VeTALKX: Karshi-Khanabad (K-2) Military Exposures Q&A and 2nd Community Forum

2023-06-05T10:26:15-04:00

Visit our VHA website for additional information on K2 resources:
https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/karshi-khanabad.asp

VA.gov | Veterans Affairs

Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you’ve earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member—like health care, disability, education, and more.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2023 1:25 PM

2023-06-05T13:25:58-04:00

Served at K-2 2003-2004. Retired in 2010. Had colon cancer in 2013. Had surgery and 12 rounds of chemotherapy which left me with multiple medical issues as a result. Absolutely no history of any cancer anywhere in my entire family. Applied twice to VA for disability compensation. Twice turned down. I am told that any GI cancers are now on the listing. Can I apply again and use the PACT act for justification or will the VA stretch this out for decades like the Agent Orange debacle and hope we all pass on before justice is served?

Response by Maj David Hills made Jun 5 at 2023 6:37 PM

2023-06-05T18:37:19-04:00

How long would Toxic Exposures still be detectable by any test?

Response by Maj David Hills made Jun 5 at 2023 6:37 PM

2023-06-05T18:37:54-04:00

How long would Depleted Uranium / exposure to radioactive material still show up in urine after exposure?

Response by COL Douglas Nash made Jun 6 at 2023 8:46 AM

2023-06-06T08:46:03-04:00

I was stationed at K2 from November 2001 - February 2002, lived in Tent City within the "berm." I remember that when it rained, the water usually rose to ankle depth, soaking your boots wherever you went. I remember that when this happened, an oil click always covered the water, which smelled strongly of diesel fuel/JP-4. Some Uzbek soldiers I routinely dealt with said the Soviet Air Force used to dump used POL products at the end of the runway where tent city lay. That was only half of it. The other story I heard from Uzbeks (and repeated by one of the officers on the staff) was that after removing all of the nuclear weapons stored at the base following the dissolution of the USSR (and the Red Air Force), that the Soviets blew up most of the nuclear weapons storage bunkers on site (this would have been between 1991 - 1996). I observed these demolished bunkers with my own eyes when I went out jogging around the air base perimeter. So my question is, aside from the ever-present oil slick in the troop living area, when the nuclear ordnance bunkers were blown up, could they have possibly spread degraded or decayed nuclear material in the soil around the entire air base? Thank you. (for more interesting reading, view the attachment). Read the whole things at https://phc.amedd.army.mil/PHC%20Resource%20Library/U_UZB_Karshi-Khanabad%20POEMS% [login to see] _Public%20Release%20Review.pdf

U_UZB_Karshi-Khanabad%2520POEMS%25202001-2005_Public%2520Release%2520Review.pdf

Response by MSG Agha Durrani made Jun 6 at 2023 10:33 AM

2023-06-06T10:33:01-04:00

Did anyone encounter problems accessing Coordinators? I tried to connect with two listed coordinators via email, one email address was wrong and the other coordinator is out of the country. Can anyone point to a DU/Toxic Exposure lab in the Northern Virginia area? Thanks.

Response by SGT Kristen Oneill made Jun 6 at 2023 10:58 AM

2023-06-06T10:58:40-04:00

Why is DOD withholding the results of the most recent epidemiology study conducted in conjunction with the PACT act? Why are the Yale Law Clinic, the Camp Stronghold Freedom foundation and others currently in litigation with DOD with a FOIA request? Why are you sending out letters to affected service members offering to test Uranium isotopes in Urine when you know that there wont be a trace in either the urine or the serum? Why not do a bone aspiration, or spinal tap if you truly care about our health, as the only place that Uranium would still be found in us is in our livers, kidneys and (most concentrated) in our bones. Seems like you are trying to find new ways to deny us benefits for being poisoned by DOD. Also, why is Fort McClellan not even on your radar?

Response by Col Ronald Wesley made Jun 6 at 2023 1:40 PM

2023-06-06T13:40:34-04:00

Have there been any confirmed cases of illness directly related to toxic exposure at K2

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made Jun 6 at 2023 1:59 PM

2023-06-06T13:59:31-04:00

Good afternoon. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this.

Response by COL Douglas Nash made Jun 7 at 2023 8:36 AM

2023-06-07T08:36:37-04:00

I have also been able to verify using open-source documents recently declassified that state that there was a Soviet tactical nuclear weapons storage site at Karshi-Khanabad until 1992. So we known that there were indeed nukes kept there before US forces arrived.

Response by Capt Christopher Provost made Jun 7 at 2023 8:38 AM

2023-06-07T08:38:48-04:00

I'm failing to understand how a letter dated May 12th from the VA detailing the above Q&A is just reaching me on June 6th. With your choice of snail mail to list 4 hyperlinks, you've chosen to further misdirect the hundreds of fellow men & women who served at this base. We all have emails and you chose not to email us this information, which would have been the fastest method, and allowed the member to click on the hyperlinks if they were entered correctly. Which your Rallypoint was not, it only brings you to the main page, not to this specific page here. I'm not going to repeat the questions already stated below, but await your replies on June 29th. Do better VA.

