house night after night rain or not. would love to here from anyone that remember. Email address is jjpiii@comcast.net
I was on the islands 77-78. Worked on enjebi ,runit and a couple of others I think. Blew the elements out of 3 geiger counters in a row coming out of a hot zone on Runit one day! I recall the xmas eve evacuation to Guam due to tropical storm and the following storm, which we did not evacuate for. That one washed all the Navys' lcms up on shore and put us out of commission for a month. Also recall wtching the crane buckle when the lt. ordered the crane operator to use a 3 ton wrecking ball on a crane that was only designed for a 1 ton ball. This was in spite of the operators' warning..was that you operating Scott Paul? I don't recall a lot of names, but I hung around with Dan Kroemmelbein, Serge Deselex, Dave Choate and others. I do remember Ken Kasik , as well. On our last night on Lojwa, one of the new guys ran a 5 ton dump truck through the side of our barracks trying to kill one of the other guys. Wish everyone the best. Would love to hear from others and pray for those of you who have ended up sick. randy roberts roberts.rr@pg.com
Was on Lojwa Jan-Jun '79-- Worked in motor pool and several islands--have had skin cancer and colon cancer--other than that doing good.A lot of memories from back then.
I was at Lojwa from 77-78 and remember being evacuated to Guam for Christmas. That was a nice ride on C141 and being strapped to the floor because only on aircraft came. The ride across the atoll that nice was also fun. I was one the Air Force guys who did the radiological monitoring. Does anyone remember the USO show that entertained us. I can be reached at jnoverola@gmail.com. If frenchy of Steve is out there it would be nice to hear from you.
First time on this blog...on any blog for that matter. checking all the sign in crap before posting my Enewiat thoughts
Okay..I'm Tony D. not anaymous. I was lucky enough to be in the a/c'd barracks on Enewitak. Lot of memories, most others have a hard time believing!I made it to Lojwa many times on the Taxi, until the big storm sunk it. If you ever beached an LST or mike boat on the boat ramp of the main island in '79, I probably pushed you back into deep water with my D-8. One of 2 Seabees there at the time. Hope this blog is still active, would love to see more pics and maybe find someone with the 60 minutes video.Hope to hear from someone soon!
WOW, I can not believe I ran across this web page, I worked the motor pool as dispatcher, parts clerk. I was on Lojwa I beleive thru the summer of 79. I also called bingo in the club. I use to get so drunk I couldnt read the numbers on the balls LOL. Of course I had to drink fast cause I only got free drinks while I was calling bingo lol God does that bring back some memories.. I will leave my email address for anyone who might have been there with me. So far no medical problems, of course when I seen what was going on I took the dispatch job so I didnt have to leave lojwa, might have been a smart move on my part ??? chriskoker.ck@gmail.com I am going to look at the pics now..
OK I had to thinkl a little harder about this, it was not 79 I was there it was 78 I waas in Korea in 79 oops lol, OH Well.. Chris Koker also known as the wizard
Great to see that more people are posting--have started work on recreating some tshirts with Lojwa Animal-- Leave Me Alone I am Having A Crisis --- Wanted to put on back of shirt and On front left put Lojwa Animal and dates of sercie there--- A lot of drunken nights as well as other things-- Mess Hall was great
Need to contact anyone who was on Enewetok from Apr 79 until Jan 80. I need to find out what problems you have been having since leaving the island. And does anyone know how to contact Wild Willie that used to meet all the planes coming in? Also looking for Tiny that used to be in the admin area I think.
