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Margaret “Maggie” Williams' Subject Files
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Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001a. letter
To Dr. Diana Zuckerman from veteran re: health (1 page)
06/11/95
b(6)
001b. letter
To J. Derrick from veteran re: health (2 pages)
06/11/95
b(6)
002. report
Medical records of veteran (13 pages)
05/05/95
b(6)
003a. letter
To Mr. & Mrs. Clinton from veteran (partial p. 4) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
003b. note
To The President from veteran re: consent (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
004. report
Medical records of veteran (20 pages)
07/17/95
b(6)
005. form
Re: Hardship Cases (partial) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
006a. letter
To The First Lady from veteran re: health (2 pages)
03/20/95
b(6)
006b. memo
To V.A. Claims Office from C. Jackson M.D. re: veteran (partial) (1
10/27/95
b(6)
page)
007. report
Re: veteran with psychiatric problems (partial) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
008. letter
To Dr. Zuckerman from veteran and wife (partial) (1 page)
04/21/95
b(6)
009a. letter
To Ms. Zuckerem [sic] from veteran re: health (partial) (2 pages)
03/23/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)|
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)|
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA|
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA|
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRA|
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA|
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
009b. form
Authorization for Release of Information (VA Form 21-4142)
05/01/95
b(6)
(partial) (1 page)
010. note
Re: veteran's letter (partial) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
011a. fax
To Hillary Clinton (partial) (1 page)
02/23/95
b(6)
011b. letter
To Whom It May Concern from veteran's wife (partial p. 1) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
PI National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA|
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA|
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Decesion
No
MRS. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON
FIRST LADY
OLD EXECUTIVE BUILDING
THE WHITE HOUSE
WILLIAM R BARBER
633 S. GEARY ST.
MT. PLEASANT, PA 15666
DEAR FIRST LADY:
I HAVE BEEN READING IN THE MEDIA ABOUT THE CONCERN AND SUPPORT
THAT YOU HAVE BEEN GIVING TO THE PERSIAN GULF VETERANS AND THEIR
FAMILIES SUFFERING WITH HEALTH PROBLEMS. WE IN THE VETERAN
COMMUNITY FEEL THIS IS VERY PATRIOTIC AND HIGHLY COMMENDABLE THAT
YOU ARE HELPING TO ADDRESS THESE PROBLEMS.
MY REQUEST IS ALSO A PROBLEM OF HEALTH TO VETERANS AND THEIR
FAMILIES. THE VETERAN COMMUNITY IS ASKING IF YOU MRS. HILARY
RODMAN CLINTON WOULD BECOME INVOLVED WITH THE VIETNAM VETERAN. WE
ARE STILL SUFFERING HEALTH PROBLEMS DUE TO EXPOSURE FROM AGENT
ORANGE DECADES AFTER THE WAR.
1, JUNE 1995 A MARCH IN WASHINGTON D.C. WILL TAKE PLACE FOR
AGENT ORANGE VICTIMS. WE WILL ASSEMBLE AT THE REFLECTING POOL FOR
AN ADDRESS TO THE BODY AT 10:00 A.M. AND WE WILL ASSEMBLE AND WALK
TO THE VIETNAM MEMORIAL AT 1:00 PM. A SHORT SERVICE WILL TAKE
PLACE IN MEMORY OF OUR FALLEN BROTHERS AND SISTERS.
THE MARCH WAS STARTED AND COORDINATED BY FOUR VIETNAM
VETERANS: BILL BARBER FROM PA, TOM JOYCE FROM VT, BOBBY DODD FROM
TN, AND RODNEY TYLER FROM N.C. WE WILL MEET WITH SEVERAL MEMBERS
OF THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES THE DAY PRIOR TO THE
MARCH. THESE MEETINGS ARE TO HELP BRING ATTENTION TO OUR HEALTH
PROBLEMS DUE TO AGENT ORANGE POISONING.
WE WOULD BE HONORED AND APPRECIATIVE IF YOU COULD PLEASE FIND
A BRIEF AMOUNT OF TIME IN YOUR BUSY SCHEDULE TO MEET WITH US
SOMETIME PRIOR TO THE MARCH. THE DATE OF THE MARCH IS 1, JUNE
1995. WE WILL ARRIVE IN WASHINGTON AROUND 3:00 PM ON 29, MAY 1995.
I AM ENCLOSING A LETTER DRAFTED TO PRESIDENT CLINTON ALSO WITH
EXPECTATIONS OF RECEIVING A MEETING. THANK YOU FOR ANY
CONSIDERATION THAT YOU WILL GIVE US.
SINCERELY YOURS,
Bill Barber
BILL BARBER
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001a. letter
To Dr. Diana Zuckerman from veteran re: health (1 page)
06/11/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)|
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA|
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
11 June 1995
(b)(6)
Doctor Diana Zuckerman
[0010]
Office of the First Lady
Old Executive Office Building, Suite 100
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Doctor Zuckerman:
In my 16 May 1995 letter, I wrote you concerning my medical problems associated
with Gulf War Syndrome arising from Gulf War service while stationed in the Middle
East. At that time, I forwarded a packet for review by the Presidential Advisory
Committee investigating the Gulf War Syndrome.
Since my last writing, I have been examined by my family physician and an
independent infectious disease specialist concerning my medical problems. On 9
June 1995, I was positively diagnosed as having "late stage" Lyme Disease. I
attach, for your information, a self-explanatory letter (with enclosures) forwarded to the
Veterans Administration this date.
I would be pleased if this additional information would be included in the packet I
forwarded to you on 16 May 1995. I believe the original packet, supplemented with
this information, certainly documents some errors made by both the Army and the
Veterans Administration, along the way, in diagnosing my medical problems. It could
very well be that this information represents the "light at the end of the tunnel" that
explains why so many other Gulf War veterans are having such a difficult time with
getting a "concrete" diagnosis for their medical problems.
As always, I may be contacted at the address/ phone number listed above if
additional information is required or the committee desires to speak with me.