Response by SFC Wallace Maynard made Jun 8 at 2023 9:40 AM

2023-06-08T09:40:20-04:00

I was with the first group that landed in Usbekistan in 2001. Instructed to setup sleeping areas in the three bunkers at the end of the main runway (tent city came later on). Bunkers immediately created concerns associated with respiratory issues. Lots of animal droppings and very dusty combined with strange odors. We joked about everything being discussed related to long term health issues, shrugged our shoulders, laughed and kept on with the mission. Completely not surprised that here we are now having exposure discussions. Not sure if my health issues are directly associated but we shall see I guess. I have yet to see any discussions about us living in those bunkers and results of the testing that was done that prompted us to move out of them in rapid fashion. What were the test results from inside these bunkers?

Response by Lt Col Jon Fisher made Jun 9 at 2023 6:37 PM

2023-06-09T18:37:15-04:00

I was stationed at K-2 and would like to contribute to the body of information about potential hazards at that airbase. While I was deployed there during my time with the 66 Rescue Squadron, we saw radiation warning signs knocked over all around the perimeter of the base, black goo oozing up out of the ground near the fire department area, and our Hardened Aircraft Shelter which we operated out of had suspicious smells and fluids that we had tested by Bio-Environmental Engineers. They came back right away with indications of chemical weapons, then retracted that a few days later, telling us that they were false positives for "cleaning supplies". How can we get this information into the investigation?

Answering Sgt McKercher: I do not know the number of our HAS, and after they told us it was a false positive, we never got copies of the reports.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2023 9:22 AM

2023-06-13T09:22:23-04:00

I was at K2 in 2004. My friend Michael Farkas was at K2 a year before me and just passed from kidney cancer, it was very fast from diagnosis to death. I would like the VA to figure out what we should be tested for and how often.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2023 2:50 PM

2023-06-13T14:50:28-04:00

My question is what presumptives do we expect to come out of this? I suffer from Parkinson’s, that I will truly believe, manifested from exposures at K2. The Simpsons just didn’t get bad or show for years after. The effects of these types of things are having on us later in life is truly difficult to live with

Response by MSgt Shane Mortimer made Jun 13 at 2023 3:05 PM

2023-06-13T15:05:09-04:00

I was stationed at K2 (USAF) in April of 2002. I remember vividly the ponds of liquid formed within the tent city area anytime it rained. Many puddles never really disappeared and gave that streaks of colors as if it was fuel in water. I ran many times on the track around the broken down MIG/MIGS. Every other day we were told UXO's were present to stay off the track and then the next day it was all set. Also in 2002 I remember we are all told that traces of nerve gas was found present. A few days later we were told the tests were wrong. I could go on and on. Finally I remember taking showers in puddles up to my ankles on a dirt floor. There was a rumor that a contractor from Brown and Root died after being electrified. I have had and still have multiple physical and mental issues. This place was just plain bad for all who were there.

Response by CMSgt David Harris made Jun 13 at 2023 4:07 PM

2023-06-13T16:07:20-04:00

Many of us are still of working age and will not be able to attend the forum. Will it be recorded and placed where we can find it to listen to later?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2023 4:12 PM

2023-06-13T16:12:46-04:00

I arrived at K2 on 8 Oct 01 and departed right after we ended Anaconda. CHPPM came and rested the glowing water area we called “the spooge pit”. Recently saw a positive g of toxic agents found in that testing. I would like to Know what all toxins were found at K2 and if the VA is going to include effects of those toxins as presumptive conditions.

Response by CMSgt David Harris made Jun 13 at 2023 4:14 PM

2023-06-13T16:14:49-04:00

Will these forums be recorded? I am still working full time as a civilian and will probably not be available at the time listed for the forum. I would like to be able to hear what was said and respond later if possible. Thanks

Response by MSgt Dominique Derr made Jun 13 at 2023 4:39 PM

2023-06-13T16:39:24-04:00

Due to the numerous concerns about many 'one off' type cancers showing up in our compatriots, will the VA be increasing the scans/tests/etc for detectable cancers and conditions for all military service folks who registered for the toxic exposure risks and the burn pit registry? Or will it continue to fall to the service member to have to make such requests at the woefully inadequate primary care appointments (if we can even get scheduled for one)

Response by Sgt Ethan Cole made Jun 13 at 2023 5:02 PM

2023-06-13T17:02:46-04:00

I am a K2 vet. I do not feel good, this is everyday.

Why is the land desolate where Camp Stronghold Freedom once stood?

What chemicals are currently in the soil and drainage ponds surrounding K2?

What specific chemical agents were detected that are not listed on the Army’s environmental report on K2?

What is the current radiation level?

How many more K2 Veterans need to die before the list of presumptive conditions will expand to cover all common illnesses amongst K2 Veterans?

How come VA providers don’t know anything about K2 when asked?