I can be contacted at ProdigalsRest@aol.com I'm sorry I didn't include the e mail address in the first post
My name is Jeff Mesenger, I was on Lojwa in 1978.I was from the 84th engr from Oahu Hi. I worked with a civillian carpenter named Shelly. We repaired the barracks from all the wild parties that would go on. Remember Hotel California, it was the islands own after hours joint. I even repaired and got the putt-putt course going. Would like to hear from others. email is jmesenger@yahoo.com
I was there on Lowja from Sept 1978 to Feb 1979. I was an aniaml and I remember serving with someone who's nickname was "Animal'. My nickname while I was there was "Caveman'I remember the Bar we had and stocked up for every Saturady Night live we had with beer,ice,liquor and steaks. I remember the Hotel California, a couple of USO shows, the great food and the two holdiday dinners there at the mess. Great place to visit and snorkel in and visit but wouldn't want to live there.Met and worked with a great bunch guys but sorry I can;t remember the names but Mike the bagged seems familiar.
I keep checking back from time to time. I may have been called by many "Tony" while I was in the Marshall Islands. Too many things have brought me to contact all the "voluntold" Enewetokians that hailed from "the world". I was there from April 79 through January 80. I couldn't take any more. I'm looking for all Army, Navy (a bass player named Winston) and AF people. Hit me up at: ProdigalsRest@aol.com.
Wendy I need your column on nuclear vets! And, why can't we all have some type of reunion? I really wish we could all come together because that was not the best place to be stationed. However, years later it seems some issues are arising. and, I have no respect for the VA in how they are treating vets with claims, especially those that weren't in the news. Does anyone have a reference date and copy of the 60 mninutes interview?
Hi this is Tom Smithwick also called shark man. I was there from April 79 to Sept 79. Operated one of the LARC 60's. I have plenty of pictures of that place and actually miss the time spent there. No tv, no cell phone, no rush, crystal clear blue water, all the Olympia beer you could drink along with other assorted liquor. I guess I am one of the strange ones. Lost touch with so many people over the years. Sorry to hear about those suffering illness. tsmithwick13@gmail.com
I did love the atoll. However, I was not a fan of how things were covered up. I worked in S-1 on Enewetok and used to log in all the documents medical and otherwise that came in. There were many that were sent there with psychological problems especially from the Navy. Then there were the Army soldiers who came there under a lie...so many were caught up in that. However, I was with 84th Eng in Hawaii (came to garrison from 82d Abn) and it was "established" that I would do a stint on the rock. Well, I actually stayed for 9 months and would have stayed longer if I hadn't gotten in trouble! But, we should all come together. From what I am hearing and seeing there are some health issues arising that the VA is not trying to hear. Hit me up at edavis4@eastern.edu and prodigalsrest@aol.com
Hi ken , my name is Paul Laird ,I was there advance party in 77 , can remember all of those things , I was a D8K DOZER operator , I will check my orders tomorrow to see if your on them , the name sounds familiar !!
Hi Kim I was there advance party in 77 , I have had kidney cancer , bladder cancer 3 times , all kinds of joint ache, scoliosis of my spine and diabetes, how ever in great shape for 56 , I often wonder if there is a relation from being over there .
Hello, I am looking for the guy that used to meet the incoming flights. They called him Wild Willie. I also am looking for a big guy that used to work on Enewetok that was part o 84th Engineer in Schofield named "Tiny". Yes, in reading many of the posts there seems the be some correlation between assignment and modern ailments. Let's keep each other posted. Can we get a reunion going?
Ernest Davis (Tony)
Oh, my bad....I was there from April 79 to Jan 80...I couldn't hold on until April. I was loosing it.
I was there with acb1. I was driving the tug that sunk. Tim Myers is my name. I was there in 78-79. Nissantmyers@gmail.com
David Roach USAF part of the FRST team. We were the AF guys that checked in in/out across the ?Hotline" on Runit. I was stationed on Lojwa also starting Aug. 78 but was sent back stateside at the end of Nov.78 when the new Commander came.
It looks like this is an old blog. is anyone still out there? If so I have much more to say. I just don't want to say it to be lost in an Internet Blackhole
By the way, I can be reached at DRoachRN@aol.com
Seems like everybody went ~~~~~> that way over to the page on Facebook. But, I maintain this to find out more.
