By Bob Steiner

Secretary of Veteran’s affairs, Eric Shinseki,  recently announced that he has decided  to establish  a service-connection for Vietnam veterans who have contracted B cell leukemia, such as hairy cell leukemia; Parkinson’s disease; and ischerr heart disease. This action was based upon an independent study by the Institute of Medicine showing an association with exposure to Agent Orange.  Vietnam Veterans with these diseases may be eligible for disability compensation and health care benefits.

Agent Orange is the name given to a type of herbicide used in Vietnam from 1961 to 1971.  Using Air Force cargo airplanes, the U.S. military  sprayed millions of gallons of the chemical  to remove foliage and leaves from trees that provided cover to enemy forces.  During the course of combat operations, many Vietnam era veterans were exposed to the herbicide.

The Veteran’s secretary is one of the few Obama appointees who actually served in the military. Attaining the rank of of four star general,  he served under the Bush administration as the Army Chief of Staff until he criticized President Bush’s conduct of the war in Afghanistan. He retired  from active duty last year. He was awarded two purple hearts for wounds received during his service in Vietnam.

If you are a Vietnam veteran, or if you know a Vietnam veteran who might have been exposed to Agent Orange and is suffering from one of the diseases listed, you may  wish to contact the regional Veteran’s Administration office at 500 Gold Avenue Southwest in Albuquerque.  For general information on claims and benefits you can also call 800-442-4551

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