COMMEMORATING AGENT ORANGE AWARENESS DAY & VIETNAM VETS


By akirschbaum
Agent orange awareness day

There are a lot of things that happened during the Vietnam War; many lives have been sacrificed, and until now, some of the prisoners of war have not yet been found. One of the most notable events that happened in that country is Agent Orange, which was also first used in Vietnam. It was 50 years ago, on August 10, 1961, when the chemical was used. Some people were exposed to it and are still suffering today. This deadly toxin has affected thousands of Veterans and their families. So, this Agent Orange Awareness Day, let us commemorate them.

What Is Agent Orange?

This harmful chemical is a herbicide that was used by the U.S. military forces in Vietnam. It serves a dual purpose as the chemical can defoliate forest areas that could have be a hideout of the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces. It also has the power to destroy crops that enemies might eat. One example of its effects is the leaves of plants falling off. However, it was discontinued in the 70s due to its harmful effects.

A Brief History of Agent Orange

Former President John F. Kennedy originally approved the use of the chemical; with his authorization, Air Force planes began to disburse Agent Orange in the Southern part of Vietnam as part of Operation Trail Dust. Agent Orange was used not only once but by over half of the Air Force's flying missions. Also, it was distributed on the ground by trucks, boats, and even people carrying the compound in their backpacks. That chemical that spread all over Southern Vietnam contains a harmful substance known as dioxin. Almost 400 pounds of it were used during its operation. This compound is also responsible for congenital disabilities and cancer.

What Is the Purpose of Agent Orange Awareness Day?

For the record, there are around three million service members who served in Vietnam, most of whom have returned home, but the effects of the chemicals are still there. Thousands of Vietnamese Vets have also fought illnesses related to Agent Orange exposure. With this, the main goal of Agent Orange Awareness Day is to bring light to those who have been affected by the toxic chemical.To help with the long-term results of Agent Orange, the Department of Veterans Affairs has a registry to help the Veterans and their families receive treatment. Exposed individuals can also receive a free examination.

How to Commemorate Agent Orange Awareness Day

This is usually every August 10th. However, it is not a federal holiday, and main offices remain open. But you can still celebrate it as this day is vital to those affected by the compound. It also serves as a reminder not to use it again, as its effects can be lethal. During Agent Orange Awareness Day, you can learn more about its harmful effects via researching, visiting the Vietnam Memorial wall in Washington D.C., lighting a candle in honor of those who have died, attending a memorial ceremony, and supporting a military or Veterans organization. There are several organizations that promote this observance namely Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Gold Star Wives, and more. Others will also have their own private way of commemorating Agent Orange Day.You can also check with your local government web pages, state government official sites, or social media for news and programs.

The Long-Term Effects of Agent Orange

The chemicals of Agents Orange have caused multiple diseases. There are 14 diseases in association with it, but over time, researchers found several additional conditions, including:

  • Porphyria
  • Parkinsonism
  • Lung cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • AL amyloidosis
  • Bladder cancer
  • B-cell leukemia
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Multiple myeloma
  • Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Soft tissue sarcoma
  • Ischemic heart disease
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Chloracne or acneform disease
  • Severe congenital disabilities, abnormal fetal development, or miscarriage

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