“Honoring Our Nations Veteran’s: As Cancer Stricken Soldiers Go Ignored”

Sister Soldier: A Chronicle of Life After Iraq

By R. B. STUART

Post XXII

In the Vietnam war the U. S. Military sprayed the herbicide created by Dow Chemical, Agent Orange (also Purple, Green, Pink, White and Blue) for the improvement of road and waterway visibility and clearing camp perimeters of weeds. The military authorized its use assuring the deployed soldiers it was harmless. But reports circulated in 1964 of increased miscarriages, stillbirths and birth defects among exposed Vietnamese women and animals. In essence performing genocide on the East Asian population. By sabotaging the reproduction system of the would-be mothers---of future Red Soldiers. With 36 forms of Cancer associated to the “approved” chemical, and a 30-year incubation period---it would continue to do the U. S. Military’s handy work long after the end of the war.

Our use of carcinogenic chemicals and a cozyness with Big Pharma seems to fester during war time, as a more potent cocktail with severe adverse reactions is introduced with each war. In 1990 soldiers deployed for the Persian Gulf - Desert Storm war under Bush Senior's regime, the soldiers witnessed piles of dead animals in the desert. They were stacked into decomposing mounds five months prior to the troops arrival.

The animals weren't considered a direct threat since the soldiers weren't camped directly beside them. But the potential for breeding grounds of diseases remained. To contain the existing problem military personnel thoroughly sprayed the decaying animals with the insecticides; methyl carbamate and “Baygon” (a propxur produced by Bayer, the aspirin makers), “Sevin” (a carbaryl produced by Aventis, a French company and smallpox vaccine maker that donated close to $2 million to the Bush camp in 2000), and “Lannate” (a methomyl produced by the chemical making machine DuPont). All are listed as poisons. Our military has already chosen to die for their country---but does that include by the hand of Big Pharma too?

From their deployment, over the past twenty years Gulf War Veterans have faced an endless battle with the VA for their array of chronic health issues. Only to be pacified with an all-inclusive watered-down diagnosis of Gulf War Illness, and mediocre benefits for their exposure.

Our current Operation Iraqi Freedom [OIF] Veterans have since 2003, encountered a gamut of toxins in theatre; from the carcinogenic smoke of Burn Pits that includes feces from port-a-potty’s, to radiological exposure from inhalation or ingestion of depleted Uranium dust from spent munitions, both of which has infiltrated their camp environment, as well as the Iraqi civilians, via air, soil and water.

Without the DoD willingly coming forward with their cancer diagnoses amongst deployed soldiers, and refuting cancer as a war wound----medical doctors at the VA and other medical institutions are meeting challenges they’ve never seen before. As a percentage of soldiers are being diagnosed with rare, aggressive cancers post-deployment 4 – 36 months---that don’t fit the criteria of the illness.

Wyoming native, Cody Feeback [pictured above] joined the United States Marine Corps in 2002 at 18. The teen whose penchant for hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his friends and family---would take second place to the Military service in which he became a devotee. “I loved the Marine Corps the friendships are like none other…it is a wonderful bond you experience with your fellow Marines,” explained SGT. Feeback whose home base from 2002 to 2005 was Camp Lejeune, N.C.

In February 2003 the 19 year-old deployed from Camp Lejeune in good health for his first tour in Kuwait, Iraq. He spent the next five months in northern Kuwait at Camp Coyote where as a Combat Engineer was in charge of Convoy Security. Like most soldiers, SGT. Feeback experienced vomiting and diarrhea in theatre, but like most soldiers deployed since 2003, was told it was normal. “I didn’t want my family to worry any more than they already were,” so SGT. Feeback never mentioned it. [on a night convoy below]


In the DoD’s own December 20, 2001 Field Manual, “Treatment of Nuclear and Radiological Causalities.” Chapter Three, page 13 outlines the radiological exposure dosages from 0 – 5 cGy being nominal and acceptable for military personnel during peacetime. But during war, if the dosages are from 75 – 300 cGy, onset in 6 hours the symptoms are headache and nausea at the low end of cGy, vomiting for the high range of cGy with an onset of 2 – 3 hours. The low range of duration is 12 hours upward to 3 – 4 days.

When diarrhea is included to the aforementioned symptoms, the cGy dosage ranges from 300 – 530. The onset of diarrhea within 2 – 6 hours with a duration of 2 – 3 weeks. There is a minimal 24-hour window after exposure to Uranium to order a urine or fecal bioassay. If ordered, those results are kept confidentially in the soldiers RER records [Radiation Exposure Records].

On Chapter Five, section I, Low Level Radiation, 5-2, B, Exposure Guidance page 5 – 1 and 5 – 2, “The risks associated with radiation exposure within the range of 5 – 75 cGy are confined primarily to the risk of increased incidence of malignant diseases, including solid tumors and leukemia.” So from their own admission, the U. S. Military is fully aware of radiation exposure of deployed troops resulting in a Cancer diagnoses, but maintain ignorance when a soldier is actually diagnosed post deployment.

SGT. Feeback’s tour ended July 2003 and returned to Camp Lejeune. He reconnected with his parents and three siblings, then in 2005 he transferred to Camp Pendleton, California. By that September he received orders to re-deploy. His second tour sent him to Fallujah, Iraq where over the next seven months he made a home at Camp Fallujah. Unaware that local doctors were recording high-rates of abnormal birth defects in Fallujah civilians.


Study Finds Iraq Littered with High Levels of Nuclear and Dioxin Contamination

The Guardian UK
--Jan. 22, 2010

• Greater rates of cancer and birth defects near
sites
• Depleted uranium among poisons revealed in report

More than 40 sites across Iraq are contaminated with high levels or radiation and dioxins, with three decades of war and neglect having left environmental ruin in large parts of the country, an official Iraqi study has found.

Areas in and near Iraq's largest towns and cities, including Najaf, Basra and Falluja, account for around 25% of the contaminated sites, which appear to coincide with communities that have seen increased rates of cancer and birth defects over the past five years. The joint study by the environment, health and science ministries found that scrap metal yards in and around Baghdad and Basra contain high levels of ionizing radiation, which is thought to be a legacy of depleted uranium used in munitions during the first Gulf war and since the 2003 invasion.

So when SGT. Feeback’s tour ended in March 2006 he returned to Camp Pendleton where he awaited the completion of his stint in the USMC. And by September 21, 2006 SGT. Feeback was honorably discharged. The only thing the 23 year-old had on his mind was living a comfortable and fun life with his family, so he moved back home to Wyoming. The next two years he worked as an equipment operator until a position opened at the local VA, in their warehouse shipping and receiving. Within a month he met Roxan, and 16 months later, in March 2010 they were engaged, and prepared for a September wedding.

Then without warning in July 2010 he developed Flu-like symptoms that sent him to the Sheridan VA Medical Center. “I complained of abdominal and lower back pain, the Doctor assumed it was appendicitis and ordered a urinalysis and CT scan,” the 27 year-old informed. “But when the Doctor read the CT scan they saw a mass on the right kidney.”

Immediately they medEvac him to the Denver VA for a biopsy. “The Doctors were certain after the biopsy it was Wilms Tumor, but were perplexed since it is a pediatric kidney cancer usually found in three to six year-old children.” The following day when the urine results came back he was diagnosed with Stage III.

“At first my response was disbelief and fear for my family,” he admitted. “I don’t have any idea if I was exposed to burn pits or had depleted Uranium exposure. Even so, I don’t blame anybody for this sickness…I just don’t like putting my family through all this stress.”

Within a month his right kidney was removed. “I underwent eleven rounds of radiation and am currently going through 24 weeks of chemotherapy,” SGT. Feeback informed. “I’ve had good care at the VA, and have had a lot of support with visitors and phone calls.” [Marine Feeback below]


On September 4, 2010, while undergoing treatments, SGT. Feeback married Roxan, and after serving 4 years and 8 months in the USMC he conveyed, “I was very proud to serve my country and I would do it again.”

The dedication a majority of soldiers have for the military is palpable. And no matter what they were exposed to during deployments, the selfless, courageous men and women serve with honor and devotion never blaming….even at their own peril. And if the U. S. Military subjugates the evidence of cancer stricken soldiers in attempts to hide the environmental genocide in Iraq….then its higher ranking officials will find themselves marred in the history books, as a disloyal superpower that thoughtlessly devoured its own.

In June 2010, Doug Rokke, Ph.D. retired, U.S. Army Major commented on the predicament Operation Iraqi Freedom [OIF] Veterans and civilians of war torn countries are subjected to. “We’ve ignored what we have done to the residents of the nations. We [the U.S. Military] has invaded without justification and then trashed their country. I have come to the realization that based on history we in the military bought the notion ‘to protect,’ but who are we protecting, and from whom?”