Response by SGM James Bilberry made Jun 13 at 2023 5:12 PM

2023-06-13T17:12:16-04:00

When will the VA and the DOD stop playing games with our lives and our health? I’ve been tested for depleted uranium and nothing seemed abnormal. When will they test out bones, kidneys and liver for these trace elements?
I have a Law Judge hearing in July, can I bring up other conditions that were not filed for this hearing or must I refile for these special conditions particularly high blood pressure, sleep apnea, emphysema and others that are listed on the PACT documents that are considered presumptive?
Will we be able to view and listen to the virtual meeting communicating regarding K2? If so please post the link for all Veterans to participate!
Thanks,
James L Bilberry, SGM Ret. US Army

Response by SGT Carla Best made Jun 13 at 2023 5:25 PM

2023-06-13T17:25:48-04:00

I have tried to have an open and frank conversation with my primary care provider regarding the months I spent living in the most toxic Tent City ever: K2. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that his immediate response was “there is no test for cancer, and I don’t deal with C&P for an increase in your disability rating”. Mind you I was blown up in Iraq and lost my stupid leg so I am already at 100% which he is well aware of, so why he assumed I was asking any questions about getting a VA rating in the first place is beyond me. So I will ask my questions here:

1. IF we already have a rating of 100%, and are already enrolled in the VA Healthcare System, do we need to submit a new claim for past cancer diagnosis or will those cancers now be automatically applied to our health records as “Service Related Injuries”? As an example, my cancer diagnosis led to a FULL HYSTERECTOMY at the age of 39. Service related for sure.

2. What happened to ALL the reports that were submitted from the individual NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) NCOIC’s from each Unit? I know a thorough testing, review and written report were completed and submitted by the 659th Maintenance Company, 189th CSB. The NCOIC had us take pictures of everything. Where are these reports?

3. Will be be provided with a FULL and NON-REDACTED Report of all individuals stationed at K2 who have received a diagnosis directly related to their time at K2? All cancers, illnesses, sicknesses, and diseases that service members, contractors and trusted agents have experienced?

4. Clearly the government and all person’s responsible for placing us in harms way KNOW these patterns, and they know we are getting sick. What is to be done about this?

If I sound mad, just know the anger is justified.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Jun 13 at 2023 7:59 PM

2023-06-13T19:59:22-04:00

THANKS FOR SHARING

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2023 8:07 PM

2023-06-13T20:07:33-04:00

Hello, I served at K2 in 2002-2003. Years after I started to develop serious sinusitis and headaches. Are we covered under the most recent congressional legislation?

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2023 8:18 PM

2023-06-13T20:18:42-04:00

I would like to know if there are any links between service at K2 and insomnia.

Response by CCMSgt Shaune Browne made Jun 14 at 2023 8:42 AM

2023-06-14T08:42:53-04:00

I have seen articles on cancer diagnosis, but have there been any studies done on people diagnosed with Auto-immune diseases?

Response by TSgt Jamie Stevenson made Jun 14 at 2023 9:30 PM

2023-06-14T21:30:35-04:00

Served at K2 2002-2003. I currently have severe osteoporosis, reproductive problems, and a rare autoimmune called uticarial vasculitis among other things. Where can I get help to get rated for these things?

Response by SFC Ralph Hefner Babb made Jun 15 at 2023 1:03 AM

2023-06-15T01:03:32-04:00

I did the NBC duties at K2 in 2003. 20 years later I have had two TIAs, an ischemic stroke which led to the discovery of widespread atrophy which is now vascular dementia at age 59. How many others are dealing with neurocognitive disorders that are labeled PTSD? I know what showed up in the testing at K2. My two boys have multiple issues. One has ADHD and dyspraxia the other AdHD, autism and dyslexia. Will there be a study into issues our children have due to exposure?

Response by Sgt Osla McKercher made Jun 15 at 2023 11:12 PM

2023-06-15T23:12:01-04:00

QUESTION 1 of 2: Does the VA acknowledge that K-2 personnel were exposed to very high levels of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals? Are the K-2 Health Risk Assessments being looked at by any organizations?

When I first read the newly-declassified Department of Defense documents regarding the toxins found at Karshi-Khanabad (K-2), everything suddenly made sense. After talking to and reading about so many sick K-2 veterans, I knew radiation and chemical warfare agent exposures didn’t begin to account for their many disparate signs, symptoms, and conditions. After reading the K-2 Health Risk Assessments (HRAs), there it was in black and white: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs).

Even short exposures to small amounts of EDCs can have significant effects on humans. EDCs can have various systemic effects throughout the body which would explain why K-2 veterans have so many different types of illnesses. Exposure to EDCs would also explain the signs and symptoms that many K-2 veterans have in common: low testosterone, low vitamin D (even with supplementation), osteoporosis, poor dental health, etc.

K-2 veterans were exposed to many EDCs, both in the air and the ground. The HRAs show exposure levels that are far beyond maximum safe guidelines. And those are just the ones that *could* be measured. For some of the compounds, once the equipment could detect it, the exposure was already far past the maximum exposure guideline [MEG]. The 2001 Health Risk Assessment states:

“However, for over half the heavy metals sampled and many VOCs, the detection limit was greater than the long-term Air-MEGs. This is a significant uncertainty in the evaluation for long-term health effects from ambient air since it is not possible to know whether sampled concentrations warrant further evaluation. The results from soil gas sampling and personnel complaints (paragraph 4a) suggest that elevated concentrations of VOCs may be a concern if fuel contaminated soil is exposed through excavation.”

