The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. will shine with orange candlelight Monday to “bring light’ to the lingering effects that Agent Orange has on veterans of the conflict and their families.
Nearly 3 million service members served in Vietnam and most returned home , the VVMF said on its website.
“Since then, thousands of Vietnam veterans have fought illnesses related to Agent Orange exposure,” the post reads. “The deadly toxin has impacted the lives of thousands of veterans and their families but is largely unknown to most Americans.”
First used on Aug. 10. 1961, the toxic herbicide is blamed for causing the death of numerous Vietnam veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs currently provides coverage for 14 illnesses related to Agent Orange.
Lawmakers to push VA to expand benefits for Agent Orange-linked illnesses in defense bill
Veterans who blame their illnesses on exposure to Agent Orange have battled to receive their VA benefits for years.
I’m at their mercy: Decades later, Agent Orange veterans still waiting on VA to decide their claims
You can leave a message of support for those who have been impacted by Agent Orange here.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com
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