See below for a copy of a letter that was sent to a Hawaii Congresswoman and Representative today. Please address this to your state congress person and representative (you have my permission to use the information if desired). From Ken Kasik (PX Manager Lojwa)
Part 1
March 27, 2014
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard
U. S. House of Representatives
Washington DC
RE: Medical Needs of Atomic Veterans of Enewetak Atoll Radiological Cleanup Project
Dear Congresswoman Gabbard:
Attached is the summary of the Enewetak Atoll Radiological Cleanup Project requested by Walt Kaneaku of your staff. I appreciate any assistance you can provide in helping those who worked on this project (1977-1980) obtain compensation or reimbursement for medical costs, injury or other loss associated with cancers and illnesses endured due to radiation contamination, and extreme exposure to sun, heat, humidity and desalination chemicals while living and working on Enewetak Atoll.
The project involved using heavy equipment to scrape radioactive debris from the surface of affected islands and dumping it into a crater on Runit Island, which had been created by an atomic blast. The most contaminated radioactive debris was dumped into the crater and sealed under an 18” concrete dome. The less contaminated radioactive debris was simply scraped off the islands into the lagoon of Enewetak Atoll with no effort to clean or contain it; it was simply dumped into the ocean. This ocean water served as the primary source of drinking and domestic water after desalination. The desalination unit was located on Lojwa Island, which served as the base camp. Lojwa is also where everyone was housed.
*see next posting for part 2
Part 2 (continuation)
I lived and worked on Lojwa Island as a civilian employee of the Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) managing the exchange. Since we were surrounded by radioactive debris, we were subject to radiation exposure 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There was no shade, compounding the radiation exposure with intense daily exposure to sun and heat. We were not made to wear protective gear nor cautioned against sunbathing or swimming in the surrounding ocean.
We wore radiation monitoring badges which recorded our radiation exposure levels. These badges were checked every few months and then recalibrated. The data from individuals’ badges was averaged for reporting purposes. As a result, even though our individual exposure was monitored, the test results for those of us subject to extreme radiation levels were “lost” in the averaging.
I began to develop skin lesions almost immediately upon returning home from my first assignment there (1978) and have undergone innumerable skin cancer treatments. Within a 90-day period last year (2013), I underwent 47 biopsies and 34 surgeries to remove cancerous lesions on my face, arms, legs and back. These surgeries required over 300 stitches to close. Based on my on-going history of skin problems, I am sure there will be more to come.
AAFES recently covered the costs of my latest treatments as part of a legal settlement. However, in the process of pursuing and reaching this settlement, I became aware of many other workers of the Enewetak Atoll Radiological Cleanup Project who developed cancers, tumors and skin lesions, or who died of skin-related conditions, who deserve the attention and care of the U.S. Government. There is even evidence that the offspring of these workers have developed cancers. Unlike me, who chose to accept an assignment on Lojwa Atoll, the servicemen had no choice in their assignments. Yet, their efforts to seek compensation or care for serious health conditions resulting from their non-voluntary job assignments have been ignored.
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act established special funds to help servicemen and civilians who contracted certain cancers due to radiation exposure related to above-ground nuclear weapons testing. Unfortunately, there are restrictions in this Act that do not allow the workers of the Enewetak Atoll Radiation Cleanup Project to collect from its fund(s). Civilians who lived downwind from other nuclear test sites (New Mexico and Nevada) during atomic testing are compensated for developing certain cancers yet servicemen who were forced to live and work, day and night, in direct contact with radioactive debris, are not. This is unjust.
When I learned last year that more cancers were added to the list of eligible conditions for 9-11 first responders (who certainly deserve help, but could not have experienced the intense levels and duration of radiation exposure that our servicemen did on this cleanup project), I felt that justice would not be served until the Enewetak cleanup workers were recognized and helped in a similar way. Since then, I have been trying to raise awareness of their plight with congressmen, legislators, veterans’ affairs officials and the news media. It has been time consuming and discouraging at times, but it is something I feel obligated to do.
I am grateful for your interest in helping on this issue and look forward to hearing some positive news that a bill will be introduced in Congress to help them.