Your kind assistance in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
(b)(6)
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001b. letter
To J. Derrick from veteran re: health (2 pages)
06/11/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
PI National Security Classified Information |(a)(I) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA|
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA|
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
11 June 1995
(b)(6)
J. Derrick, Adjudication Officer
[0016]
Department of Veterans Affairs (Regional Office)
P.O. Box 8079
Philadelphia, PA 19101
Dear J. Derrick:
I am writing to provide supplemental information concerning my claim for benefits as a
result of service-connected disability.
On 16 May 1995, I had a follow-up physical examination by Doctor George E. Way,
family physician. At that time, he went over the lab results of tests (copies attached at
Enclosures 1, 2 & 3). Findings of those tests included questionable Lyme Antibodies
(tested .9), reactive Hepatitis A Antibodies, an extremely high Epstein-Barr panel
(quantitative IGG and antibodies titer), slightly low Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT),
slightly high Glycohemoglobin (AIC) and problems with Cholesterol. These represent
new medical findings not found by VA during a complete medical examination and
blood/urine work-up at the VA Medical Center, Martinsburg in February-March 1995.
Following my examination and lab reports, Dr. Way referred me to Doctor Dino
Delaportis, Infectious Disease Specialist for further consultation and diagnosis (copy of
referral at Enclosure 4). On 24 May 1995, I had an initial consult with Dr. Delaportis
regarding my reported symptoms akin to Gulf War Syndrome and Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome. Based on my extensive military travels overseas (including the Persian Gulf
Region during the Gulf War), Dr. Delaportis ordered a Western Blot (for spirochete
Borrelia burgdorferi, Bb), Lyme Antibodies and an O&P & Giardia (for parasitic diseases).
A copy of the lab requisition is attached at Enclosure 5.
On 9 June 1995, Dr. Delaportis diagnosed me with "Advanced Stage" LYME DISEASE,
based on the positive results of the Western Blot (Enclosure 6). Dr. Delaportis' also told
me that "if anybody could be positively diagnosed with Lyme Disease, your test results
certainly prove it!" My extensive medical research and suspicions as to what ails me
undoubtedly paid off. It is evident that the United States Army retired me from the
military with a pre-existing, extremely debilitating and life threatening infectious disease
that is a result of military service. It is unfortunate that this infectious disease is now in
the late stages and I will require continual medical attention, as a result, for the rest of
my life. And, some of my medical symptoms may be permanent as well. It is also
evident that the VA Medical Center, Martinsburg was not listening well to my reported
- 2 -
symptoms based on their findings and diagnosis. Based on documented military
medical history, coupled with the symptoms I reported in both my claim for service-
connected disability and to the VA Medical Center, Martinsburg, red flags should have
went up with additional testing for infectious diseases to rule out or confirm other
possibilities. I've read the VA medical reports/lab results and received several letters
from Dr. Richmond, VA Medical Center they didn't pursue testing by Western Blot or
Giardia to rule out infectious diseases such as Bb and Rickettsial parasites. It is no
wonder why there are so many ill veterans with unexplained medical problems walking
around who cannot be provided a proper diagnosis.
Please note that Dr. Delaportis wanted to hospitalize me for an extended period for
treatment by intravenous antibiotics (required treatment for late stage Lyme Disease).
Unfortunately, I am unable to submit to an extended (3-6 month) hospitalization due to
financial reasons. Therefore, I requested to try oral antibiotics (which has worked in a
few late stage cases) until the government can decide what they can and "will" do for
me. Senator's Mikulski (MD) and Rockefeller (WV) are intimately involved in my case. I
have requested reinstatement on active duty for medical reasons due to a pre-existing,
service-connected medical problem. In the interim, however, 1 would be pleased if VA
would move forward on my case and decide what can be done both medically and
financially to get me on the road to recovery. I believe that late stage Lyme Disease
should fit within the criteria of service-connected disability related to Gulf War Syndrome.
As a final note, I have not received the results back on the O&P & Giardia (for parasitic
diseases). Also, I have not had any further testing for other infectious diseases or
parasites that I may have picked up during my service in Vietnam, Australia and/or the
Persian Gulf (Middle East) region. Certainly, more medical tests may be called for,
considering that I was exposed to many infectious areas overseas during my twenty-four
plus years of military service.
Your assistance and attention in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
(b)(6)
Enclosures:
1. Lab Results, Specimen R95325992, 5/13/95
2. Lab Results, Specimen R95442989, 5/18/95
3. Lab Results, Specimen R95430873, 5/20/95
4. Referral to Dr. Delaportis, 5/16/95
5. Clinical Lab Request, 5/24/95
6. Lab Results, Specimen R95519002, 6/06/95 (Positive Diagnosis, Lyme Disease)
Copy to: Mrs. Brandon, MD Veterans Commission, Hagerstown
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
002. report
Medical records of veteran (13 pages)
05/05/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act |5 U.S.C. 552(b)|
PI National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA)
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA|
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA|
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
to be for warded to
DANA
the GW advisory
committee
[
[
DESERT STORM JUSTICE FOUNDATION
A NATIONAL NOT FOR PROFIT CORPORATION
POST OFFICE BOX 892014
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA 73189
TELEPHONE: 405/348-1722
March 22, 1995
Mrs. Hillary Rodham Clinton
Office of the First Lady
Old Executive Office, Room 100
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mrs. Clinton:
I feel somewhat acquainted with you since I and other Veterans and
Veteran's advocates have written to President Clinton and you have read
those letters; you have been visiting ill Veterans, and now Dr. Gant has
met with you and Dr. Zuckerman and delivered some of our information.
President Clinton's call for an independent research council was a very
welcomed announcement at the March 10-12 National Unity Conference of Gulf
War Veterans. Members of this group have visited with Dr. Zuckerman
regarding this, and we all look forward to providing input and assistance
to obtain swift results.
Mrs. Clinton, my son, Jason E. Whitcomb, is gravely ill and his health
continues to deteriorate. He was hospitalized in Dallas after having a
seizure and becoming comatose. We were attending the above referenced
conference at which Jim Tuite and Steve Robertson participated and provided
information. I'm sure you are familiar with these gentlemen.