“Concerns from long-term exposure to VOCs cannot be confirmed since those chemicals in soil gas exceeding guidelines have Air-MEGs that are significantly less than the detection levels used for the ambient air sampling. This uncertainty needs to be considered in the overall assessment even though it cannot be evaluated in the same way as specific chemicals exceeding the Air-MEGs.”

Amongst all the declassified documents, I’m sure the VA also saw two documents regarding toxic vapors accumulating inside shelters. The first is entitled "Former Soviet Union: Potential Environmental Health Threats at Airbases" and specifically mentions Karshi-Khanabad. The second document, which seems to be a condensed version of the first, appears to have been made to be placed in personnel medical files.

Both documents state, “Volatile organic compounds evaporating from soil and groundwater may accumulate in the air inside tents or buildings over contaminated areas. Individuals working in polluted, confined, and poorly ventilated areas, such as excavated trenches, may be exposed to high levels of volatile organic vapors….Deployed personnel probably face the greatest threat from breathing volatile organic compounds, particularly in confined, unventilated spaces.”

K-2 personnel slept and worked in tents and other temporary structures which trapped the gases of the volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds as they rose from the soil. These gases are heavier than air so they displaced the oxygen near the ground in the enclosed spaces where K-2 personnel slept or worked. Instead of oxygen, they breathed toxic fumes all night long.

K-2 personnel were exposed to the following additional EDCs at K-2:

1. Bisphenol A (BPA)
The assessments state that the main drinking water source for K-2 personnel was bottled water flown from Tashkent, Uzbekistan. During the early 2000’s, the plastic in water bottles contained bisphenol A (BPA), a very harmful endocrine disruptor even in small amounts. The longer the water sat in the bottles, the more BPA was leached from the bottles to the water. This leaching process accelerated as the temperature of the bottled water increased. Personnel ingested huge amounts of this EDC every day. BPA is a particularly potent EDC, even in very small amounts.

2. Burn Pits and Burn Barrels
Burn barrels and pits were used the entire time K-2 was in operation. The 2004 Health Risk Assessment states that when the assessment team arrived, “several fires were noted on the other side of the perimeter fence from the Ammunition Supply Point. The ambient winds were blowing the smoke from the fires over the [Ammunition Supply Point]…” Burn barrels were also used inside the base perimeter to burn sensitive documents that could not be taken under possession by foreign nationals or uncleared US personnel. According to K-2 veterans, these burn barrels were often used in very close proximity to work-spaces.

3. Arsenic (and Hexavalent Chromium)
Chromated copper arsenate (CCA)-impregnated plywood, a known carcinogen, was sent to K-2 where personnel built so many things with it. CCA-impregnated plywood releases arsenic and continues to do so for many years. Wet CCA-impregnated plywood emits approximately three times as much arsenic as dry plywood. The 2002 Environmental Assessment of the Hardened Aircraft Shelters shows a stack of CCA-impregnated plywood and the very high level of arsenic that it emitted.

4. Insecticides/Pesticides
Uniforms were soaked in Permethrin and personnel sprayed it on themselves continuously. Pesticides were sprayed onto the base of the canvas tents where personnel slept just inches away. Trucks drove around camp spraying a heavy fog of insecticide into the air. Canister-based pesticide foggers were sprayed in enclosed areas such as the airplanes that arrived at and departed from K-2.

5. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Many military personnel ate Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs) during their time at K-2. The plastic of the MRE packaging was manufactured with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) which are known EDCs (use of this EDC in MREs was banned in 2021).

QUESTION 2 of 2: Does the VA assume safety assessments in the K-2 Health Risk Assessments (HRAs) are valid?

The safety assessments of the Health Risk Assessments (HRAs) should be considered questionable since the safety assessments of the HRAs are based on mitigation protocols that were implemented on a very limited basis or not at all:

1. K-2 veterans testify they were never warned of any health risks.

2. They also testify that no gear, to include masks, Tyvek suits, etc., was provided, nor did they know they should be using protective gear.

3. K-2 veterans testify the “No Dig Order” was not communicated nor enforced. They dug in the toxic soil to fill sandbags and create trenches around their work and living/sleeping spaces in an effort to mitigate flooding. They also state that they constructed and graded the area manually with no protective gear.

4. While the toxic soil of the berm (and other areas) was indeed covered by clean soil, this “cap liner” of clean soil was immediately eroded by wind and rain (as stated in one HRA) and as witnessed by K-2 personnel. This allowed strong winds to blow toxic soil throughout the base and allowed rain to wash toxic soil into the Stronghold.