Mahalo,
Ken Kasik
1830 Wilikina Drive #709
Wahiawa HI 96786
kennethkasik@gmail.com
808.622.6185
cc: State Representative Mark Takai
Mike Hall, Office of State Representative Mark Takai
Walt Kaneaku, Office of Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard
This comment has been removed by the author.
Part 3 (continuation)
MEDICAL NEEDS OF ATOMIC VETERANS OF THE
ENEWETAK ATOLL RADIOLOGICAL CLEANUP PROJECT (1977-1980)
Summary of Key Points
The Issue: Servicemen and civilians who worked on this project have developed cancers, tumors, skin lesions and other illnesses due to radiation exposure. Their illnesses are not recognized by the U.S. Government as being associated with their exposure to these extreme conditions. Consequently, there is no mechanism to help them or their families with the health problems they have developed.
The Cleanup Project: Occupied by Japan after WWI, Enewetak Atoll came under the trusteeship of the U.S. after WWII (1947). The U.S. Government established military bases there and began to use the islands of Enewetak Atoll for nuclear testing as the Pacific Proving Ground. The people inhabiting these islands were moved to neighboring Marshallese islands. Nuclear tests were conducted on the “controlled” islands of Enewetak Atoll from 1946 to 1958 (see map). The Enewetak Atoll Radiological Cleanup Project was an attempt to make the islands of Enewetak Atoll safe for re-inhabitation. The cleanup effort failed and the islands remain uninhabitable to this day. However, unlike the atomic veterans of the cleanup, the Marshallese people have been compensated monetarily for their losses and illnesses. Their health care needs will also be covered by the U.S. Government for the remainder of their lives.
Radiation Exposure of Cleanup Workers: During the cleanup project, servicemen and civilians were subject to around-the-clock radiation exposure, intense sun, heat and humidity and exposure to chemicals used in the desalination process. As a result, many survivors have developed cancers, tumors, skin lesions and other illnesses. There is also some evidence that offspring have been affected.
Who Worked on the Cleanup Project: Servicemen from the Army, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard, and civilian contractors with Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) and Holmes & Narvar. Women were prohibited from participating in the cleanup due to potential harm to their reproductive systems.
Part 4 (continuation)
Where: All islands along the northeastern rim of Enewetak Atoll from Enjebi to Runit (see map).
Additional Information: Excerpts from various publications and websites provide some additional disturbing and incriminating facts, including:
• “Tons of concrete and metal debris remained. Conditions that were not readily visible included contaminated soil on many islands of the atoll and contaminated sediments on the bottom of the lagoon.” (Defense Nuclear Agency. The Radiological Cleanup of Enewetak Atoll. 1981.)
• “From 1946 until 1958, military scientists tested 67 nuclear devices with the equivalent explosive yield of 1.6 Hiroshima bombs per day for those twelve years. The testing program exposed the people of the Marshall Islands to radioactive fallout and contaminated nearby atolls, rendering them uninhabitable.” (Harvard Law Students Advocates for Human Rights. "Keeping the Promise – An Evaluation of Continuing U.S. Obligations Arising Out of the U.S. Nuclear Testing program in the Marshall Islands." April 2006.)
• "In 1954, the U.S., in nuclear arms race with the USSR, tested a hydrogen bomb that alone was equal in megatonnage to 1,000 Hiroshima bombs." (MidWeek. "Researching Nuclear Exposure." 12/12/12.)