“We in the military are simply the extension of power and greed, reality not myth. And the abandonment of our Veteran’s is because of the casualty numbers, that we ourselves are responsible.”

“I am constantly bombarded by telephone, E-mail, knocks at my door, and stopped wherever I go. Every day more Veterans or their families seek help, and suffice to say it’s becoming worse---while we continue to set-up more of the same,” concluded the disabled Veteran Doug Rokke.

UN Health Agency, Iraq Studying Birth Defects

AFP Agence France-Presse
--Oct. 5, 2010

GENEVA (AFP) – The UN Health Agency, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Iraqi authorities are carrying out a survey of birth defects in Iraq following media reports of abnormal patterns in Fallujah, a WHO spokeswoman said.

“An investigation has begun in six governorates (administrative region) of Iraq into these reports of congenital defects,” WHO spokeswoman Fadela Chaib told journalists.

The BBC reported in March 2010 that large and growing numbers of birth defects were observed by doctors in Fallujah, a former insurgent stronghold west of Baghdad that was at the heart of some of the fiercest fighting with US forces.

Chaib said the scientific “pilot assessment” by “the Iraqi government with the help of the... WHO” began in July and would take about 18 months to complete.

The study covers Sulemaniah, Diyala, Baghdad, Dhi-Qar, Basra and Anbar province, which includes Fallujah.

It will lay out “the magnitude, distribution and trends of Congenital Birth Defects” in Iraq and establish a basis for comparison with today as well as between different parts of the country, according to the UN health agency.

Reports of health abnormalities among civilians in Iraq or soldiers who served there have sparked claims of links with special weaponry allegedly used during successive wars, including armour-busting depleted Uranium shells.

UN First Committee Sends Clear Message to Depleted Uranium Users Over Transparency

International Coalition To Ban Uranium Weapons, U.K.
--Oct. 29, 2010

The United Nations First Committee has voted, by an overwhelming margin, for state users of depleted Uranium weapons to release data on where the weapons have been used to governments of states affected by their use.

136 states voted in favor of a resolution calling on state users of depleted Uranium weapons to release quantitative and geographical data to the governments of affected states. The resolution will now go forward to the United Nations General Assembly for a second vote at the end of November 2010.

Although UN resolutions are non-binding, they are a useful means of focusing attention on key issues. In this case the ongoing failure of the US to release data on its use of depleted Uranium in Iraq and concerns over the use of the weapons in other conflicts, such as the interventions in Somalia in the mid-1990s.

The resolution was opposed by only four states - the US, UK, France and Israel. These four also voted against previous resolutions accepting that DU has the potential to damage human health (2007) and calling for more research in
affected states (2008).

CNN Audit: Military Using Potentially Harmful Methods of Burning Trash

By Adam Levine, CNN
--Oct. 15, 2010

Military bases in Iraq and Afghanistan continue to use waste methods that expose troops to potentially toxic emissions without fully understanding the effects, according to a new government audit obtained by CNN.

Between September 2009 and October 2010, investigators from the Government Accountability Office visited four bases in Iraq and reviewed planning documents on waste disposal for bases in Afghanistan. None of the Iraq bases visited were in compliance with military regulations. All four burned plastic--which generates harmful emissions--despite regulations against doing so.

The emissions have been the source of controversy as troops have complained about a host of problems, from cancerous tumors to respiratory issues, blaming exposure to burn pits. Military officials have denied any consequential effects on most troops.

Prior to an initial outcry about the pits more two years ago, the largest base in Iraq -- Balad Air Base -- was burning everything from hazardous and medical waste to plastics, using jet fuel as accelerant, according to military documents. The smoke poured over the living quarters and the base hospital, exposing thousands of troops to the emissions.

The U.S. military generates about 10 pounds of non-hazardous waste per service member each day and "may consist of plastic, Styrofoam, and food from dining facilities; discarded electronics; shipping materials such as wooden pallets and plastic wrap; appliances; and other items such as mattresses, clothing, tires, metal containers, and furniture," the report says.

According to the report, there were 221 burn pits in Afghanistan by August and more are anticipated. Only 21 remained in Iraq and, like the troop levels there, the numbers are expected to decrease. The burn pits are operated by either the military or contractors.

While the pits have been in use since the beginning of each war, regulations and guidance were only issued in 2009 -- eight years into the Afghanistan conflict and six years after the start of the war in Iraq.

The military's attitude about the impact of the burn pits has shifted. When complaints initially arose in 2008 military officials denied there was any hazard to troops. Last year the Pentagon changed that position, declaring long-term effects for troops who had pre-existing conditions was foreseeable.

A GAO analysis of the data from the samples collected found matter named on the CENTCOM list of potentially harmful substances. Investigators found that the samples which exceeded the levels considered safe if exposed for a year mostly contained fine particles. Fine particles can embed in the lung tissue, and of particular concern is when there is prolonged exposure.

Sen. Russ Feingold, D-Wisconsin, who has been vocal in his concern about troops' exposure to burn pits, urged the Pentagon to restrict the use of the pits in Afghanistan. “I am deeply troubled to learn that the Defense Department has not taken simple steps, such as segregating plastics, to ensure that our troops are not exposed to harmful emissions,” Feingold said in a statement.

The acting commander of Central Command, Lt. Gen. John Allen, wrote a letter to Feingold in July saying the military is trying to eliminate the use of burn pits at bases that are active for 90 days or more and occupied by 100 personnel or more. In Iraq, Allen anticipates there will be no burn pits by December of this year. Afghanistan is more challenging, but the military is in the process of procuring “almost 200 incinerators,” he said in the letter, obtained by CNN.

Radiation, DU & Burn Pits--Iraq’s Cancer: “America’s Gift That Keeps Giving”

IMAGE above: Japanese campaigners investigate a DU contaminated tank graveyard in Iraq, 2002. Credit: Naomi Toyoda

Sister Soldier: A Chronicle of Life After Iraq
By R. B. STUART
Post XXI



Memorial Day makes us remember that no matter how many wars, generations and decades go by---we as a human race never seem to learn. The exploitation of our military is a cruel punishment our enemies don't even deserve. What “we” do to our own with radioactive weapons, and the catastrophe of environmental carcinogens left behind---makes water boarding look like shooting a beer keg at a water park.

Most heart wrenching is the disservice by the DoD for those brave and healthy men and women who join the ranks of service to protect us. To be careless with their courageous souls is incomprehensible, but that’s exactly what the U. S. does generation after generation. As they string the Veteran’s together with empty medals from Korea, to Vietnam, to the Gulf War and now Iraq and Afghanistan. Their Purple Hearts, missing limbs, PTSD and aggressive rare cancers are less about the casualties of war, and more about the severity of illnesses that emerge with each generation of deployed military.

The DoD drapes their denial with the American flag---while hiding beneath their crooked smile---vats of mustard gas, Agent Orange and depleted Uranium masked in red, white and blue lies. It is unpatriotic to question their motives, but it is also inhumane to willingly contaminate and kill your own. As this new chapter of Iraq war crimes lends itself to the horrors of science fiction….it is another black mark upon our future.

After seven years, the VA Director of Compensation and Pension Service, Bradley G. Mayes sent a training letter on April 26, 2010 to all VA Regional Offices, “Environmental Hazards in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Military Installations.” Informing regional employees on specific environmental hazard incidents that present health risks to service members and Veterans. And provide guidance on handling claims for disabilities potentially resulting from exposure to environmental hazards while on active duty. As well as “fact sheets” for VA examiners when conducting Compensation and Pension (C&P) examinations associated with such exposure.

Mayes outlined; Service members can be exposed to environmental hazards in the course of their military duties, which may result in adverse health effects. Numerous environmental hazards in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other military installations that could potentially present health risks to service members and Veterans have been identified. The hazards discussed in this training letter are as follows: (1) Large burn pits throughout Iraq, Afghanistan, and Djibouti on the Horn of Africa; (2) ”particulate matter” in Iraq and Afghanistan; (3) a large sulfur fire at Mishraq State Sulfur Mine near Mosul, Iraq; (4) hexavalent chromium exposure at the Qarmat Ali Water Treatment Plant in Basrah, Iraq; (5) contaminated drinking water at Camp LeJeune, North Carolina; and (6) pollutants from a waste incinerator near the Naval Air Facility (NAF) at Atsugi, Japan. And stressed, “It is imperative that regional office personnel are aware of these environmental health hazards and are well-trained to handle disability claims from Veterans based on exposure to them.”

In May 2006 the VA sent the letter below to, 25-year-old Army Specialist Travis Bromfield admitting to his exposure while deployed in Iraq. By September 2005 seven months into his year tour, he was diagnosed with a terminal, stage IV Poorly Differentiated Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of unknown primary, of the liver, bones, lungs, kidneys, brain and spine. Spc. Bromfield was given a two-month life expectancy, this particular cancer only occurs in patients age 55 or older. He died February 20, 2007. For him and his family, the information about the hazardous environment in Iraq was withheld, and he was unable to protect himself while deployed. But how many more have to die needlessly while the U. S. war machine burns through the Middle East?