The SPECT brain scan performed on Jason revealed neurotoxic exposure and
significant brain damage. In high school Jason's IQ was 137, shortly after
his medical discharge April 1992 it tested 126, last summer when he spent
5 1/2 weeks at the Houston VA Referral Center it was 112, last week after
the Dallas episode it was 96. This is all the result of the exposures and
medications received during his service in the Gulf War. He was a combat
engineer with the 82nd Airborne and was, of course, in top condition and
health. He has walked with a cane for over three years and now must use a
wheelchair if needing to walk over 100 feet. Jason is only 22 years old.
Since returning home from the Dallas hospital with several prescriptions,
the V.A. hospital here in Oklahoma City is unwilling to fill them - one
being oxygen. Jason is 100% disabled, service connected, and V.A. is
responsible for providing his health care. Additionally, Congress has
passed a law stating that if a V.A. health facility is unable to diagnose
and/or treat a Veteran, they must contract out that service to a non-V.A.
facility. Jason has not received a definite diagnose for his joint
disorders and very little treatment other than being sent to the mental
health clinic and pills shoved at him.
Mrs. Hillary Clinton
March 22, 1995
Page Two
Mrs. Clinton, I desperately need help for my son. He does not have health
insurance nor the funds to pay for non-V.A. health care. Dr. William Rea,
internationally known cardiovascular surgeon and head of the Environmental
Clinic of Dallas, has an extremely effective treatment program that has
proven to be a life saver for several gravely ill Gulf War Veterans. Dr.
Rea has visited with Major General Blanck and Secretary Jesse Brown on
numerous occasions regarding his protocol, and has offered to train V.A.
and military doctors in his treatment program. Dr. Rea has agreed to
"carry" Jason's medical bills if he can pay for his housing costs while in
Dallas for the six week treatment program. Dr. Rea says he will assist me
in billing V.A.; however, Jason is afraid to incur thousands of dollars in
medical expense and face the prospect of bankruptcy.
Meanwhile his health continues to deteriorate and he and his wife know they
cannot even consider having children - even without the prospect of his
worsening health and financial constraints. I'm referring to the huge
number of incidents involving ill spouses, children, miscarriages, still-
births, and horrible birth defects.
I visited today with Dr. Myra Shalivick (spelling?) of the North Hampton
V.A. Medical Center in New Hampshire. I first knew of her when we were in
Washington November 1993 and she gave testimony concerning toxic exposures
and environmental illnesses. She has worked diligently to formulate a
protocol and environmental unit, on her own time as she has not been given
time during normal working hours at the hospital. She told me of an April
19 meeting to seek approval of the treatment plan. Mrs. Clinton, I hope
you or Mr. Clinton are able to discover more about this meeting and
ascertain that Dr. Shalivick is receiving fair consideration and funding.
Mrs. Clinton, I am writing to you also in behalf of all ill Gulf War
Veterans and their families. I am the public affairs officer for the
Desert Storm Justice Foundation, and we have over 2,200 members for all
States, England and Germany. I have spoken personally with hundreds of ill
Veterans and their family members and I can't begin to tell you the horror
stories I hear and how it tears at your heart. The worst stories are about
the babies followed by the dismay of not being believed by V.A. or the
public. Jason is my "baby" and I intend to do everything I can with every
fiber in my body to see that he receives proper medical treatment and heals
as much as possible to return to the normal life of a young man with his
whole life ahead of him.
I am enclosing a cassette tape of the song Jason's Storm, which was written
about Jason. The song has had a tremendous effect on all Veterans, family
members and the public. It is the second song on the cassette, and I think
you will better understand the situation after listening to the words. I
look forward to hearing something from your office. My card is enclosed.
Sincerely,
Sina Whiterm
Gina Whitcomb
Public Affairs officer
MR. + MRS Clinton,
10F4
first off I would like to
SAY that I think that yourself
and your staff have doNe A greAt
job since tAking office.
MR. Cliton, I come to you iN
hopes that you'll get this letter
yourself and hope that you
CAn help me on my V.A. ClAim
and maybe some Advice on
which steps I need to take
now. Let me explAin A little,
I've hAve A claim in now
foR 21 months and Ive done
everything I know to do, and
they rAted me At 100% disAbled
but non- service connected.
Ive been hospitAlized
Several times and hAve lost
my job of 84RS and now there
wanting to medically retire me
from the 2/1420 FA ARmy National
GUARD with 17yrs. of Service. The
V.A. hospital in littke Rock hAs
given me Another type of
wheel ChAiR put MCL in kg braces,
20F4
given me A cane and hAs
me going to preventive
Amputation foR my legs. I
don't understand how I'm
getting All this if I'm not
Service connected.
I have Also filed foR unempolyibly
with the V.A. and have not
hAd
Any AssitAnce on that
MAtteR either from the U.A.
my ClAim is being hAndle in
NAsuillie, TN., They first
told me that NO Records from
Any doctors Stated that these
thigs were related to Desert
StoRm, well, that's wrong to
because it was StAted AdleAst
21 times from Several Doctor's.
So I think they just didn't
reAD them. I cAn't wAlk
60 ft. without stopping to
rest,
MR. ClitoN I'm writting
you because I'm very ill and
not only Clo I suffer but
my fAmily has to suffer out
3 OF4
of this Also. If I sound
Somewhat bitter it's because
I AM somewhat and they
SAY it's because I hAve PTSD
Also.
MR. Clinton, I have climbed
the ChAin of command but
I hAven't gotten Anywhere
doing that so I hope your
dooR is open This is the
ORDER that Ive taken.
1. NAtional GUARD Unit
2. V.A. Hosp. tal
3. D.A.U.
4. Congressman Huthinson
5. I.G MAj HAll little Rock
6. Sen. Bumpers
7. Sen. Pryor
8. MR. Jesse BROWN no response from his staff
9. Yourself MR. President
I come to you because I know
of your deep concern foR All people
and I WAS so phyfically fit befor
the WAR, I WAS Always in the
Top 3 in my GUARD Unit on the
fittness test and now Imbound
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DOCUMENT NO.
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To Mr. & Mrs. Clinton from veteran (partial p. 4) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
COLLECTION:
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First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
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P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
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and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
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personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
40F4
to A wheel ChaiR and I'm
not relAted to Desert Storm
well, I sure don't know
how I'm suppose to under-
Stand that. MAYbe you'll shine
some light on that for me
and my family.
