A recent class action lawsuit victory requires the U.S. Army to provide medical care to veterans who served as volunteers during research involving chemical and biological testing between 1942 and 1975. As many as 60,000 veterans volunteered for medical research in order to contribute to the advancement of the U.S. Biological and Chemical Programs. The Army will assist veterans in obtaining medical care through military medical treatment facilities, VA facilities and private providers, as appropriate. A notification letter has been mailed to veterans who were identified as possible participants in the medical program, but the Army is actively seeking others who may have been participants. You can get additional information and eligibility requirements by calling (800) 984-8523.
Online Exchange Shopping Begins
Beginning Veterans Day, millions of honorably discharged veterans were permitted to shop online at all four military exchanges, but you still have to verify your eligibility with VetVerify.org. Log in to the Army and Air Force Exchange Service, Navy Exchange, Marine Corps Exchange and Coast Guard Exchange websites at, respectively, shopmyexchange.com, mynavyexchange.com, mymcx.com and shopcgx.com.
World War I Memorial Groundbreaking
The WWI Centennial Commission hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking Thursday at Pershing Park, which is a block away from the White House. Participating was VFW National Commander Keith Harman, who said though “that generation’s voice is now quiet, their memories will live on through this new memorial, which the VFW is proud to support both in spirit and financially.
POW/MIA Update
Navy Steward’s Mate 1st Class Cyril I. Dusset, 21, of New Orleans, La., whose identification was previously announced, was buried Nov. 9 in Slidell, La.
Army Sgt. Richard G. Sowell, 21, of West Palm Beach, Fla., whose identification was previously announced, was buried Nov. 10 in his hometown.
Army Technician 4th Grade Pete M. Counter, 24, of Detroit, whose identification was previously announced, was buried Nov. 11 in Onaway, Mich.
Army Cpl. Donald L. Baer, 20, of Racine, Wis., whose identification was previously announced, was buried Nov. 11 in his hometown.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Richard G. Cushman, 18, of Springville, Utah, whose identification was previously announced, was buried Nov. 11 in Cypress, Calif.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Harry E. Harkness was assigned to Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. Interment services are pending.
Till next week, praying for all veterans.
– Charles Castelluccio