Two international workshops/conferences on Depleted Uranium were held earlier this month at the United Nations by the International Coalition to Ban Uranium Weapons . ICBUW’s focus has been to inform and advise policy makers and governments on the threat to human health and the environment of uranium weapons. ICBUW was formed in 2003 in Berlaar, Belgium and is based in Manchester UK.

They campaign for a ban on the use of uranium in all conventional weapons and weapon systems and for monitoring, health care, compensation and environmental remediation for communities affected by their use.

ICBUW represents more than 120 NGOs worldwide and seeks to do for uranium weapons what the International Coalition to Ban Landmines and Cluster Munition Coalition did for those types of weapons, in essence to develop a uranium weapons treaty that would prohibit the use of uranium in all conventional, i.e. non-nuclear, weapons. research projects.

An ICBUW spokesperson said: “We warmly welcomed the interest in uranium weapons shown by activists from the US and elsewhere in the world during the recent civil society NPT UN conference. Global opinion is rapidly turning against uranium weapons - something clearly seen by the UN resolutions on the issue, where 141 states accepted that uranium weapons have the potential to harm human and environmental health. In 2008, UN member states called for more research on the issue yet the US's refusal to release the firing coordinates from 1991 and 2003 is hampering this work and leading to unnecessary civilian exposures. ICBUW calls on the US government to urgently release this data to the UN and NGOs.”

Their world map of DU User Nations shows in red confirmed, grey suspected use.

The map above reflects the murky world of arms industry exports and the proliferation of DU weapons around the world.

An overview of ICBUW’s impressive timeline in the last two years highlights
the progress of their campaign:

March 2010
UK MPs accuse US military of human rights atrocity over use of toxic munitions in Fallujah.
Irish depleted uranium ban bill receives warm reception.

February 2010
Costa Rica bans production of depleted uranium weapons in their free trade zones.

January 2010
US set to discontinue depleted uranium in medium calibre ammunition.

November 2009
Netherlands Parliament approves motion for a moratorium on depleted uranium weapons.
Kiwi MP submits Members Bill calling for depleted uranium ban.
University of Vermont divests from cluster munition and depleted uranium manufacturers.

September 2009
Latin America Parliament calls for a moratorium on uranium weapons.
British jury rules that DU was likely cause of dead Gulf Veteran's colon cancer.

July 2009
The Belgian parliament votes unanimously to ban depleted uranium weapon investments.
German Bundeswehr manual challenges US and UK denials over depleted uranium in Afghanistan.

June 2009
UK Uranium Weapons Network launched as Belgium becomes first country to ban
depleted uranium weapons.

May 2009
The First International Cancer Conference held in Basrah, Iraq due to the alarming increase of cancer reports.
DU exhibition opens at Berlin's Anti-War Museum .

April 2009
Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs agrees to fund ICBUW research projects.
Belgian Senate approves prohibition on financing of depleted uranium weapons.

March 2009
Costa Rica to ban depleted uranium weapons.

February 2009
UK Co-operative Bank ceases all investment in DU weapon manufacturers.

January 2009
Italy approves a 30 Million Euro for DU Compensation Package for Veterans’.

December 2008
UN General Assembly passes its second DU resolution.

November 2008
Nordic Network Against Uranium Weapons established in Oslo.

September 2008
UN Secretary General publishes report on DU weapons.

February 2008
Finnish Minister of Foreign Affairs acknowledges need for uranium weapons treaty.
European Parliament establishes a DU Working Group.
UK politicians and NGOs condemn renewed DU test firing.

And on the home front in the U.S., the Washington, D.C.-based law firm, Burke PLLC which pursued claims for Abu Ghraib torture victims and Iraqi civilians killed by Blackwater guards, has joined forces with the Charleston, S.C. law firm, Motley Rice, the firm responsible for bringing down the tabacco industry in 1997. They are teaming up against Iraq environmental violators, Halliburton and Kellog, Brown & Root [former Vice President, Dick Cheney’s companies] on behalf of about 500 injured veterans and their survivors. The firm estimates that over 100,000 soldiers have been exposed to, and injured by the smoke and the toxins while deployed in Iraq since 2003.

In late 2008 Burke PLLC became aware that cancer cases amoungst soldiers began to surface. Although, I began reporting on cancer stricken soldiers in 2006 ….it has taken that long for injured parties ignored by the DoD and VA, to step forward, while the mainstream media lags behind barely covering the topic of cancer in the military post Iraq----which 95 percent of the American public is unaware of.

Lead council in Multi District Litigations, Susan Burke and sister, attorney Elizabeth Burke, filed 43 different lawsuits, all statewide legal actions in 2009. “When you look at the number of troops deployed to Iraq, the majority have been exposed to burn pits and contaminated water,” Susan Burke said.

It is only a matter of time before the contractors placed in Iraq, responsible for willingly exposing our troops to carcinogens, are placed before the firing squad of outraged American’s. Till then, it’s buisness as usual for our troops in Iraq; DU with their morning coffee, doughnuts and Burn Pits…a breakfast of champions for our future Veterans.’ So don’t be fooled this Memorial Day when you see the flags flying half mass in Washington, nor the fraudulent salute from our Former Administration, Bush and Cheney. As they are the two responsible for creating the war, and for sacrificing our men and women for their own diety; no longer a golden cow, but a pig made of green tresury paper with red, white and blue threads, dripping in brown sludge: their money hog [god] drentched in oil. Burn baby burn…..

“Depleted Uranium: From Sea To Shining Sea” Cancer Kills US Soldiers & Iraqi Civilians

Sister Solder: A Chronicle of Life After Iraq
By R. B. STUART
Post IXX


As early as 2007, four years after the war in Iraq, the medical journal, Lancet Oncology observed a trend, that several cancer registries were being locked out of Veteran’s Administration [VA] data beginning late 2004 [a year after the war in Iraq]. For decades the VA had voluntarily shared its data, allowing access to cancer patients. A Centers for Disease Control spokesman said as a result, "Potentially, 40 000 to 70 000 cases were missed nationally each year." Since several of the cancer registries national estimate of cases are askew, the spike in cancer rates of soldiers being diagnosed with cancer post 2003 deployment---remains unreported.

I have tracked nearly 40 soldiers since 2006 who have been diagnosed with rare, aggressive forms of cancer post their tour, half, have already died. The DoD and VA are less then forthright about this pattern---even as they approach the seventh anniversary of the war this March.

The environmental culprit, depleted Uranium and most recently the carcinogenic smoke from burn pits [the military’s resolve of disposing their sanitation in landfills---is burning the refuse, no matter what the content, in acre size dirt pits].

The United Nations Environment Programme has been conducting measurements of DU sites in Kosovo since 2000, later including Serbia, Bosnia, Kuwait and Iraq [the latter to be found with 42 contaminated sites]. Their “Depleted Uranium Awareness” pamphlet admits there’s a DU concern----but down-plays the cancer risks. DU is unable to penetrate the skin, but once there is inhalation or ingestion of the radiological DU dust, its toxicity has the ability to radiate the lungs and gut [multiplying in the cells].

Their projected time frame after exposure is 10 – 20 years before symptoms appear. But that is far from the truth. As soldiers lay ravaged in VA hospitals across the U. S. ----or their family’s, kneeling at the foot of a needless grave, know all too well. Privy to the VA data since 2003, the DoD is familiar with their diagnosis of an uncontrollable wildfire of rare cancer, appearing 4 to 36 months after exposure.

It is abhorrent that the DoD and mainstream media has stood shoulder to shoulder with locked arms blocking this information from the masses---military and civilian---in fear of soldiers deflecting. Especially when protective masks, gear and literature is readily available but intentionally withheld. But is death the only option? The young widow of Army Command Sergeant Major [CSM] James W. Hubbard Jr. [pictured throughout], with the 139th Medical Group Unit in Independence, Missouri, shares his story below.


The strapping Georgia native was drafted in 1972, a mere 20 years of age the autumn he enlisted. He was happy to leave Georgia, knowing the military would create opportunity that he wouldn’t have if he stayed. It instilled a sort of pride in him. It afforded him the ability to travel the world, he toured Egypt twice and lived in Germany for three years. He eventually returned to school where he earned his BA in Criminal Justice.

By 1980 the dedicated Army soldier decided eight years of Active Duty was enough and transferred into the Army Reserves. Year after year of superior military service he edged his way up in ranks to Command Sergeant Major, a rank that was the highlight of his career, and a proud accomplishment. But with such honors comes much commitment and before long he received orders to deploy to Iraq.