I went from CARNING
30, 000 A ye. to not ONEN A
copper penny the lAST YR.
my family never worried About
Anything and now we All
worry dAily . Please help OR
give me A CAll At 501-632-4785
for your advice for I don't
know where to gofrom here.
I hope when yourin FIRK
Again I CAN be horored
to Shake your hand in
PeRSON. You've done A great
job. MAY God be with you
[003a]
MR. President and YOUR lovely
family. Thank you So muchly,
(b)(6)
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DOCUMENT NO.
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003b. note
To The President from veteran re: consent (1 page)
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COLLECTION:
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First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
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P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRA)
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P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
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financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRAJ
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Refer
MR. PRESIDENT,
your
I did not know if you needed my consent in helping me in my claim,
if so then:
I
(b)(6)
hereby give my consent to you the President
of the United States to handle my request.
ON THIS DATE 31 JULY 95.
[00.36]
(b)(6)
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DOCUMENT NO.
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DATE
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AND TYPE
004. report
Medical records of veteran (20 pages)
07/17/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
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financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
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personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
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purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA|
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
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DOCUMENT NO.
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DATE
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AND TYPE
005. form
Re: Hardship Cases (partial) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
COLLECTION:
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First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
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Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(I) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA)
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
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financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
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P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
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personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
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C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
referred
HARDSHIP CASES
WHITE HOUSE COMMENT LINE
VOLUNTEER NAME
M. Goldman
[0C5]
Name of Caller:
Address
(b)(6)
P.O.Box 1220 A 0037
Silver City, New Mex
Calling on behalf of whom:
88062
Self
Home Telephone:
Work Telephone:
(
)
( ) 1-800-915-5977
message.
DOB:
8S#
Date of call:
(b)(6)
(b)(6)
10-26-95
Nature of problem:
Why is this urgent? 23433961 claim
Social security
He is living in the back of
Veterans
35 5 years ago he was diagnosed
a pick up truck.
Housing
with post traumatic stress dis-
order. Claim adjudicated
Children
July 27, 1993. Awardeda NON
Prisons
service connected benefit
Immigration
Appealed Appeals process Perfection denied of eights
Medicare
arbitrary.
What action would the caller
Medicaid
want? last adjudication
Seniors
sept. 12.- - Submit and
Military
denied.
Unemployment
Claim # 23433961
IRS
He just can barely
Utilities
exist on what he gets
Federal Grants
Consumer Affairs
0
Social Services
Please refer to the Agency Liaison Office:
Stephen Miller has asked the First Lady's office for assistance.
He is a Gulf War veteran whose son was born approximately one
year after the war with birth defects known as Goldenhar Syndrome
-- the baby was born with one eye, one ear, and other serious
defects. Goldenhar Syndrome is very rare, and is believed to be
caused by chemical exposure.
Stephen Miller is a nurse. He is mild-mannered and
knowledgeable, and he has testified before Congress about his
son's condition, and has been interviewed by several magazines
and newspapers. He had to be discharged from the military in
order to help care for his son.
The Air Force is handling the claims. Three pages of
documentation is attached.
28ApRil 95.
DR. ZUCKERMAN.
Im NOT Sure iF you Benember me, my NAME is STephen Milkr
TO our hear SON is cedrick miller, LAST year you were kind Encough
our STORY AT The Aug 94 HeARings.
discharge, I WAS recently discharged From The ARMY, I
or The Military, with Everything going on in our Lives, Asked IT WAS For my A FAMILY
I I AM WRITING To ASK IF There HAVE been Any develope ments in This Issue.
hAd WAS recently Told DOD TesTed The drugs on Animals And They died or
deFoRmed OFFSPRING.
Im And Sorery The DRS iF Im STill upset but yesterday I SAW
now Since SAY Even Though he is cute now cedricks 3-n CATSCAW
which will he MAKE is Developing in Age. we have 3 more His Surgeries PACE will distoret
we have A claim 13 in Three years, Plus The ones needed AS upcoming he developes, is Age.
Air Force ClAim's Filed with Don, but iT WAS
cedricks The other FAMilies, we Found Eight Any Thing c
neither has Any OF office, FROM The ARMY, And TRANSFEARED we haven't TO heard The yet
Forz GulF WAR condition ( Golden har) 2 weeks Ago cedrick WAS possibly Finally nine seen
EUAL This LASTED Less Than / hr.
we would Appreciate Any Helps you could provide Thank you.
STephen miller
they me
210-646-8446
10830 EdgeaResT DR.
SAn Antonio Texas.
78217.
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DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
006a. letter
To The First Lady from veteran re: health (2 pages)
03/20/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)|
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRA
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA|
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute |(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRAJ
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
copy
VA CLAIM #
(b)(6)
(b)(6)
[0062]
March 20, 1995
Dear The First Lady:
My name is
(b)(6)
Social Security Number
(b)(6)
During my time
in the Persian Gulf, between December 1990 to April 1991, I was with the 24th
Naval Construction )Battalion at Camp 13. Since the scud attack on January 20,
1991, my health has been going down hill. A few months after I got home I had a
physical for my work. I work for the Columbus Fire Department. That's when I
found out I couldn't pass the breathing test. Three years before I went to Desert
Storm I passed the Physical every year with no trouble.
I have been dealing with the VA Hospital in Tuskegee, Alabama since November 1992.
All they did was take blood and run test. There has been no medical treatment,
and they have not found the cause of my illmess. At first they would say nothing
was wrong with me, it was all in my head. The VA Medical Center in Tuskegee sent
the Department of Veterans Affairs a list of my symptoms.
Enclosed you will find a copy of that Diagnosis. Nobody wanted to hear this
diagnosis and wouldn't accept it. Dr. Jackson's diagnosis was: PERSIAN GULF
SYNDROME AND CHEMICAL-BIOLOGICAL WARFARE EXPOSURE. Dr. Jackson also told me later
on that I had EMPHYSEMA, but he wouldn't put that in writing.