• “(Operation Ivy at Pacific Proving Ground) inaugurated the thermonuclear age with the first 'true' thermonuclear test (code name Mike), which was considerably more powerful than all the high explosives used in two World Wars put together. Ivy also tested the highest yield pure fission weapon ever exploded." (http://nuclearweaponarchive.org/Usa/Tests/Ivy.html)
• “Veterans Administration now identifies Enewetak Atoll clean-up duty as ‘Atomic Veterans.’” (http://www.voy.com/403/414.html)
• Lojwa Animals – blog and chats of atomic veterans who worked on Enewetak Cleanup Project and have suffered various illnesses due to radiation contamination. (logjwaanimals.blogspot.com)
• National Association of Atomic Veterans (http://www.naav.com/)
• Enewetak-Trash Can of the Pacific - website showing photos of Enewetak Atoll islands and Runit dome. (http://www.utaot.com/2013/01/25/the-nuclear-trash-can-of-the-pacific-on-enewetak-atoll/)
Still fighting with the VA. I truly despise the "what are you crying for" attitude. If you all don't have this on your "records" you will NOT get treatment needed and deserved. In addition in order to GET it on your records, you must first file a claim that seems to go in circles. Thus far, I have at least gotten out of the compound and ended up in Jackson, MS where I have to send additional records. Thus far I have problems that the VA is trying seriouslly to link other places. But, I am only in my 50s and this stuff ain't happening to others.
Hi guys I'm Jim Patterson lived on Lojwa and work on Runit June 79 to November 79. Sorry to hear so many are not doing well. It does however explain to me why have probably had some of the wierd illnesses that I have had. Seems like everytime I get an illness it is something very rare or abnormal. Currently had a nodule in my left lung that was found a year ago. Non cancerous so far. Just joined NAAV. Hopefully one of theses days soon we will get the government recognition that we deserve more. I am currently in the process of trying to get reclassified by the VA. As some of you have said it just seems like things keep going in circles. Time will tell. I do hope to continue to hear from people via this blog and aslo hope many others will find it and post.
Almost forgot. My email address is: jimp3rd@gmail.com
Aloha guys...this resolution has past its first hearing... one more to go in the senate, than off to Washington DC
Ken Kasik
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TWENTY-SEVENTH LEGISLATURE, 2014
STATE OF HAWAII
HOUSE CONCURRENT
RESOLUTION
URGING CONGRESS AND THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS
AFFAIRS TO INCLUDE WITHIN THE DEFINITION OF “ATOMIC
VETERANS” THE VETERANS INVOLVED IN THE CLEANUP OF THE
UNITED STATES NUCLEAR TEST SITE ON LOJWA ISLAND FROM 1977
TO 1980 MAKING THEM ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE COMPENSATION AND
HEALTH CARE BENEFITS FROM THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT.