Fit for duty, the extremely active CSM Hubbard was in excellent health, never even needing an aspirin, and in preparation trained at Ft. Riley, Kansas. As the war in Iraq commenced February 2003, he deployed from the 450th Movement Control Battalion out of Kansas with Operation Iraqi Freedom.


His battalion landed in Iraq and forged ahead to their base camp at Talil Air Force Base [it’s been reported that Talil has one of the largest burn pits, 50-acres in size]. From there he spent the next 13 months traveling throughout Iraq, visiting his soldiers a few days at a time, at the many camps they called home. His health remained good, adrenalin keeping any possible issues at bay.

His tour ended March 2004, the arduous, year long stint was finally behind him. And like every soldier returning home he underwent routine blood work. Except his results were unusual and he was directed to a civilian doctor, who referred him to a blood specialist for follow-up testing and blood monitoring. He returned to the civilian job he’d been at since 2000, as a Sergeant at the Department of Correction in Kansas. And within a year met Katie, his young and beautiful future wife. Life was great. “According to my husband, they just monitored his blood without further testing and sent him home,” his wife Katie Hubbard recalled. “During the summer/fall of 2005 he began complaining that he couldn’t run like he was accustomed to. He would tire more easily and his workouts weren’t the same. He also started gaining weight.”


Over the next two years they planned their wedding. As a sports lover he watched the Atlanta Falcon’s and the University of Georgia Bulldogs play as much as he could. And with his wife to be shared his passion for war and Sci-fi movies, a collection of WWII figures, and introduced her to the soul of romance through the silky sounds of Motown music.

Unexpectedly, in early 2007, CSM Hubbard received orders to deploy to Kosovo for a year. The blissful couple decided to wed that Spring and within three months he shipped out to Kosovo. “Before Kosovo, he became winded easier, tired more often but otherwise was in good health. His weight gain became more pronounced while deployed from 2007- 2008. And fatigue was progressively worse,” his wife remembered. “When James came home from Kosovo, within a month he went to the Topeka VA Hospital in Kansas to begin the post deployment medical evaluation.” [This is a vital part of a soldiers medical history. The results, as well as their RER numbers [radiation exposure records] validating the radiation exposure from their tour, is permanently logged in their records, and data base. The RER data isn’t easily accessible to the soldier---but is to the VA and DoD.]


CSM Hubbard’s initial routine blood work turned into a flurry of do-overs in a five day period, at which point they finally disclosed that ‘his blood levels were critically low, and may need to be admitted for further testing.’ Urging him to schedule an appointment with the hematology department. Within two days he sat before Dr. Chester Stone, a hematologist, who informed him that ‘his levels were low, but not critical.’ “He thought that James either had a parasite or Leukemia, but didn't think it was acute. Inferring that if it was Leukemia, it wasn’t the “bad kind.” So he scheduled a bone marrow biopsy the following week, and ordered another CBC count,” Katie said.

The biopsy was botched the first time, so they re-drilled to retrieve the piece of bone marrow they weren’t able to initially. The doctors decided to include a series of genetic testing with the sample. Leaving the Hubbard’s anxiously awaiting the results for three weeks.


By mid November 2008 they met with the doctor. Expecting Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia if it was cancer, but hoping for a parasite or something easily treated. “We arrived and the doctor said, ‘It's Leukemia.’ Adding, ‘It’s a rare form and we can't be certain if it's Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia or Bi-Linagal Acute Myelogenous Leukemia.’ I was stunned. It was a blow to hear,” Katie admitted. “They believed James' Leukemia was from his service in Iraq.”

Dr. Stone urged them to move forth with testing and enter into a Transplant Center as CSM Hubbard needed a bone marrow transplant within a year. He saw three doctors before it was confirmed as Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia [ALL], with 85 percent Leukemia Blasts in his bone marrow. In January 2009 his chemotherapy port, a Hickman Catheter was placed. The Chemo started February at MD Anderson Cancer Treatment Center. “The Kansas City VA was to do his treatment, but the doctors there were not only horrific, but unknowledgeable and disrespectful,” Katie recounted.

CSM Hubbard’s Commander was very supportive inviting the Hubbard’s to stay with he and his wife during one of the cycles, continuing to visit him in the hospital. “Both his Colonel and Brigadier General are doctors in the civilian world,” she informed. “His Brigadier General kept in close communication with him out of concern. His Colonel stated there was no explanation for the type of cancer James had for his age. And was puzzled as to where he could have gotten it. Adding that, ‘It’s normally a young adults or children’s cancer.’ ”


Mrs. Hubbard confided, both she and her husband believed the cancer was from his exposure to the bounty of chemicals and depleted Uranium while deployed to Iraq. “In 2003, his unit entered immediately after the Iraqi’s left the area. With the blown up tanks and utter destruction who knows what toxins they were subjected to.” Revealing, “There was at least one other person from his unit that had Leukemia post deployment.”

Still with all the obstacles and challenges they faced in this tragic unexpected circumstance, CSM Hubbard remained optimistic about the future, often talking about his plans post treatment. “His main goal was to enjoy our new house and get back in shape.” So he decided to retire as Group CSM, forfeiting the opportunity to advance to Brigade Command Sergeant Major, a role he held twice during the interim between Iraq and Kosovo tours.

She noted his chemo treatment during the odd cycles affected his PTSD. “He was extremely moody and short tempered. The even cycles made him more tired and took a day or two longer to gather his strength back.” In all, “James was beating the cancer and was in clinical remission after round two. The first few cycles at MD Anderson went good and he was treated well,” she reported. “But the doctor was aggressive and wanted to get the last remaining residual blasts (0.65%) out. She wanted the counts to be 0.00%. He was to undergo another bone marrow biopsy prior to cycle five. That one would have told us if a bone marrow transplant was necessary.”


It had been six months since his diagnosis. With hope in their heart after round four the Hubbard’s left the hospital for a much needed break. They left Houston and drove back home to Leavenworth, Kansas. CSM Hubbard’s body, tired and beaten from three months of aggressive treatments and chemicals---almost knocking the life out of him---just wanted to go home with his dedicated wife and recoup.

Within two days their hope had vanished as CSM Hubbard had developed explosive bouts of frequent diarrhea. Katie Hubbard had been advised by his doctors before leaving the hospital to administer the over-the-counter remedy, “Imodium.” “After I cleaned him up he was sitting up on the bed. I walked away and when I looked back I saw that he fell over onto his side. I went back to the bed and laid beside him, and as I started asking him how he felt I noticed his eyes were as big as half dollars,” she exclaimed.

“I knew something was wrong so I called 911 and he was taken to the ER in Leavenworth, Kansas. They wouldn’t allow me to ride with him, so I jumped into my vehicle and followed them to the hospital,” she said with frustration. “I stood by as they carried him from the ambulance, wheeling him to the ER. James squeezed my hand when I told him I loved him, and not to leave me. I assured him I was there for him,” she wept. “Then the EMS insisted I register him and barred me from his side while they performed CPR. Before long, the doctors returned, only to callously announce his death.”

“James ultimately died from a reaction to the antibiotic, “Vantin.” During his last cycle of chemo his doctors didn’t listen when I explained his symptoms, they instructed me to treat it with “Imodium.” Their unwillingness to listen ultimately caused his death,” she said angrily. “He was just completing the therapy in round four and we were waiting to start round five when he died,” she mourned.

Without medical explanation, she assumed his potassium levels may have dropped dangerously low from the severe diarrhea, “But we’ll never know because St. John’s Hospital ER didn’t order the blood work,” she cried.

His Colonel later said to Mrs. Hubbard, ‘You don’t cover-up the symptoms by treating them with Imodium.’ Online she read, ‘moderate to severe diarrhea’ is one of the side effects of an ‘adverse reaction’ to the antibiotic.


On May 21, 2009, at the age of 57, after 36 years, 6 months, and 27 days in the military, CSM James W. Hubbard Jr’s, father and brother beckoned him from the gates of heaven, calling the courageous, dedicated soldier home. There was no chance for final wishes, as he died suddenly and unexpectedly---alone.

His two sons from an earlier marriage, a grandson, five sisters, and mother had not been given the chance to clutch his hand, and squeeze away the fear of the unknown, nor rest their eyes on their beloved’s face one last time. The mistaken prognosis of a 90-95 percent chance of survival had evaporated---into the ethers along with his spirit. Suffering no longer---his hopes and dreams of what could have been lay buried at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

The evidence---another witness who’s suffered the toxic environmental secrets of the U. S. military in Iraq---is lost. All because of the DoD’s failure to provide the troops with preventative measures to fight the invisible enemy known as radiation. Without caution, we enrage over an unborn fetus at an abortion clinic, but when it comes to our soldiers---without conscience---we fall deaf and blind. Heavenly Father help us for killing our own---while cloaked in patriotism, we have become, the Weapon of Mass Destruction.

CSM Hubbard's VA letter admitting the cancer was related to his tour in Iraq.