I did every test they wanted me to do hoping they would find out what was wrong
with me. When they came up with the Pilot Program at the VA Hospital in Birmingham
Alabama, I was sent there to have more test run. I started the program March, 2
1994. They ran all kinds of test. When I talked to Dr. Roswell who was in charge
of the program, he said that my blood test were ok.
Myself and Nick Roberts, another Persian Gulf Vet, went to another Doctor in North
Carolina, and had more test. Enclosed you will find Dr. Wilson's findings. Dr. Wilson
told me none of my blood test were normal. It was either above normal or below
normal. Dr. Wilson stated in his findings that the assessment for me was suffering
from Immune Dysfunction, Fatigue, Headaches, and Memory Loss. The results were
consistent in part with effects of a Chemical Exposure on these symptoms.
I'm still working for the Columbus Fire Department. They put me in an office job,
because I'm not able to do my normal job of fighting fires. Because of my illness
I cannot put in for a promotion, and that means a loss of money.
PAGE 2
I got in contact with a Dr. Albert K. Langley, Jr., with the Georgia Department
of Natural Resources. He sent me the information I ask him for, about the long
and short term effects of exposure to various burning Hydracarbon Compounds.
When the time came and I was called on to fight in the Persian Gulf War, I went.
Now, I feel that it's time for my Country to help me with some compensation. Unless
the VA System can find a cure for mine and the other Gulf War Vets, I don't think
the compensation should be for just two or three years, unless that's how long the
VA thinks we have left on this earth!!
Now is the time for "OUR COUNTRY" to come to the aid of the "DESERT STORM VETS",
don't wait until we are all gone.
WE ALL NEED YOUR HELP!!!
Sincerely,
(b)(6)
ENCLOSURES:
1) Diagnosis from Dr. Charles Jackson/ VA Hospital
2) Letter from Department of Veterans Affairs
3) Copy of my Pulmonary Test from VA Hospital in Tuskegee
4) A letter with a Diagnosis from Dr. John Wilson in North Carolina
5) Copy of some test run in the Pilot Program in Birmingham Alabama
6) A letter from Dr. Albert K. Langley, Jr. of the EPD of Georgia
7) Diagnosis and test from two of my Private Doctors
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DOCUMENT NO.
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DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
006b. memo
To V.A. Claims Office from C. Jackson M.D. re: veteran (partial) (1
10/27/95
b(6)
page)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
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RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)|
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA|
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA|
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Department of
Memorandum
Veterans Affairs
Date 10-27-93
VA CLAIM #
(b)(6)
From: C. Jackson, M.D.
Environmental Physician, V.A. Tuskegee, Ala.
Subj Disability Claim-Persian Gulf
To V.A. Claims office
[006b]
Mr.
(b)(6)
SS#
(b)(6)
has been followed by the
V.A. Hospital in Tuskegee since his return from the Persian Gulf.
He is a member of He has experiencd shortness of breath, excessive
fatigue, diarrhea (intermittent), night sweats, memory problems
and joint pains since the Gulf War. He was a member of the
Construction Battalion 24 which was statiioned at
Al Jubayl in the Gulf We have given him the diagnosis of
Persian Gulf Syndrome and Chemical-Biological warfare exposure.
He had none of these symptoms prior to the Gulf.
If we can be of further service, please notify.
C./Jackson, M.D. Jackson
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DOCUMENT NO.
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007. report
Re: veteran with psychiatric problems (partial) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)|
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA|
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA|
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
Tape from
(b)(6)
[00.7]
Has been treated by VA for psychiatric problems since 1974. He's
had thorazine, haldol, lithium, xanax, etc (anti-psychotic drugs
and manic depression drugs). Feels the medications have not
helped him.
Wasn't sure whether to fill out the questionnaire, because he
doesn't think VA cares about anyone.
He had planned to cut off part of his finger. He had told VA
"mental hygiene" clinic that he was going to do this. I then cut
it off, 25 miles away from a community facility, and then went
there rather than go 30 miles further to VA. I made sure that it
wasn't possible to re-attach the finger, but the wound needed to
be closed. But they couldn't get authorization to treat it, so
they wanted to send him to the VA. He had waited 24 hrs, and
couldn't drive, so needed to take an ambulance.
I'm an ex-Marine sargent, by the government's choice, not mine.
Has been diagnosed as schizophrenic, so what he says is
disregarded.
VA employees like to persecute veterans.
He goes through the questions individually.
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DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
008. letter
To Dr. Zuckerman from veteran and wife (partial) (1 page)
04/21/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute |(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
TO: DR. DIANA ZUCKERMAN
APRIL 21 V5
THE OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY
FROM:
(b)(6)
REF:
(b)(6)
SS#
(b)(6)
[008]
DEAR DR. ZUCKERMAN.
I AM WRITING TO YOU ON THE BEHALF OF MY HUSBAND,
(b)(6)
(b)(6)
8 REGARDING HIS MILITARY MEDICAL DISCHARGE. I TALKED
WITH YOU ON THE PHONE, REGARDING THIS MATTER, I HAVE SENT
STATEMENTS TO THE SENATORS AMONG OTHER PERSONS.
ENCLOSED YOU WILL FIND THESE STATEMENTS, PLEASE HELP US 22?
THE ARMY NATIONAL GUARD HERE IN COLUMBIA SC. ARE GIVING us A
HARD TIME, IT SEEMS THAT THEY IAVE LOST HIS MEDICAL RECORDS.
AND OF COURSE WE DD NOT EVER RECEIVE A COPY OF THEM.
THEY ARE INSISTING THAT HE HAS GOT TO GO THROUGH ALL TESTING
AGAIN, MY HUSBAND REFUSES TO DO SO . WE HAVE DONE ALL THAT
WE WERE SUPPOSED TO DO. AND WHAT ABOUT THE PUBLIC LAW
(103-397) 1994 FURTHER RESEARCH AND STUDIES MUST BE UNDER
UNDER TAKEN AND PERSIAN GULF VETERANS GIVEN BENEFIT OF
DOUBT AND PROVIDED COMPENSATION.
DR. ZUCKERMAN WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU WILL HELP US WITH
THIS PROBLEM. I DID CONTACT TWO SENATORS OFFICES AND 00 FAR
WE HAVE NOT GOTTEN ANY HELP.