In addition, safety assessments did not take into account unexpected circumstances (nor were they adequately addressed in subsequent HRAs):

1. “Bowl Effect”
The Bowl Effect was inadvertently created when the existing berm was extended around the entire camp. The Stronghold was flooded, for months, with several inches of water that smelled of fuel and sulfur and had an oily sheen. This allowed toxins from the soil in one area of the camp to be carried throughout the camp, and, as stated in one HRA, it washed away any protective layers of soil that had been previously put in place. Personnel dug trenches and placed sandbags around their work and sleeping spaces. These trenches exposed subsurface toxins that floodwaters were able to circulate into the living and sleeping spaces of K-2 personnel (K-2 veterans testify, and photographic evidence shows, that the sandbags stayed in place long after flood waters abated and that the coverings of the sandbags disintegrated, allowing toxic soil, which had been dug from contaminated subsurface layers, to blow freely about the base).

2. Intact Subsurface Clay Layer
In the HRAs, the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine (USACHPPM) found evidence of a subsurface clay layer at various locations at K-2, and declared that, along with a layer of clean-fill on top of the soil, this subsurface clay layer would prevent any upward migration of subsurface gases. However, as USACHPPM noted in later Health Risk Assessments (and as K-2 veterans testify), that top layer of clean-fill quickly eroded with wind and rain, exposing toxic soil. As K-2 veterans testify, puddles of “black goo” migrated upward through the soil at random times and in random places (toxic gases from volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds also migrate upwards as well).

There is no evidence the clay soil was a solid layer or even present at all locations of Camp Stronghold Freedom. Particularly in dry, arid climates, clay soils can crack. With the continual construction, digging, and heavy equipment present at K-2, this clay soil layer was very likely disrupted or even destroyed in various locations (a portion of it was certainly destroyed when two missiles exploded in 1993). Because sub-surface liquids and gases migrate horizontally as well as vertically, toxic liquids and gases can travel quite far before finding a vertical outlet.

I’m assuming that the VA is simply not yet saying anything about the EDCs or the Health Risk Assessments because the VA is going to wait until studies have been done. That’s a long time for sick and dying veterans to wait.

Response by LTC Daniel Cypher made Jun 16 at 2023 10:58 AM

2023-06-16T10:58:43-04:00

Exposure to two or more chemicals at one time can result in health effects that are greater than the sum of the effects of the individual chemicals, this is referred to as synergism. Has research been conducted on the potential synergistic effects of the 392 unique chemicals found at K2 on the health of K2 veterans? Have all the chemicals found at K2 and their exposure levels been declassified?

Response by TSgt James Bucknell made Jun 16 at 2023 11:49 AM

2023-06-16T11:49:11-04:00

Was at K2 October 2004- January 2005 I have not seen a list of toxic substances that were there. I was going to get the urine test but after reading I’ll pass when mine comes back negative it will be used against me WE ALL know that. Thank you for the information keep fighting! EVERYONE

Response by 1st Lt Daryl Riddle made Jun 16 at 2023 1:11 PM

2023-06-16T13:11:50-04:00

I am a surviving spouse of a K2 AF veteran who passed away 3 years ago due to pancreatic, liver, lung and brain cancer which was recognized as related to Toxic Exposure. I was an AF Reserve Flight Nurse and am currently volunteering with the Stronghold Freedom Foundation(SFF) who are fighting for all K2 veterans and their families to be taken care and to be heard.

Response by SGT Carla Best made Jun 16 at 2023 1:57 PM

2023-06-16T13:57:14-04:00

Second round of questions:

5. Since the VA clearly has a list of names of the veterans who served at K2, why haven’t the Primary Care Providers of those who are already enrolled in the VA been sent letters describing the exposure events, testing results, and reports about K2? We go to our doctors to discuss our exposure concerns about K2, most have ZERO CLUE what we are talking about. Shouldn’t these individuals be briefed at least?

6. Will there be files released during the June 29th briefing that we, or more specifically the SFF, have NOT been given access to previously?

7. Will we be provided with any files, documents, reports, test results, and/or pictures prior to the June 29th briefing?

8. Going forward, what plans are in place to bring the ENTIRE VA POPULATION up to date on EVERYTHING that has happened to K2 Veterans?

9. How many K2 Veterans lost their sexual reproductive health and at what percentage? (Partial hysterectomy, full hysterectomy, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and any other complications I have not listed)

Response by 1st Lt Daryl Riddle made Jun 16 at 2023 9:02 PM

2023-06-16T21:02:05-04:00

1.Can evaluations at the war related Illness and Injury Study Center be made available for all K2 vets with chronic, undiagnosed illnesses?

2.How would these chemicals affect our kids genetics and could these chemicals play a part in mental health/personality disorders? What kind of testing would determine this could be a root cause to these issues? Could any of these chemicals play a part in testosterone, hormone and testicular issues in Men?

3.Is there a timeline for neurological issues to be added to the list and covered?

Response by 1st Lt Daryl Riddle made Jun 17 at 2023 4:29 PM

2023-06-17T16:29:55-04:00

Just through SFF, we have 6 documented cases of Multiple Myeloma. Why is this not being covered as a presumptive cancer? Out of 15,777 veterans , this number alone is way too high for a rare cancer. The stats are 5 out of 100,000 in the nation.

