GREENFIELD — Veterans who may have health issues due to exposures during their service are urged to attend an informational session at Greenfield Community College June 13.
“Exposures to Military Hazards,” sponsored by GCC and Upper Pioneer Valley Veterans’ Services, will provide information on what services are available to veterans who suffer from ailments due to exposure to military hazards.
According to Tim Niejadlik, veterans’ services director, many veterans are unaware what maladies are caused by service time exposure and what help is available through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
“The VA considers just about anything that happens to you in military service as exposure,” Niejadlik said.
Ailments range from hearing disorders to several different cancers and upper respiratory disorders, Niejadlik said.
Niejadlik said sources of exposure have included loud noises from military machinery, Agent Orange during the Vietnam War, contaminated drinking water at sites like Camp Lejeune in North Carolina and oil fires during Operation Desert Storm.
Assistance for veterans with ailments from service include monthly compensation and reduced or free treatment through the VA.
The event begins at 6 p.m. at GCC’s dining commons.
You can reach Dan Desrochers at:
ddesrochers@recorder.com
413-772-0261, ext. 257