WE DO NOT WIGH TO GO TO THE MEDIA WITH THIS PRODLEM, OUT IT
(TS THE ONLY WAY TO GET HELP , THEN WE WELL DO WHAT WE MUST.
DR. ZUCKERMAN, YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN SO KIND TO ME WHEN WE
WOULD TALK, I HAVE THE UPPER MOST RESPECT FOR YOU, AND I
ALWAYS WILL. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO HELF US WITH THIS, COULD
YOU PLEASE TURN IT OVER TO SOMEONE THAT WILL ?
THANK YOU .
(b)(6)
ADDRESS:
(b)(6)
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY
phone 202-456-6266
fax 202-456-6244
TO
Elisa
FROM
Diana
FAX #
6-9180
PHONE #
# OF PAGES (including cover)
COMMENTS
Letta from 6WV of GA to HRC
C.U.F. WAR VETERANS
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
OF
GEORGIA
April 10, 1995
Paul Sullivan
President
First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton
Brian S. Atkinson
Old Executive Office Building
Vice President
Room 100
Dan Gardner
Washington, DC 20500
Treasurer
Attn: Dr. Diana Zuckerman
Susan L. Atkinson
Secretary
Special Assistant
Board of Directors
Dear First Lady:
Yancy Brown
Last month, more than 30 Gulf War veterans organizations met in
Reuben J. Mestas
Irving, Texas to unite in our efforts toward the common goal of adequate
Ron Murray
medical care for those suffering from Gulf War Syndrome.
James Rogers
During the three day event, organizers met for many long hours to
Andy Wysor
draft a National Unity Conference Statement for presentation to the
President, the Congress, the media, the public, and the veterans of the Gulf
War.
As a spokesperson for the National Unity Conference, I was asked to
send you our statement. We hope you will take the time to read this so you
may fully understand our goals, the history of the illnesses, and our
concerns regarding President Bill Clinton's Gulf War Advisory Committee.
We deeply appreciate your personal involvement in this issue, and
we look forward to working with you so we may all learn the truth about
the illnesses affecting as many as 63,000 American veterans of the Gulf War.
National Unity Conference
Gulf War Veterans and Families
Irving, Texas, March 12, 1995
Conference Statement
Those of us here today represent service members and veterans from
30 Gulf War veterans organizations from all across America. We represent
Desert Storm veterans from America, Canada, England, and Germany. We
also represent civilians who served in Southwest Asia and the families of
veterans and civilians who are ill with Gulf War Syndrome.
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia; Inc.
A non-profit veterans' service organization
Unit H-1
307 Adair St.
Decatur, Georgia 30030-2923
Phone & Fax (404) 377-3741
April 10, 1995, Unity Statement, Page Two.
Immediate, Comprehensive Medical Treatment
The Unity Conference believes our number one goal is the immediate
implementation of comprehensive medical treatment for everyone suffering from
Gulf War Syndrome, including veterans, civilians, and their families.
Those gathered here today demand that Jesse Brown, the Secretary of the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and William Perry, the Secretary of
Defense (DoD), immediately:
1) Stop widespread VA and DoD failures to provide adequate medical
treatment.
2) Institute a protocol for testing and treating us based on proof of our
exposures to various toxins and pathogens, including chemical and biological
warfare agents, investigational drugs, radiation, pollutants, and indigenous
diseases; this includes a comprehensive epidemiological study, which has yet to
be done by the government.
3) Stop improper VA claims denials and improper DoD discharges.
4) Brief each of their health care providers regarding the priority treatment
for veterans of the Gulf War and the new regulations regarding medical
discharges and medical claims.
5) Release all documents and reports related to chemical and biological
warfare incidents, the use and side-effects of investigational drugs, and
exposures to radiation, pollutants, toxins, and indigenous diseases.
History of Gulf War Syndrome
The illnesses known collectively as Gulf War Syndrome represent a
dramatic health crisis affecting tens of thousands of people. In 1991, many
soldiers reported they were exposed to pesticides, radiation, carbon monoxide
poisoning, oil well fire smoke, experimental pills and vaccines, chemical and
biological warfare agents, and other toxins. The first ill veterans reported
symptoms ranging from joint pain and fatigue to rashes and memory loss.
In 1995, four years after Operation Desert Storm, the number has grown
from a few hundred to as many as 63,000. According to the VA, there are
approximately 48,000 veterans enrolled on the VA Gulf Registry. According to
the DoD, there are an additional 15,000 veterans enrolled on the DoD Gulf
Registry.
April 10, 1995, Unity Statement, Page Three
According to the law firm Donn & Co., which is representing ill veterans,
there are 750 ill veterans in the United Kingdom. The Toronto Star reported on
March 24, 1995 that there may be as many as 450 ill veterans in Canada. There
are additional media reports of ill veterans in Germany, France, Kuwait, and the
Czech Republic. This brings the known, U.S. Government reported total of
illnesses to more than 64,000 veterans. There is no separate count for civilians,
family members, or children affected by Gulf War Syndrome.
The illnesses have now increased in severity, and soldiers are now dying
from unusual cancers, respiratory illnesses, immune diseases, and other serious
medical problems. Spouses, children, and other family members of veterans are
becoming ill as well. Since the methods of transmission of the illnesses are
unknown, we strongly caution veterans of the Gulf War to avoid donating blood,
blood products, or organs. We ask the public and other veterans to step forward
and fill the void created by this reduction in regular donors.
Presidential Gulf War Advisory Committee
The National Unity Conference supports the concept and goals of a
Presidential Advisory Committee as outlined by President Bill Clinton.
According the White House, the panel will be empowered to investigate Gulf
War Syndrome as well as chemical and biological warfare agent exposures. We
state our concerns regarding the panel.
None of the prior panels reviewing Gulf War Syndrome had independent
panelists or veterans of the Gulf War as members. Therefore, the committee
should have two members who served during the Gulf War; one should be a
scientist or physician, and the other should be an ill veteran or a family member
of the ill veteran.
None of the prior panels reviewing this matter were independent.