The Guardian UK
January 22, 2010
“Study Finds Iraq Littered with High Levels of Nuclear and Dioxin Contamination”

• Greater rates of cancer and birth defects near sites
• Depleted uranium among poisons revealed in report

More than 40 sites across Iraq are contaminated with high levels or radiation and dioxins, with three decades of war and neglect having left environmental ruin in large parts of the country, an official Iraqi study has found.Areas in and near Iraq's largest towns and cities, including Najaf, Basra and Falluja, account for around 25% of the contaminated sites, which appear to coincide with communities that have seen increased rates of cancer and birth defects over the past five years.

The joint study by the environment, health and science ministries found that scrap metal yards in and around Baghdad and Basra contain high levels of ionizing radiation, which is thought to be a legacy of depleted uranium used in munitions during the first Gulf war and since the 2003 invasion.

“URANIUM IN IRAQ: THE POISONOUS LEGACY OF THE IRAQ WARS”

By Abdul-Haq Al-Ani & Joanne Baker

June 2009, Vandeplas Publishing

The book outlines environmental problems and legal implications of the contamination of Iraq due to the use of depleted Uranium in military weapons used during the Gulf Wars. The military use of uranium has the potential to be a serious contributing factor to the illnesses besetting the Iraqi population. The authors address the concerns surrounding the changing health patterns in Iraq since 1991 and, in particular, the increase in cancers and genetic birth defects amongst children.

COPYRIGHT January 2010, R. B. STUART. All Rights Reserved. No Reproduction of this Blog in any form.

“The Harley to Heaven:” Soldier Dies From Cancer Before Tour Ends

Sister Soldier: A Chronicle of Life After Iraq
By R. B. STUART
Post XVII


As a young boy, from first to sixth grade, Travis Bromfield [pictured throughout] rode to school on the back of his father’s motorcycle. Wedged between his Dads back and the sissy bar---the wind caressed his innocent cheeks---and his taste for the road was born. He developed a passion for not only motorcycles but cars too learning mechanics throughout high school. After graduating he decided to continue his education and become a certified mechanic, setting his sights on the United Technical Institute in Arizona. Except the tuition at the high ranking school was out of reach for his humble family.

His step-mother Esther Bromfield commented, “Even though I did not give birth to my son Travis I helped give him life. My husband had custody of Travis when we married. Travis was six years old, a very happy, loving child. As a mother raising five children they are all very special. They make you proud that you have steered them in the right direction.”

So in 1999, the Anaheim, California native hoped the GI Bill would give him the funds after a three-year enlistment, to attend. So the 18 year-old Bromfield followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and joined the Army. The middle child of five was the only son of Terry Bromfields’s to step out of his civilian life, leaving his other three brothers and sister marveling at his courage. His grandfather, SGT. 1st Class, Leo Carroll, a 73 year-old WWII and Korean Veteran with a Purple Heart and Bronze Star, in admiration, watched his grandson honor his country the way he did from 1944 –1966 ---and don a camouflage uniform.


His step-mother gushed, “Travis grew up to be such a handsome, respectable man. When he decided to join the Army I was so very proud of him. He was proud of himself as he should be for his accomplishments.”

Young Bromfield made his home at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin Army base in California where he became a Military Mechanic, and served with the 10th Mountain Division and later the 11th Armored Calvary Division Regiment, after he opted to reenlist another term and forfeit his dream of UTI in Arizona. Without foresight the war in Iraq was looming just a year ahead in 2003. Then by February 2005 nearing 24, the strapping six-foot-four 250-pounder in excellent health prepared for a one-year deployment to Kuwait, then onto Baghdad, Iraq. Before leaving he told his father, “Dad when I return (from Iraq) I'm going to buy a Harley Davidson motorcycle." Terry replied, “Go ahead son you deserve it.”

Skirting the bitter sand-laced winds and suffocating heat, the E-4 Specialist made a home at Camp Taji. The unpredictable nature of California fires, tremors, mudslides, throbbing heat and winds---wouldn’t be enough to prepare him for the unforgiving landscape of Baghdad.

Two months into his tour bumps erupted on top of his head which he assumed were bug bites. He later informed his parents of the pain he was experiencing with his shoulder---certain he strained it. The discomfort gravitated to his lower back, at which time he developed a cough that the medics diagnosed as a respitory infection.

By September 2005, after seven-months in Iraq, his two-week leave couldn’t come fast enough, and SPC. Travis Bromfield departed Camp Liberty for a respite on the Pacific coast of California. His family’s loving hearts and arms open wide welcoming, the undoubtedly changed, soldier home. But it was his Dad that insisted he see doctors at the Long Beach, California Veterans Hospital. His grandfather sat idle as he witnessed his grandson undergo a battery a tests, and after inspection of the bites atop his head, the 25 year-old soldier would discover that they were cancer tumors all along. And the shoulder pain he experienced in Iraq were tumors, the lower back pain; tumors in his lower spine, and his respitory infection---misdiagnosed---was a large tumor in the center of his chest obstructing his breathing.

Those initial days home would be more life changing than the tour in Iraq itself, as a trio of VA Doctors diagnosed SPC. Bromfield on September 15, 2005 with a terminal, stage IV Poorly Differentiated Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of unknown primary, of the liver, bones, lungs, kidneys, brain and spine. With a two-month expectancy, this particular cancer only occurs in patients age 55 or older. So it was unpredictably rare that a 25 year-old be diagnosed with it.

Although the dire prognosis didn’t deter SPC. Bromfield as he remained unfettered and extremely strong throughout his ordeal. “Travis never felt pity for himself. He was determined to beat the cancer and prove his Doctors wrong,” his father Terry Bromfield remembered. “I thought from the beginning that Travis must have been exposed to something in Iraq. I just couldn’t comprehend how our son left here healthy and returned full of cancer. I questioned the Doctors about his possible exposure, but the replies I got were, ‘It’s too early to tell.” Or ‘The cancer wouldn’t have shown up this fast even if he was exposed to something,’ said another. While one commented, ‘Your son has so much cancer in him it’s the same as someone who smoked cigarettes for 40 years,’ ” his father recollected. “Convinced, we stood by our son without thinking about it again.”

His step-mother Esther added, “After we started putting things together I remembered a staff nurse making a comment that the soldiers were coming back from this war worse than the soldiers from Vietnam.”

After his diagnosis several of SPC. Bromfield’s Army Sergeants and Officers came to visit him. His father reported that his sons Army Commanders were extremely upset with the medical staff in Iraq for not diagnosing him in the field sooner.

SPC. Bromfield unable to complete his tour in Iraq---went to battle for his own life, as his health was under siege by an internal enemy; cancer. It had found a breeding ground of organs in which to multiply, and it would take an insurgency of chemotherapy to eradicate its occupation. Promising to extend his life expectancy to one year.

Beyond surgery, he endured chemo treatments of three different drugs administered intravenously for nearly seven hours a day. Additionally a pill form of chemo was administered for 10 days, followed by self-injections for bone marrow for another five days. “This was one cycle of treatment,” his father exclaimed. “Travis underwent this every three weeks for a total of four cycles.” Following that, he took two drugs intravenously once a week for 26 weeks. “After 20 weeks of the second round of treatment the tumors on his head ate through to his skull and cancer tumors exploded in his brain,” he recounted in horror. The Doctors removed him from the chemo and ordered radiation for 20 days and then back onto chemo. “Although Travis’ cancer was pretty well advanced when diagnosed---it was one year before the cancer took over his body.”

Seventeen months from when his battle first began, The Long Beach Veterans Hospital used their assault of Chemo, radiation, and palliative care (pain management)…then finally hospice care, before all that remained was fulfilling the final wishes of SPC. Bromfield.

A portion of his requests were granted; that monies be donated to cancer research, and to have his family by his side at the end (as they were, except for one). His grandfather, who silently paved the way for his beloved and courageous grandson, had passed away five months earlier. Enabling him to wait with a flock of angels at the gates of Heaven for his grandson.

Then on February 20, 2007 at 105 pounds, the young 25 year-old hero melted into a golden blanket of bravery and love in which his grandfather was holding. They both walked arm and arm into where the selfless alone are permitted….the courageous, heroic protectors of our wars…the soldiers---into an Eden bathed in peace. For SPC. Travis Bromfield’s journey had ended, and finally, he along with his grandfather---were going home.

The medical review board discharged SPC. Bromfield from the Army before the review was over. Claiming they couldn’t reach him. His case manager at the VA hospital was able to have the specialist re-enlisted until review was complete at which time he was medically retired. After nearly seven years of service with his last unit, The 11th Armored Calvary, his wish for full military honors were granted and he was buried at the National Cemetery of Riverside, California, where he remains close to his parents and four siblings. In remembrance for his service, seven medals hang framed on the wall, including The Iraq Campaign medal, The Army Accommodation medal, The Army Achievement medal, The Global War on Terrorism medal and National Defense medal.