Response by 1st Lt Daryl Riddle made Jun 17 at 2023 4:44 PM

2023-06-17T16:44:15-04:00

What we need to see added as presumptives are:
1. Neurological Disorders to include ALS, MS, Essential Tremors, ataxia
2. Immune Dysregulation Disorders to include Autoimmune, Immune Suppression, Allergic Diseases, Inflammatory Diseases
3.Hematological Disorders to include Multiple Myeloma, MGUS(monoclonal gammopathy), polycythemia vera, thrombocytosis
These are the holes in the PACT Act that we are seeing with our veterans.

Response by MSgt David Justiss made Jun 17 at 2023 5:20 PM

2023-06-17T17:20:02-04:00

Served at k2 3 different times between 2001 and 2003. I am currently rated at 100% through the VA. After my deployments to k2 I developed small bumps on my hands and feet. I have seen a dermatologist but they wrote it off as generic skin condition. I am concerned that they showed up only after my k2 deployments. I have also started the process for evaluating tremors that I have developed and that are getting worse. While at k2 when I was 30 I came down with shingles which at that age is very unusual. My question is what do I do to connect these issues I am having to my time at k2 and what tests should I be asking for to help diagnose any issues? I was with AFSOC when deployed to k2 and know about one of our pilots that passed due to cancer that became fatal very quickly.

Response by SGT Andrew Rodarte made Jun 17 at 2023 8:28 PM

2023-06-17T20:28:02-04:00

What was in the mud when it rained, it was slick and oily. I was there from 2002 to 2003. And what made " Skittle" pond change colors?

Response by SFC J. Dirk S. made Jun 3 at 2024 8:22 PM

2024-06-03T20:22:30-04:00

Is there a difference in the first Cohort in 2001 and follow on groups in the variety of diseases and morbidity for the groups? I was in 1-87IN 10th Mtn there in 2001.

Response by SFC Matthew Nicholls made Jun 11 at 2024 4:48 PM

2024-06-11T16:48:27-04:00

Evidence of enriched uranium exposure has been presented to the Secretary of the VA and the DOD, will the VA stop investigating depleted uranium exposure and now address the enriched uranium and other toxic exposures ailments and deaths that are documented from K2?

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2024 10:29 PM

2024-06-11T22:29:35-04:00

I would like to attend this presentation, i was there.

Response by SSgt Joshua Isley made Jun 12 at 2024 11:20 AM

2024-06-12T11:20:08-04:00

I was there 03-04, lived in tent city for a month or 2. A good friend that was there with me passed away from Colon Cancer 2 years after getting back from there. I've had GI issues since that deployment. I've been out going on 13 years, and still have them to this day. I've indicated to several doctors that was when the issues first started. Anyone else have GI issues that started after K2?

Response by MSgt David Justiss made Jun 17 at 2024 3:21 PM

2024-06-17T15:21:13-04:00

During the first online Q&A about K2 a gentleman chimed in and spoke about how he was directly responsible for taking the samples on K2 and that there was in fact yellow cake Uranium on site. He was quickly disconnected from the forum. Are any of your findings on K2 including all classified information gathered over the years? Can this inquiry even request classified info for this?

Response by 1st Lt Daryl Riddle made Jun 19 at 2024 11:00 AM

2024-06-19T11:00:26-04:00

Many of the K2 veterans have chronic, undiagnosed illnesses. Several have been evaluated at the WRIISC and were told that they would like to see more K2 veterans. How can we get the message to the VA practitioners to refer these multisymptomatic, chronic and undiagnosed illnesses to the various WRIISC sites?

Response by SFC Robert LaCob made Jun 21 at 2024 12:49 PM

2024-06-21T12:49:32-04:00

VA granted me presumptive associated with my Lymphoma, and I also lost my left kidney due to a large tumor growing on top of it, which was 3 years after returning from K2. No disability was offered. Can I refile another supplemental claim to get higher disability/compensation?

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Jun 24 at 2024 11:31 AM

2024-06-24T11:31:41-04:00

I was at K-2, back in 2004. Worked at the ASP former Soviet aircraft hangers. The VA told me when I got back, nothing is covered. What has changed since then?

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 24 at 2024 5:17 PM

2024-06-24T17:17:40-04:00

Seven weeks ago
The VA Secretary was directly given irrefutable proof by first person account that enriched uranium was found in the soil at K2. Why has the VA not updated the K2 data with that information. You do NOT have to wait for any admission from the DoD to that. Your standard of care is “More likely than not”. It’s time to live up to that and give ALL K2 vet the care they need.

Response by SrA Marcus Williams made Jun 25 at 2024 10:55 AM

2024-06-25T10:55:11-04:00

How many people on here were on the K2 Community Forum event last year? After that event I honestly don't know what to expect during today's event. Good luck to all!

