Australian veterans who served alongside U.S. troops in Afghanistan say their health has been severely impacted by exposure to toxic burn pits. However, the Australian government has yet to officially acknowledge a direct link between these illnesses and military service.

The Issue at Hand

Burn pits were commonly used at U.S. military bases in Iraq and Afghanistan to dispose of various waste materials, releasing toxic fumes into the air. Exposure to these fumes has been associated with serious health conditions, including respiratory diseases and cancer.

While the U.S. government now presumes certain illnesses are service-related for veterans who were exposed to burn pits, Australia has yet to adopt a similar policy. This leaves many Australian veterans struggling to have their conditions recognized as service-related.

A Veteran’s Struggle

Brett Green, a former Australian Army soldier diagnosed with brain cancer, is one of those affected. Despite his documented exposure to burn pits during his deployment, his claim for military-related compensation has been denied.

His wife, Amber Green, expressed frustration over the lack of acknowledgment.

“I mean, from a child, I was told don’t burn plastic, right? It’s common knowledge,” she said, emphasizing the known dangers of toxic fumes.

Why It Matters

The long-term health effects of burn pit exposure remain a major concern for veterans, particularly those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. While scientific studies continue, establishing a direct causation between specific diseases and exposure remains a challenge. Many conditions take years to develop, further complicating efforts to secure recognition and support.

As the debate over compensation and acknowledgment continues, veterans in both Australia and the United States are left grappling with the consequences of their exposure—often without the support they need.

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