“To be diagnosed with terminal cancer days after he came home for leave was devastating for our family, but we were all there for him from day one until the Lord took him into his hands. To watch my son go through this cancer and not complain made him a hero in my eyes,” his mother choked back tears. “Through all his treatments, set backs and disappointments Travis stayed positive.”

Since he didn’t have the chance to buy his Harley Davidson, his father said,. “After he had passed away and all his affairs were settled. I was sitting in our garage thinking of Travis and thought I want to do something for him. So I had an idea to buy a Harley Davidson and make it a memorial to him.” Painting the entire bike with portraits of his son, a montage of years from his happy, but brief life. His parents ride it to all charity events including, “Rides for Cancer” and rides that help injured soldiers. “The interest and comments we receive are great---as we are able to share with others our discoveries after Travis’ death. It prompts people to ask questions about what happened, in which we gladly oblige,” informed Terry Bromfield. He purchased a 1999 Ultra Classic---of the same year his son joined the military.

“After much research we’re convinced Travis was exposed to depleted Uranium. We don’t believe the troops are being trained properly, let alone told what they are dealing with. Especially the mechanics that handle the DU contaminated vehicles that have been damaged (by roadside bombs),” his father admitted.

“We would visit my son at the Long Beach VA almost everyday, Even while he lay flat in bed all day for 5 months unable to sit up, we spent as much time as possible, even if we sat and watched him sleep. It never entered my mind that my own government poisoned my son,” his mother said in disbelief. “But I know now from all the research both my husband and I have done, along with other parents we have spoken to, that is, exactly what happened. The media won’t touch this for fear of our government. There’s an old saying, ‘everything comes out in the wash’ and I think the washing machine has started.”

“I just can’t believe that our government is treating our soldiers as if they are expendable,” his father reeled. “It’s one thing to lose a child in war by acts of war but to be actually poisoning our soldiers with exposure to depleted Uranium and burn pits that the government has been told by their experts not to is another. Maybe if this happens to one of our top official’s child (and God forbid), then maybe they will do something about it, and believe the parents who have lost a child this way.”

He added, “We parents need to join forces about this travesty to our soldiers. I tell as many people as possible and most respond with, ‘I have never heard about this and why hasn’t it been in the news?’ I tell them the government does not want the public to know. As one high ranking military officer put it, ‘this is the modern day Agent Orange.’"

"Are we as a country going to wait as many years as Vietnam Vets did before our government acknowledges this? I hope not.” Stressing, “It really hurts that our son went to war for this country, willfully gave his life, and our government won’t even acknowledge Travis as a “casualty of war.” Travis was proud to be a soldier and proud to serve his country. And we as a family are extremely proud of him.”

“It is very difficult to know that Travis will never be coming home,” Terry Bromfield mourned. “Tears still fill my eyes when I think of our son and all he had to go through. It was extremely difficult to watch our son deteriorate day after day and there wasn’t a damn thing we could do. We felt completely helpless. His Mom and I continue to visit his grave each week even though it’s been nearly three years since he passed away, it does not get any easier. But going to his grave is the closest we feel to Travis now. It somewhat brings us comfort to be with him there. Our whole week revolves around going to the cemetery on the weekend. This is our life now. We must remain strong for our child in this battle with the government.”

“Our government needs to STOP looking at these brave casualty of war soldiers as a small percentage for the “greater good.” My son Travis along with the thousands of other soldiers beginning with Desert Storm who have come down with and died from cancers from their exposure to DU in my eyes, died directly connected to the war and should be recognized as such,” Esther Bromfield argued.

“DU is harming not only our American loved one’s but the people in Iraq too,” she fumed. “This will be another Vietnam. Our government knows what’s going on, as they did then. And I’ll be dammed if it takes 20 years for the government to take responsibility for this. They downplay the use of DU but they know very well what it’s doing.”

“At Travis’ gravesite, we sit sometimes in silence, sometimes in tears but always with our memories which no one can take from us. Travis loved this country and was very patriotic---he served his country bravely. Our country needs to stop this. We need to join forces and let people know what’s happening to our sons, daughters, fathers, uncles, aunts, mothers, and sisters,” his step-mother grieved.

“Everyday there is something that reminds me of my son---he is with me at all times. I miss his smile, his laughter, his touch, his scent. I want my son back and I know that won’t happen,” she wept. “But I don’t want another parent to go through what we did.”


Copyright August 2009, R. B. STUART, All Rights Reserved. No Reproduction of this Blog in any form.

"MARINE MAROONED BY U.S. MILITARY"

Sister Soldier: A Chronicle of Life After Iraq
By R. B. STUART
Post XVI



As a child, Marine Staff Sergeant Ryan J. Oyster [pictured throughout] emulated his father, a Marine. Even though his biological father was in the background of his life---the adventurous youngster who had a penchant for uniforms---had his sights on the military. An outdoorsman, he was an Eagle Scout, played baseball, soccer, football, wrestled and ran cross country. Then in 1998 when he was old enough to make his own life’s choices, at 18 the Virginia native set out on a journey that would claim his body---and eventually his life.

He became a Marine and found a home stationed at the U. S. Marine Corps base, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Married to his childhood sweetheart, Rachel, who without reservations proudly became a military wife and mother to their four children.

SSG. Ryan Oyster was the epitome of perfect health, a go-getter and full of life---he wanted it all and that’s how he lived, his mother Evelyn Oyster reminisced.


But five years later all that would change. In February 2003, SSG. Oyster would deploy to a place where his father never served---the battlefields of Iraq. During the initial assault he was just turning 23, his mother Evelyn Oyster recalled. “On his birthday

March 21st his battalion was pushing against the hot desert sands of Iraq. Ryan said as he drove the tool truck nicknamed the “tool bitch,” that when hearing the gun blasts, felt his birthday come in with a bang.”

SSG. Oyster was a trained “Amtrak Mechanic,” responsible for repairing the military’s 27-ton land and sea, Amphibious Assault Vehicles. In Iraq they transported hoards of courageous young men from sea to land, and also shuttled the wounded and ravaged to safety.

For four months SSG. Oyster brushed the salty sweat from his brow and trudged across the baked lands of Kuwait, Baghdad, Felusa and Kirkut. With his bravery in tact---the wind swept sand speckled his saliva and scratched at his eyes. While clusters of invisible particles from unknown origin made a home in his chest and lungs---he maintained his composure---complaining briefly about a stomach virus that most of his fellow Marines encountered.

The end of his tour finally came in June 2003, alas he was homebound to Camp Quantico in Virginia, and his adoring wife with three cackling children. Life was good as he was adjusting to a normal routine. But then 16 months later, October 2004, SSG. Oyster experienced a shortness of breath and then eventually leg swelling which brought him to Bethesda Naval Hospital who diagnosed him with one functioning lung and kidney disease. They assumed it was an old, undiagnosed pneumonia caused by the kidney disease. Only later discovering it was a pulmonary embolism caused by the kidney disease and not pneumonia which never existed. In an attempt to stave off the kidney disease and wrestle it into remission, SSG. Oyster was given a treatment of chemotherapy alternated by steroids.

Two years later they found he had a blood clotting disorder and had several major clots around his heart. SSG. Oyster saw several doctors at Bethesda Naval. “But, they would not further diagnose and biopsy his lymph nodes. They were in denial,” reported his wife Rachel Oyster. “So we went to our local hospital, Winchester Medical Center [Virginia] and they performed the original biopsy and sent the lymph node to the University of Virginia [UVA] who made the diagnosis. In May 2007 they [UVA] discovered he had Cancer. A form of Cancer they’d never seen before, nor what it was.”

Because the military minimalized SSG. Oyster’s condition the Oyster’s chose to have his medical care provided by UVA and Winchester Medical Center, which were both closer in proximity. “Bethesda Naval told us specifically that they did not believe Ryan had cancer and would not perform the biopsy. Only after Ryan received his diagnosis from the civilian hospital did they believe it, and try to convince us to transfer to Bethesda Naval for his cancer treatments,” Rachel Oyster commented.


Since the rare Germ Cell Cancer was of an “Unknown Primary Source” it was treated as stage IV. The day after the Oyster’s were informed it was stage IV he began chemotherapy. Unknowingly, by alternating each month with high doses of steroids it resulted in the tumors growing more rapidly. “During that time…because of the build-up of fluid in his chest cavity and lungs, the doctors ordered a round of radiation to help shrink the tumors in his chest. They [the tumors] were blocking his lymphatic fluid,” Rachel Oyster recounted. “Except, after only one round of chemotherapy Ryan’s body went into shock. He coded and was put on a ventilator for five weeks.”

During the four years of ongoing health issues SSG. Oyster was always very positive, “He always thought it could be worse. But once he was diagnosed with cancer he was very scared and didn’t know what to do or how to feel. That broke his spirit,” Rachel Oyster admitted.


