Decades of Toxic Risks
A shocking revelation has emerged regarding the hazardous working conditions faced by Air Force nuclear missile crews since the 1960s. Documents obtained by The Associated Press through Freedom of Information Act requests reveal a history of toxic risks, including asbestos readings 50 times higher than safety standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. The underground capsules and silos, where these crews worked, were plagued with dark liquid pools, lack of fresh air, and computer displays that emitted a fishy-smelling gel. Now, many of these service members have developed cancer.
Air Force’s Misrepresentation
Contrary to the reality documented in the obtained records, Air Force leadership assured nuclear missile crews that the workplace was free of health hazards. Reports from the early 2000s claimed that illnesses occurred by chance alone, dismissing the concerns of service members who were being diagnosed with cancer. This misrepresentation has raised serious doubts about the Air Force’s transparency and accountability.
The Current Review and Testing
In response to the growing number of cancer diagnoses among current and former missile officers, the Air Force has initiated a thorough review of its facilities. Thousands of air, water, soil, and surface samples have been tested for toxins in all the locations where these service members worked. Several samples have already been found to contain unsafe levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a known carcinogen. More data is expected in early 2024, and the Air Force is working on an official count of how many missile community service members have cancer.
Concerns and Precautions
While some current missileers appreciate the Air Force’s efforts to uncover toxins and address the issue, others worry that the dangers will once again be downplayed. Missileers continue to take precautions, such as changing into “capsule clothes” and promptly laundering them after each shift due to the metallic smell. The news of the toxic risks has prompted missileers to be more diligent about medical checkups and embrace early detection.
Calls for Investigation
Given the alarming test results and the Air Force’s initial failure to disclose critical contamination levels, former missile facility supervisor Steven Mayne and former missileers Jackie Perdue and Monte Watts have called for an investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and senators from North Dakota and Montana. Perdue, who served as a nuclear missile combat crew commander, believes health and safety standards were violated and should be thoroughly examined.
A Legacy of Hazardous Conditions
The obtained documents reveal a history of hazardous conditions, including high levels of asbestos and multiple spills of PCBs. The capsules and silos were often filled with toxic substances, endangering the health of the missileers. Even after reports of health risks, little was done to address the problems. Asbestos, leaks, and poor air quality persisted, exposing missileers to potential harm.
The Road Ahead
Although the current review cannot fully determine past exposures, it aims to establish a health profile that will assist missileers in applying for veterans benefits. The Air Force plans to decommission the old capsules and build new, modern control centers that meet current environmental health standards. However, until then, it is crucial for the Air Force to maintain complete transparency with its missileers, ensuring that their health and safety are prioritized.
The tragic stories of those like Doreen Jenness, whose husband, Jason Jenness, succumbed to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma at a young age, emphasize the urgent need for action. The Air Force’s failure to acknowledge the risks earlier has left a trail of devastation, and it is now the responsibility of the military and relevant authorities to rectify their mistakes and protect the lives of those serving their country.