Response by SMSgt Bob Angeli made Jun 25 at 2024 11:57 AM

2024-06-25T11:57:07-04:00

I was asked to post this input during the 6/18 K2 Community Forum. My understanding is during the mark-up period of the original PACT Act, neurological conditions were included but eventually stripped out of the bill. As we have learned there are many K2 veterans experiencing neurological issues so is the VA working with Congress to get neurological issues included in the PACT Act or is the VA relying on military organizations such as Stronghold Freedom to do the heavy lifting with Congress? If neurological issues are eventually included with there be a window for those veteran suffering from those neurological issues to register for the PACT act and backdated to the original period as those who initially applied? I believe there are many veterans that didn't register initially since neurological issues were not included as like the PACT Act "didn't apply to me" then but now it does

Response by CPT Eric Lord made Jun 25 at 2024 1:50 PM

2024-06-25T13:50:51-04:00

I and my unit, 351st OD CO DET, were deployed to K2 and operated and improved the K2 Ammunition Supply Point (ASP) for 8 consecutive months from Sep 2002 thru Apr 2003. The ASP was located at the SW corner of the base past the PT track and immediately adjacent to the southern end of the cluster of Hardened Aircraft Structures (HAS) area that was fenced off and signed “Danger Keep Out- Chemical Agents and Unexploded Ordnance Area”. The ASP contained the southern most 2 HAS structures, of the 8 total HAS structures, in that area- 6 of which were contained in the fenced off ‘danger’ area. Evidently, the contamination stopped in between the 6th and 7th HAS structures and everything south of the 6th HAS was safe for ASP operations. Additionally, the ASP was located less than 200 yards from the continuously operated Burn Pit on the other side of the west wall from the ASP.

However, on the contrary, once our unit arrived at K2 our secondary mission was to get the ASP up to DDESB standards which involved continuous excavation of the entire ASP site for almost he entirety of our deployment to K2. Additionally, unit personnel where directly involved with excavation, hand digging, and construction improvements to one of the dilapidated/destroyed HAS structures to be able to enclose the structure to enable the storage of sensitive ammo/items.
During the ASP excavation, countless, suspicious items and/or vials containing unknown liquids were discovered and turned into safety and we were never told what those items were or what they contained (see photos provided). Not to mention the unknown and inconceivable amount of these items that were destroyed, crushed, and strewn throughout the ASP site during excavation operations for 8 consecutive months. The 351st OD CO personnel where exposed to these toxic exposures in the ASP vicinity on a daily basis not to mention toxic exposures in the remainder of K2 and Tent City.

The list of toxins at K2 continues to grow and after spending 8 consecutive months there operating a part of K2 that was under ‘excavation’ almost that entire time; immediately adjacent to a ‘known K2 contaminated site’; constantly unearthing vials of unknowns; and barely 200 yards from the ‘burn-pit’; I am convinced that the health conditions of myself and other unit personnel that I know of are directly contributable to the site conditions and toxic exposures of K2.

I want to share my personal health conditions and diagnoses, since K2 deployment, to increase the awareness of what those of us deployed to K2 are experiencing, as well as, let others that were there know the symptoms and illnesses that are being developed in others. Personally, I went from a totally super-healthy condition prior to K2 deployment (never had a primary physician) to developing allergies almost immediately after deployment to the point that we had a cat prior to deployment to having to give up the cat very shortly after deployment. Then developing asthma. Then developing psoriatic arthritis to the point that I had psoriasis from my ankles to my forehead covering approximately 40 of my body as well as arthritis with fingers and toes that no longer bend. Then developing cataracts at 48. Then, most recently, developing years of experience with severe ulcerative colitis / diverticulitis / and IBD symptoms which just resulted in a colostomy that likely won’t be reversed. Most of my illnesses seem to be autoimmune system related and characterized by the VA as “Known Clinical Diagnoses”.

I have not been able to be in contact with many of the personnel from our detachment that was deployed to K2 but, I am aware of one individual that has survived testicular cancer.

Summarizing here: The VA’s view of illnesses ‘basically’ fall into 2 categories
1- ‘Known Clinical Diagnoses’: must fall under PACT ACT illnesses and occur a max. of 365 days from date of discharge, OR;

2- - “Unknown, undiagnosed, or medically unexplained”: The Gulf War Syndrome illnesses fall under the ‘medically unexplained chronic multisymptom illness’ which is basically a bunch of ‘syndromes’, ‘disorders’, etc. that can’t be a conclusive diagnosis or a “Known Clinical Diagnosis” and has a NLT development date of 31 DEC 2026.

Just to name a few toxins on the VA’s list of known toxins above acceptable levels:
- Benzene: changes levels of blood antibodies and white blood cells.
- Copper: reduced antibodies.
- Naphthalene: to my knowledge, known to cause cataracts.
Among many things, Naphthalene is a biproduct of spent fuels (gas, diesel, jet fuel, etc. all of which were used in burn pits as accelerants)
- Radioactive Depleted Uranium… the list goes on…

Questions:
1. Wouldn’t or couldn’t these toxic exposures cause “Known Clinical Diagnoses”?

2. When will the VA add or expand more ‘Known Clinical Diagnoses’ to the PACT ACT presumptive illnesses list to include “known” serious autoimmune system illnesses in addition to the existing cancers and respiratory illnesses currently on the presumptive list?
Example. Gastro Cancer is on the list. But, it will be very difficult to develop Gastro Cancer when you no longer have a colon?!