The day after Memorial Day 2007 SSG. Oyster became so weak it sent him to the oncologists office. Without pause, they admitted him. “For the first time since Ryan had been ill he asked me to stay the night,” Rachel Oyster remembered. “Then later that night he went into cardiac arrest and stopped breathing. The nurses and doctors were able to revive him and he was put on a ventilator.”

His prognosis was bleak. With the lack of oxygen, his body was in septic shock, he was diagnosed with a MERSA infection in the good lobe of his lung, with a deadly form of pneumonia in both lungs.

His five-week stay in the CCU was smattered with complications and an emotional roller coaster for his wife and family. “Several times his heart stopped and he would be able to restart it himself within 20 seconds---they remedied it by inserting a temporary pacemaker. He received daily blood transfusions and blood plasma for the first four weeks. While simultaneously undergoing radiation to help shrink the tumors in his chest which caused fluid to build around his lungs,” recalled Rachel Oyster.

On June 28th they were able to remove the ventilator….his first word was FOOD. He was released home on July 6, 2007 with an uncertain prognosis. SSG. Oyster unable to walk by himself, needed assistance. For the administering of daily antibiotics he still had a PIC line in his arm, which was also used to feed him intravenously. Rachel Oyster stated, “I refused home health care and did it all myself. Ryan fought his way through an incredible illness to be able to come home before he died.”


In his final days....

SSG. Ryan Oyster dutifully gave the military six and a half years of his life then willfully handed it over to Cancer. On July 21, 2007 at the age of 27, he peacefully died at home in his sleep---10 weeks after his diagnosis----with those that he loved around him. SSG. Oyster’s only concern was that his wife of nine and a half years and their four children be taken care of if he passed. “I thank God for him being able to come home and see his children before he left this world,” Rachel Oyster mourned. As the eldest, he leaves behind five siblings and both his parents. He is buried at a cemetery near his home…close enough for them to visit often…sharing with him their endless love and devotion, and a spray of pink roses---he and his wife’s favorite. As father, husband, son and brother, his spirit has woven itself through their hearts.

In hindsight Rachel Oyster said they were led to believe it was just ‘one of those things.’ “But right after Ryan passed I started reading all these stories about sick soldiers and some of their stories were exactly like his. I certain, as well as his doctors, both civilian and military, that Ryan endured exposure to depleted Uranium. Because when he was in Iraq he was responsible for handling the destruction of vehicles if they could not be repaired.” She concludes, “I believe Ryan’s body was sensitive to the depleted Uranium dust that was in the air and that’s how and why he became sick. The DU first attacked his respitory system, lungs, kidneys and progressed to Cancer.”

When she approached his former doctor at Winchester Medical Center with her DU findings---he obliged her by reviewing it. So disturbed by what he learned, Dr. Nicholas Gemma provided Rachel Oyster with a statement for the VA verifying that his Cancer was DU related. Even though it’s after the fact…it is a victory for her. Now to make the military admit her late husbands Cancer was a war wound will be her next challenge.

In happier times as a boy....when life was innocent & his future was bright

His mother reflects, “The number 21 is bittersweet for us. It was a number significant to his life; he was born on the 21st, married December 21st, and died July 21st. I believe God gives us signs that he has our loved ones. If I didn’t have God---I wouldn’t have been able to get through his death. He did a lot and accomplished much in his brief 27 years. He loved life, and had very strong faith…people like him just don’t die.” Candidly adding, “I am very sad for my loss….you never accept it---you just learn to live with it.”

----AP National Writer, Sharon Cohen
June 27, 2009
“Did Toxic Chemical in Iraq Cause GIs' Illnesses?”
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090627/ap_on_re_us/us_toxic_legacy_of_war

EXCERPT: This isn't the first claim that toxins have harmed soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan; there have been allegations involving lead, depleted Uranium and sarin gas. It's the same chemical linked to poisonings in California in a case made famous in the movie "Erin Brockovich." Hexavalent chromium — a toxic component of sodium dichromate — can cause severe liver and kidney damage and studies have linked it to leukemia as well as bone, stomach, brain and other cancers, according to an expert who provided a deposition for the civilian workers.

The chemical "is one of the most potent carcinogens know to man" and it can "enter every cell of the body and potentially produce widespread injury to every major organ in the body," said Max Costa, chairman of New York University's Department of Environmental Medicine.

KBR, however, says studies show only that industrial workers exposed to the chemical for more than two years have an increased risk of cancer — and in this case, soldiers were at the plant just days or months.

The company also notes air quality studies concluded the Indiana Guard soldiers were not exposed to high levels of hexavalent chromium. But Costa says those tests were done when the wind was not blowing.

Both soldiers and former workers say there were days when strong gusts kicked up ripped-open bags of the chemical, creating a yellow-orange haze that coated everything from their hair to their boots.

"I was spitting blood and I was not the only one doing that," recalls Danny Langford, who worked for the KBR subsidiary. "The wind was blowing 30, 40 miles an hour. You could just hardly see where you were going. I pulled my shirt over my nose and there would be blood on it. I also saw the soldiers. They had blood splotches on their masks."


---CNN, Adam Levine
June 25, 2009
“House Votes to Limit Use of Burn Pits on Bases”
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/06/25/house-votes-to-limit-use-of-burn-pits-on-bases/

Copyright July 2009, R. B. STUART, All rights reserved. No reproduction of this blog in any form.

"LEUKEMIA: THE NEW ARMY CAMOUFLAGE"

Sister Soldier: A Chronicle of Life After Iraq
By R. B. STUART
Part XV


While the country is ravaged by a crippling economy it is a lightweight problem compared to what’s happening to a portion of American families---military families. They are experiencing something more severe than financial loss---emotional devastation----as their loved ones; son’s, father’s, husband’s and brother’s---are coming home from their tour in Iraq---laden with cancer. Their flag draped coffins don’t trail through Andrew’s Air Force Base for a final salute. Their coffins and urns are discreetly transported to the family’s resting place, six months, one or two years after they return home---with no media fanfare.

They are the families of the courageous soldiers who upon coming home in one piece, thought that PTSD would be their only battle. But for many it’s just the beginning, as there can be up to a two year incubation period for the cancer to emerge. It is the after effects from their exposure to carcinogens in Iraq---from burn pits to depleted Uranium. And the soldiers, so unknowingly toxic, begin to experience symptoms of a disease that will rapidly take their life. Mangling them whole. As was the case with a young Army Specialist, Andrew Ray Rounds from Oregon. [the photo above was pre Army---the last summer as a civilan]

The day before Halloween 2002, Andy Rounds just nearing 18 years old began boot camp. It was a family tradition to join the military, as his father and grandfather had both served. The self-professed spiritual warrior trained as “14 Juliet” air support for incoming aircraft by identifying them on radar. His home base in Hawaii, the Army’s Scholfield Barracks.

An outdoorsman, he was the epitome of health, finding enjoyment in jogging, swimming, skateboarding, camping and hiking. The military newspaper, Stars and Stripes highlighted him early on for his outstanding physical endurance on his initial PT test. So there was no surprise in January 2004 SPC. Rounds was selected to deploy to Iraq. On his first convoy from Kuwait to Kirkuk he rode atop the last humvee manning a 50 caliber gun. During the eight hour desert journey he drove through hazardous burn pit smoke, ten times more toxic than the sulpher and carbon dioxide plumes found at coal plants in the U. S. accused of producing Acid Rain. SPC. Rounds exposure to Iraq’s environmental toxins had begun.


He settled into the Forward Operating Base camp in Kirkuk, Iraq. His duties were Tower Guard checking-in locals working on the base, while escorting transfer workers around the base. He also escorted his crew to the laundry facility and stood guard over them. But everything changed a few months into his tour, after he’d been involved in an explosion at the camps ammunition dump--a depleted Uranium graveyard. Unknowingly, the radioactive smoke and dust amplified his exposure. “He and another soldier were heading towards the chow area when the ammo dump exploded,” his mother Lisa Rounds recounted. “They were so close that running to shelter wasn't an option. The explosions sent shrapnel flying all around them for about 15-20 minutes. They laid frozen in a low area until it was safe to move.”

This episode brought a change to the young soldier, as he began feeling very depressed and started giving away many of his possessions. His mother said she thought it was strange, “And it made me uneasy. Although the depression was understandable at the time, mortars were often lobbed into his base. One hit the barracks next door, but luckily that camps soldier was on guard duty, and the mortar didn't explode.”


Like some teens predicting their own deaths, SPC. Rounds always had a feeling that he was going to die at 17. “Andy had a premonition that he wouldn’t live too long. But when he lived past that age it was like hooray!” his mother remembered.