Therefore, the Presidential Advisory Committee should have a professional staff
and budget so that there are adequate resources to perform an investigation and
so that a final report of the investigation can be published and distributed.
None of the previous reviews of the illnesses had access to classified
information and data from other Coalition nations involved in the Gulf War.
Therefore, the panel should be granted the unrestricted access to all classified
and unclassified information about this issue, especially information related to
radiation, chemical and biological exposures, and experimental drugs. The VA,
DoD, and the Department of Health and Human Services should be compelled to
release all relevant documents and other information regarding this issue. The
Committee should receive the cooperation of the Department of State so that
other Coalition nations are prompted to cooperate with the investigation.
April 10, 1995, Unity Statement, Page Four.
None of the prior panels had the ability to make policy recommendations.
Therefore, the Gulf War panel should be provided with the additional authority
to issue suggested policy changes regarding Gulf War Syndrome and the
declassification of related documents.
Gulf War veteran organizations participating in the preparation of this
Unity Conference consensus statement were:
California Association of Persian Gulf Veterans
Desert Storm Justice Foundation
Desert Storm Veterans Coalition
Gulf War Veterans of Arkansas
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
Gulf War Veterans of Massachusetts
Northwest Veterans for Peace
Operation Desert Shield/Storm Association
Persian Gulf Veterans of America
Persian Gulf Veterans of Colorado
Swords to Plowshares
Once again, we thank you for your interest and involvement in this issue,
and we hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
Paul Sullivan
Paul Sullivan
President
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
009a. letter
To Ms. Zuckerem [sic] from veteran re: health (partial) (2 pages)
03/23/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552(b)|
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRAJ
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRA|
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA|
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA|
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
PO Box 92
Maple Springs, NY 14756
March 23, 1995
Hillary Clinton, First Lady
Att. Diana Zuckerem
The White House
1600 Pensylvania Ave.
Washington, DC 20402
[ 009a]
Re. Self:
(b)(6)
SS#:
Claim#: C24767857
Dear Ms. Zuckerem:
I understand your committee is studying the Veteran's Administration and
Veteran's Administration Hospitals ability and efficiency in providing
services and benefits to veterans. I would like to present my case to your
committee as an example of the difficulty many vets have in getting the
recognition they deserve from the U.S. Government. I was a Combat Army
Medic in Vietnam being dropped into "Hot LZ's" and flying the wounded in
choppers back to the "Mash Unit." The past 12 years I have been trying to
get the VA to recognize my service to my country in Vietnam.
My original claim was made in 1983 through the Chautauqua County
Veterans Service Office in Jamestown, NY, John Fisher service officer. The
VA denied any claim and would not send a copy of my records to the
"Service Office" they said, "because of the medical records needing the
interpretation of a physician." I sent a new request and release of
information so the records would be released to my family physician, Dr.
Charles Sinatra. Now the VA replied, "We can not forward your records,
because they have been lost." I gave up at this point in my life. I received
about 1 year of individual and group therapy at the "Vietnam Vet Drop In
Center" on 2nd. St. in Jamestown for PTSD and just kept on working at my
job.
In 1993 I reactivated my claim because of the deterioration of my physical
health had made it impossible to work. These health problem started while I
was in Vietnam. My claim was for "PTSD" but the VA rejected my claim
for "Agent Orange." This type of confusion has been standard procedure
over the years. In spite of the rejection, my claim has been in front of the
"Veterans Administration Buffalo Regional Office Review Board" since Jan.
17, 1995.
I am considered by the VA as "100% disabled with home bound status."
This is a non-service connected status. I am receiving excellent medical care
from the VA Hospitals in Buffalo, Erie and Pittsburg including my
medications. I had to fight and be very persistent to get this high quality of
medical care. If I had given up as in 1983, I would probably be dead by
now from either the Pituitary Brain Tumor, the diabetes, gangrene in my
legs, or my heart problems.
I have made a formal request for the Buffalo Regional VA Office to forward
to your committee my complete C-file for your review. This letter gives a
brief introduction to my case. If I can be of help to your committee please
contact me.
Sincerely,
(b)(6)
cc: Amo Houghton, US House
Tom Zamary, Dir. VA Buffalo
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
009b. form
Authorization for Release of Information (VA Form 21-4142)
05/01/95
b(6)
(partial) (1 page)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
PI National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA|
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA|
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
[0c9b]
Department of Veterans Affairs
AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION
1. LAST NAME . FIRST NAME . MIDDLE NAME OF VETERAN (Type or print)
2. FILE NUMBER
C24 767 857
(b)(6),
3. DATE OF BIRTH
5. NAME AND ADDRESS OF HOSPITAL OR PHYSICIAN
(b)(6)
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
4. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
REGIONAL OFFICE
NW
(b)(6)
THADOEUS J OULSKI FEDERAL BUILDING
6. DATES OF TREATMENT
111 WEST HURON ST
BUFFALO N.Y. 14202
1966-1995
MEDICAL, PERSONNEL RECORDS, C- FILE
I, the undersigned, hereby authorize the hospital or physician shown in Item 5 to disclose and release to
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) any information that may have been obtained in connection
with physical examination or treatment, with the understanding that VA will use this information in
determining my eligibility to veterans benefits I have claimed. The responses which are submitted may
be disclosed as permitted by law outside VA. I understand I may revoke this authorization at any time
except to the extent action has already been taken in reliance thereon: This request is valid for ninety (90)
days from the date in Item 7B unless sooner revoked by me in writing.
7A. SIGNATURE OF VETERAN OR LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE
7B. DATE
5-1-95
(b)(6)
8A. SIGNATURE OF WITNESS (Required)
88. DATE
Meoyets Cornell V.S.O.
5-1-95
VA FORM
SUPERSEDES VA FORM 21-4142, AUG 1989,
21-4142
*U.S Government Printing Office1992- 313-106/63437
MAR 1992
WHICH WILL NOT BE USED.
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
010. note
Re: veteran's letter (partial) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA|
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRA|
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
[C10]
This letter from
(b)(6)
was sent to the First Lady's
office, requesting assistance.