3. Regarding the soldier I mentioned above that survived testicular cancer. VA told him it ‘was’ service-connected, zero disability, and thank you for your service. When will the VA own this and support it’s veteran’s so that they can have meaningful discussions with their medical providers about what they were exposed to as well as assist with financial support to help relieve the very heavy burden of future medical expenses OR more importantly the tens of thousands in medical fees already incurred?

In my appeal to the VA, I / we may have numerous ‘known clinical diagnoses’ but collectively something that we were exposed to, in our case- for 8 consecutive months, or a collection of toxic exposures, may have altered or effected our immune systems to contribute to the development of these “Known Clinical Diagnoses / Illnesses”. Additionally, we are all different and react differently to toxic exposures and other various illness exposures and to have a 365 day max. limit after discharge is absurd for non-presumptive illnesses.

As study results and evaluation findings, one after another, are being debunked- Now is the time to stop hiding behind smoke and mirrors, own up to this, and take care of your veterans!

Response by TSgt David Hartford made Jun 25 at 2024 2:07 PM

2024-06-25T14:07:18-04:00

Has medical data been attempted to be retrieved from the local Uzbek community/government?

Response by Lt Col Terri Z made Jun 25 at 2024 2:23 PM

2024-06-25T14:23:59-04:00

I’ve had difficulty scheduling a K2 depleted uranium test in Maryland. Is there a goid website to schedule such a test? -Thank you!

Response by Capt Timothy Cox made Jun 25 at 2024 2:29 PM

2024-06-25T14:29:41-04:00

During my C&P exam, I was informed of the existence of our "Individual Longitudinal Exposure Reports" (ILERs). I was denied direct access to the ILER but she read an excerpt saying that I had been exposed at K2, and was mistakenly told that we were exposed to mustard gas residue, with no other exposures. I have had memory and confusion issues for years and have finally been seen by a neurologist who said I was fine because I didn't have dimensia. He also said he couldn't do anything else because he had to wait for the VA to tell him something else about us (Likely side effects t of exposures). Why hasn't this information been updated I our re words so we can get basic treatment?

Response by SFC Matthew Nicholls made Jun 25 at 2024 2:35 PM

2024-06-25T14:35:10-04:00

Why are Dr. Culpepper, the VA, and DoD continuing to deny that enriched uranium was what my team found in 2001? I provided concrete evidence to Secretary McDonough, Catherine Herridge, and Jon Stewart. I will continue to provide the evidence (pictures, reports, medical records) to refute the claim that only DU was found. The interim CHPPM-UER report states enriched uranium, the lab reports show radioactivity above background levels and greater, asbestos, chemical contamination, gross jet fuel contamination, respirable dust (particulate matter 10 microns and below). Bottlom line, K2 was an environmental disaster.

Response by LTC Jean-Paul Lagoueyte made Jun 25 at 2024 2:35 PM

2024-06-25T14:35:58-04:00

I was deployed to K2 from DEC2001 to JUN2002 as the Liaison Officer. I had a unique experience in that my duties (CI officer, assistant security officer, civilian personnel officer, liaison to host nation) took me to all parts of K2. Question is, is there a POC to talk to about some of the observations I personally witnessed regarding exposure while deployed to K2?

Response by 1SG Mike B made Jun 25 at 2024 2:40 PM

2024-06-25T14:40:45-04:00

As far as the Ammo Dump being put off limits in 2001 so it’s not being included, PLEASE remember Soldiers ie.. MP’s Patrolled and enforced the off limits, and in the early days we actually had dug in fighting positions for our vehicles outside of the berms and around the old ASP!

Response by TSgt Charles Orear made Jun 25 at 2024 3:04 PM

2024-06-25T15:04:45-04:00

Has anyone else had issues not getting requested medical records or replies from VA for moving forward on VA claims. I requested and applied over a year ago NOTHING. No calls no medical records followed the request process and faxed and mailed a request as directed. Big goose egg and here we are coining up on the deadline for application and back pay.

Response by SGT Timothy Burow made Jun 25 at 2024 3:05 PM

2024-06-25T15:05:48-04:00

I have Neurological issues that have gone unresolved, undiagnosed due to VA politics till recently. Tests and more tests that only result in shoulder shrugs from doctors and no path forward. Eventually, just recently I got a diagnosis of fibromyalgia after a mix of positive/negative lupus tests. I feel kinda like this was a “we give up” answer from the VA. I’m an engineer and this isn’t something I can accept. What is being done for advanced studies? Alternant or advanced treatments? New technologies? Military and sporting orgs used to be the leaders in tech and innovation. VA seems to be 2 decades behind. I found a new technology non-invasive treatment that works for me but it’s costly and not sustainable.

Response by CMSgt Nicole Duckwall made Jun 25 at 2024 4:27 PM

2024-06-25T16:27:34-04:00

The last Speaker stopped short of saying those activated, instead, he said those deployed to K2. My question is does the 15,035 total veterans that are on the K2 master roster include guard and reserve personnel? The first speaker eluded to a 2012 study of active duty only regarding the K2 surveillance program.