After 14 months in Iraq his tour ended October 2005 and SPC. Rounds headed back to Scholfied Barracks in Hawaii. Besides complaining of his feet hurting, and his inability to jog or work-out as frequently, he was in good health. Within a year his term ended and he separated from the Army. By October 2006 he was enroute back to Oregon where the 20 year-old rented an apartment and worked for a local business delivering furniture.

But within months SPC. Rounds developed a persistent stuffy nose and a portion of his vision became blurred. “He just felt bad. Intuitively he knew something was very wrong inside,” Lisa Rounds recalled.

So SPC. Rounds went to the local Lebanon, Oregon hospital where a doctor diagnosed him with a sinus infection and prescribed medication. “He did not improve after a week or so and returned to the doctor complaining of coughing up and vomiting blood and his vision problems,” Lisa Rounds said. This doctor was more concerned then the first and sent SPC. Rounds for a CT-scan of his sinus and chest areas. Another doctor followed-up after the scan but didn’t seem worried and adhered to the initial diagnosis of a sinus infection, telling SPC. Rounds, ‘Yep, you’re full of snot.’ And ordered him a stronger medication.

Two days later Lisa Rounds just happened to stop by her sons apartment to check in on him. Except she found him sprawled out on his bedroom floor semi-conscious. “I called 911 and he was taken to the local hospital,” she said. “If I had arrived a half hour later he would have been dead.”

The ER doctors thought it might be spinal meningitis and quarantined him, but his CDC came back negative. The blood panel showed his white blood cell count elevated to over 400,000 [10,000 – 70,000 being normal]. “Andy had continual seizures, and piticea where red dots blanketed the skin on his legs and stomach. It was a symptom that his blood capillaries were bleeding-out. His unconsciousness was due to bleeds in the brain,” his mother explained. “And if they didn’t figure out the cause immediately he was going to die.”

The Rounds’ remained confident in the doctors as they had no reason to doubt their diagnosis. “We couldn’t comprehend it at the time that his symptoms were life threatening,” she admitted.

The local doctors at Lebanon, at least a half dozen, were baffled by the multiple symptoms after his collapse. It was difficult for them to stabilize SPC. Rounds so they consulted with doctors at Oregon Health and Science University Cancer Institute [OHSU] in Portland and decided to medEvac him there.

Finally on January 23, 2007 the Rounds’ family was informed that their young son had Acute Myeloid Leukemia [AML]. “We were told it was so aggressive that nothing was working and he was not going to survive,” his mother mourned. “It was the reason for the bleed-outs---the leukemia was changing the structure of his blood. Unknowingly, when Andy complained months earlier that his feet hurt, it was the AML, it started to settle in the bones of his feet.”

Once SPC. Rounds was properly diagnosed he immediately went into surgery for a craniectomy. In order to relieve the pressure from the bleeds in his brain, they needed to remove part of his skull. After surgery they induced a coma to try to control his breathing. Lisa Rounds said, “Then similar to dialysis, they cleaned his blood of the leukemia cells and prepared him for chemo treatment.” SPC. Rounds remained in a coma for three weeks until he started fighting the breathing machine.

His new doctor at OHSU Dr. Tibor Kovacsovics callously remarked his first impression of the Rounds’ case, ‘I’ll prepare the chemo, but I’m not going to treat a vegetable.’ The Rounds’ were horrified at the insensitivity. But then Dr. Kovacsovics valiantly took on the case and did all he could to help their son survive.

SPC. Rounds received a port in his chest for easy access of the nearly ten doses of chemo, sometimes two together. And three tracheotomies. He slowly came out of the coma. His mother observed, “Beyond the physical damage, we knew Andy was still “in there.” It took months for him to come out of the confusion from the brain injury, he had to re-learn how to talk and walk. It was such a difficult time…he had short term memory loss and partial right side paralysis.”

Everyday SPC. Rounds confidently worked at his rehabilitation, and surprising many, quickly re-learned how to talk and walk. “It was uplifting that he was so resilient. He was an amazing miracle,” Lisa Rounds said with astonishment. “The doctors said they thought his brain injury was too severe to survive, let alone be intelligent, still have memories and retain the same personality as before. But we had faith and believed our son would beat this thing.”


After about six months of treatment and rehabilitation at OHSU, SPC. Rounds was finally able to go home with his parents. “He took everything so well, and knew the seriousness of it. Andy kept thanking us for taking care of him. He persevered for his Mom and Pops,” she said lovingly. SPC. Rounds felt disappointed of what he was putting his parents through. “He was not happy that it was happening to him, but he was also accepting of the possibility that this was reality and he would probably die. He tried so hard though. He has always had faith that there is existence after life, so he wasn't afraid, but he knew how very sad this would make us feel,” Lisa Rounds shared.

Because SPC. Rounds was feeling so down about his situation he didn't socialize much nor did he share any of his Army buddies' names with his family. “It was strange that way, Andy always had a bazillion friends, he was special in that he made everyone he spoke to feel like they mattered and had interesting stories to tell,” she remarked of her son.

SPC. Rounds would rally for a short time and then the AML would take over again. Then in mid September 2007 after a joyous 30 day stay with his family, he returned to the hospital in Corvallis, Oregon where he received care for the next six weeks from Dr. Steven Neville. Unfortunately it would be the final weeks of his life. Surrounded by his family, the young soldier, almost 23 years old would take his last breath, and on October 20th, 2007 his spirit would relinquish his body and sail off into the ethers. The spiritual warrior found peace in his new after world, one without pain or suffering, and made up of love and kindness.

“He touched so many people's lives, it still amazes me. He was a gift to us and we're so happy we got to be Andy's parents,” his mother confided. Because of the brain injury they really couldn’t speak to their son about his final wishes. But had discussed it in the past and SPC. Rounds expressed his desire to be cremated and buried at the local cemetery. “Some of his ashes were spread at is favorite camp site near our home,” Lisa Rounds informed. He left behind a sister, April that will turn 29this year.

The Rounds’ are convinced their son was exposed to toxins in Iraq and DU during the ammo dump explosion at his base in Kirkuk March 2004. When the Rounds’ voiced their concerns to the Portland VA Assistance Offices, they were ‘very nice’ but the main governmental VA department was unresponsive to their son's condition. “We were shocked by the brick wall we hit at the VA. Because with this particular cancer, it takes 1 – 2 years for it to manifest, which coincides with his term in Iraq,” Lisa Rounds said with astonishment. “They tried everything they could to get help for Andy, but because it was an illness and not an injury, there was no assistance for him. So the Oregon State Health Plan stepped in when the VA wouldn’t because they felt Andy was a worthy cause. So we’re very grateful to them for taking care of our son.”

Not only would the VA not take responsibility for this soldiers rare cancer diagnosis and 14 month tour in Iraq, suffice to say neither would the doctors at OHSU. They stand by their medical claims that there weren’t any connections between his acute leukemia and military service. [below, happier times.... with his parents]


From January to October 2007, the Rounds’ “fought this battle.” “It was a gift we had him for those 10 months---it was like a long goodbye,” she solemnly ended.

April 17, 2009 ICBUW ---Associate Professor, Scientist,
Kadhim Almuqdadi: Iraqi MD and Environmental Researcher in Sweden Initiates International Petition.

Because of the radioactive contamination which resulted from the use of uranium munitions in the second (1991) and third (2003) Gulf wars in Iraq. We call on the Governments of the countries who joined the United States in those wars where depleted uranium ammunitions were used, to share the responsibility of the health and environmental disaster of Iraq today.
[ http://www.petitiononline.com/IrqNoDU/petition.html ]

The Memorandum to the United Nations and the Governments of the Countries of the World states:

The environmental pollution which occurred after the war, especially the radioactive, has already caused hundreds of thousands of cancer deaths and injuries, and congenital deformities, stillbirths, infertility, and many untreatable ailments. Knowing that no dose of radiation, however low, is safe and harmless, we remind you that no borders, no matter how well-controlled, can prevent the transfer of the radioactive contaminants displaced by the wind to the neighboring countries. Those contaminants have already traveled by tens of kilometers away from the contaminated sites.

The environmental problems and health consequences have exacerbated after the invasion of Iraq in 2003, and the country still lacks the potential of immediate and effective required treatment. These factors, among others, have made Iraq unable to tackle alone the thorny and urgent problem of cleaning its environment from the polluted and contaminated remains, or successfully treat the tens of thousands of victim patients, and put an end to the diseases caused by the pollution.

The environmental dangers that remain have caused damage to health of the Iraqi
people and the peoples of the neighboring countries. We encourage President
Obama for an immediate commencement of a campaign to clean up the radioactive
waste of depleted Uranium ammunition from American weapons left in Iraq. And
also ask the President to please consider vacating the stock of such ammunitions
of the US forces stationed in Iraq in order to avoid such disasters in the
future.

Copyright 2009 R. B. STUART, All Rights Reserved. No reproduction of this blog in any form.