It only took 56 years to get the PACT Act, the acronym for Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins, to address disability claims by veterans who have suffered as a result of exposure to burn pits, radioactive materials, and other toxins encountered during active duty service.
For some of the 1400 soldiers exposed to radiation as a result of the 1966 Palomares incident resulting in servicemen cleaning up radioactive materials without gloves or masks, this law is too late; many having since died. And although PACT is supposed to provide medical care for Palomares veterans still alive, only 21 cancers and a narrow list of other illnesses are included, still excluding many veterans.
Victor Sklaar is one of those whom the VA has refused to treat for his cancers, and this past week the Supreme Court turned away his appeal without comment. We need Jon Stewart to bring attention to this issue as he has for many others in the past.
Prayer for the Day
When the road seems endless, O God, empower us to be companions.
Enabling us to unblock the road forward with creative responses
When the road before us divides, may we hear your voice for the way,
Empowering us to move beyond the barriers we see.
Source of power, inspiration and all true gifts,
We pray for your Spirit and Presence this day to do justice.
In the name of the One who calls us to your justice,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
The PACT Act will finally extend presumptive service connection to Palomares veterans who have developed any one of 21 cancers and other illnesses long recognized by VA to be radiogenic. However, Palomares veterans who have developed other radiation-related illnesses will continue fighting for their benefits.
- Caroline Markowitz, Yale Law School Veterans Clinic, representing veterans
After needless and shameful delay, the tireless advocacy of our veterans and groups like the Yale Veterans Legal Services Clinic, made this victory possible.
- Richard Blumenthal, U.S. Senator CT, sponsor of the PACT Act
Answer me when I call, O God of my right!
You gave me room when I was in distress,
Be gracious to me and hear my prayer.
Psalm 4: 1