Atomic Veterans Eligible for VA Register

Week of January 08, 2007

Between 1945 and 1963, more than 382,000 civilian and military personnel were exposed to atmospheric and underwater atomic tests. Nearly three-quarters of veterans exposed to the tests have since died, many from cancers related to the tests, according to the National Association of Atomic Veterans. Because the tests were classified as top secret, no documentation of this service was entered in these veterans' service or medical records. Veterans exposed to these atomic tests can sign up with the Veterans Administration's Ionizing Radiation Register, should additional benefits be granted. For more information, visit the National Association of Atomic Veterans website.