1 WHEREAS, from 1977 through 1980, members of the United
2 States Armed Forces participated in a radiation cleanup of the
3 United States nuclear test site in the Marshall Islands; and
4
5 WHEREAS, service members involved in the Enewetak Atoll
6 Atomic Debris Cleanup moved radioactive fallout and debris from
7 the surface of the islands of Enewetak Atoll to a 370-foot
8 diameter concrete containment structure on Runit Island and also
9 created a number of artificial reefs in the lagoon; and
10
11 WHEREAS, following the radiation cleanup, the Marshallese
12 inhabitants returned to their homeland and the service members
13 were presented with Humanitarian Medals by the United States
14 government in recognition of their efforts; and
15
16 WHEREAS, while having served their country, these surviving
17 and decorated veterans now suffer from health problems related
18 to radiation exposure, but are not eligible for certain
19 compensation and health care benefits from the United States
20 government; and
21
22 WHEREAS, Congress has not created any presumptions for
23 veterans or civilians based on residual contamination from
24 nuclear tests at Enewetak Atoll; and
25
26 WHEREAS, while it is the position of the United States
27 Department of Justice that medical funds be made available to
28 those who participated in radiation-risk activities during
HCR HMS 2014-2417
~
H.C.R. NO. 247
1 active service, Congress has not included cleanup veterans in
2 the definition of “Atomic Veteran”, an omission that has denied
3 these decorated veterans from receiving certain compensation and
4 health care benefits from the federal government; and
5
6 WHEREAS, these cleanup veterans are not included in the
7 definition of an “Atomic Veteran”, which is defined as a veteran
8 who, as part of his or her military service, participated in an
9 above-ground nuclear test from 1945—1962, or served in the
10 United States military occupation forces in or around Hiroshima
11 or Nagasaki before 1946; or was held as a prisoner of war in or
12 near Hiroshima or Nagasaki and was subjected to certain
13 conditions; and
14
15 WHEREAS, these cleanup veterans, specifically those
16 veterans who participated in radiation-risk activities during
17 active service and were housed at Lojwa Island in the northern
18 half of the Enewetak Atoll, should be included in the United
19 States Department of Veterans Affairs’ definition of an “Atomic
20 Veteran” making them eligible for benefits; now, therefore,
21
22 BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the
23 Twenty-seventh Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular
24 Session of 2014, the Senate concurring, that Congress and the
25 United States Department of Veterans Affairs are urged to
26 include within the definition of “Atomic Veteran” the veterans
27 involved in the cleanup of the United States nuclear test site
28 on Lojwa Island from 1977 to 1980 making them eligible to
29 receive compensation and health care benefits from the United
30 States government; and
31
32 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this
33 Concurrent Resolution be transmitted to the President of the
34 United States, Majority Leader of the United States Senate,
35 Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Secretary
36 of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and
37 Hawaii’s Congressional delegation.
OFFERED BY:
HCR HMS 2014-2417 ~
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Here's the results from the resolution that past here in Hawaii..Good luck
http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=247&year=2014
I have a black and white film on YouTube of the 1977 dec typhoon that almost flooded the island look for ken kasik you tube
Ken Kasik
Kenny,
Thats awesome news. There is a pretty goof size group of us on Favebook that are fighting the same fight. We saw and published this on our group site today. We would like you to join us. The name of the group is: Enewetak Atoll Clean-up Project Vets. It is a closed group for us only. I hope you will join. There is strength in numbers brother.
Sorry, typed that last comment with my phone. Don't seem to be able to type 2 words in a row correctly with that phone. To recap it is a Facebook Closed Group: Enewetak Atoll Clean-up Project Vets. Hope you join us.
Ernest, I was there from April 79 to Sept 79. Tom Smithwick, also known as shark man. Operated a larc. I have no health issues from there. Had a section of my colon taken out from diverticulitis but hard to blame that on the islands.
Hey Kenny,
I have been unable to follow the link you posted regarding the VA's recognition of Enewetak Veterans. To date, it is my understanding the VA does NOT recognize nor treat Veterans exposed to Ionizing Radiation as a result of exposure during the clean-up of Enewetak. This, as you are well aware, we continue the fight for recognition by the Veterans Administration and the United States Government as a whole.
Your efforts have been instrumental in leading the fight for recognition from your home state of Hawaii. From one Lojwa Animal to another,
Thank you,
David
I can't,sorry...my time is almost up,and Aloha...please understand...RADIATION KILLS...YOU ALL WILL SEE MY FINDINGS SOON...GOD BLESS...A-LO-JA-WA...FROM A CIVILIAN THAT UNDERSTANDS ..IM ONE OF THE LOJWA ANIMALS THAT GAVE EVERYTHING FOR US TO BE ACKNOWLEDGE AND COMPENSATED FOR WHAT OUR GOVERNMENT DID NOT ONLY TO US,BUT THE WORLD...TOO LATE....IM TRUELY SORRY I CANT HELP..I ONLY PRAY AND HOPE FOR A BETTER WORLD BEYOUND.....ALOHA..KEN KASIK...LOJWA P.X.MANAGER...I HAD A BLAST...
Peace be with you Ken.
I was Rico, from Lojwa from 77 to78. I remember the Hotel California hutt. Was there during the storm. I was in the hutt with a painting in the door as Animal holding a bottle of wine. I worked in the big laundry cleaning blankets together with contaminatet radiattion suits (orders). Saad but true. Got plenty of fhotos from Lojwa. There was a Test and registration at the V.A. hospitals for Radiation Soldiers i 2004, you got to register at Especial Progams office (agent orange, Gulf syndrome, etc.
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