(b)(6)
is a Gulf War
veteran who is ill and seeks a medical discharge and
compensation. He has been unable to get a service-connected
medical discharge because the Army National Guard has lost his
medical records. He does not want to be tested by the Army again
because he has already gone through a lot of tests and believes
that he has been treated badly.
(b)(6)
had previously spoken with staff from the First Lady's
office and provided information to her on another matter, and
seems very reasonable.
COPY
to: Diana
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Zuckerman
April 11, 1995
Ms. Eileen Ward
1142 Vernon Place
Marco, Florida 33937
Dear Ms. Ward:
Thank you for the kind letter and invitation to Mrs. Clinton
to attend and address your benefit golf tournament and reception
in May.
Although Mrs. Clinton's official schedule will not permit
her to accept the invitation, she appreciates your thoughtfulness
and sends her best wishes.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office if we can be of
any assistance to you in the future.
Sincerely,
Satusfris
Patti Solis
Special Assistant to the President
Director of Scheduling
for the First Lady
CRUF WAR VETERANS
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
OF
GEORGIA
April 10, 1995
Paul Sullivan
President
First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton
Brian S. Atkinson
Old Executive Office Building
Vice President
Room 100
Dan Gardner
Washington, DC 20500
Treasurer
Attn: Dr. Diana Zuckerman
Susan L. Atkinson
Secretary
Special Assistant
Board of Directors
Dear First Lady:
Yancy Brown
Last month, more than 30 Gulf War veterans organizations met in
Reuben J. Mestas
Irving, Texas to unite in our efforts toward the common goal of adequate
Ron Murray
medical care for those suffering from Gulf War Syndrome.
James Rogers
During the three day event, organizers met for many long hours to
Andy Wysor
draft a National Unity Conference Statement for presentation to the
President, the Congress, the media, the public, and the veterans of the Gulf
War.
As a spokesperson for the National Unity Conference, I was asked to
send you our statement. We hope you will take the time to read this so you
may fully understand our goals, the history of the illnesses, and our
concerns regarding President Bill Clinton's Gulf War Advisory Committee.
We deeply appreciate your personal involvement in this issue, and
we look forward to working with you so we may all learn the truth about
the illnesses affecting as many as 63,000 American veterans of the Gulf War.
National Unity Conference
Gulf War Veterans and Families
Irving, Texas, March 12, 1995
Conference Statement
Those of us here today represent service members and veterans from
30 Gulf War veterans organizations from all across America. We represent
Desert Storm veterans from America, Canada, England, and Germany. We
also represent civilians who served in Southwest Asia and the families of
veterans and civilians who are ill with Gulf War Syndrome.
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia; Inc.
A non-profit veterans' service organization
Unit H-1
307 Adair St.
Decatur, Georgia 30030-2923
Phone & Fax (404) 377-3741
April 10, 1995, Unity Statement, Page Two.
Immediate, Comprehensive Medical Treatment
The Unity Conference believes our number one goal is the immediate
implementation of comprehensive medical treatment for everyone suffering from
Gulf War Syndrome, including veterans, civilians, and their families.
Those gathered here today demand that Jesse Brown, the Secretary of the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and William Perry, the Secretary of
Defense (DoD), immediately:
1) Stop widespread VA and DoD failures to provide adequate medical
treatment.
2) Institute a protocol for testing and treating us based on proof of our
exposures to various toxins and pathogens, including chemical and biological
warfare agents, investigational drugs, radiation, pollutants, and indigenous
diseases; this includes a comprehensive epidemiological study, which has yet to
be done by the government.
3) Stop improper VA claims denials and improper DoD discharges.
4) Brief each of their health care providers regarding the priority treatment
for veterans of the Gulf War and the new regulations regarding medical
discharges and medical claims.
5) Release all documents and reports related to chemical and biological
warfare incidents, the use and side-effects of investigational drugs, and
exposures to radiation, pollutants, toxins, and indigenous diseases.
History of Gulf War Syndrome
The illnesses known collectively as Gulf War Syndrome represent a
dramatic health crisis affecting tens of thousands of people. In 1991, many
soldiers reported they were exposed to pesticides, radiation, carbon monoxide
poisoning, oil well fire smoke, experimental pills and vaccines, chemical and
biological warfare agents, and other toxins. The first ill veterans reported
symptoms ranging from joint pain and fatigue to rashes and memory loss.
In 1995, four years after Operation Desert Storm, the number has grown
from a few hundred to as many as 63,000. According to the VA, there are
approximately 48,000 veterans enrolled on the VA Gulf Registry. According to
the DoD, there are an additional 15,000 veterans enrolled on the DoD Gulf
Registry.
April 10, 1995, Unity Statement, Page Three
According to the law firm Donn & Co., which is representing ill veterans,
there are 750 ill veterans in the United Kingdom. The Toronto Star reported on
March 24, 1995 that there may be as many as 450 ill veterans in Canada. There
are additional media reports of ill veterans in Germany, France, Kuwait, and the
Czech Republic. This brings the known, U.S. Government reported total of
illnesses to more than 64,000 veterans. There is no separate count for civilians,
family members, or children affected by Gulf War Syndrome.
The illnesses have now increased in severity, and soldiers are now dying
from unusual cancers, respiratory illnesses, immune diseases, and other serious
medical problems. Spouses, children, and other family members of veterans are
becoming ill as well. Since the methods of transmission of the illnesses are
unknown, we strongly caution veterans of the Gulf War to avoid donating blood,
blood products, or organs. We ask the public and other veterans to step forward
and fill the void created by this reduction in regular donors.
Presidential Gulf War Advisory Committee
The National Unity Conference supports the concept and goals of a
Presidential Advisory Committee as outlined by President Bill Clinton.
According the White House, the panel will be empowered to investigate Gulf
War Syndrome as well as chemical and biological warfare agent exposures. We
state our concerns regarding the panel.
None of the prior panels reviewing Gulf War Syndrome had independent
panelists or veterans of the Gulf War as members. Therefore, the committee
should have two members who served during the Gulf War; one should be a
scientist or physician, and the other should be an ill veteran or a family member
of the ill veteran.
None of the prior panels reviewing this matter were independent.
Therefore, the Presidential Advisory Committee should have a professional staff
and budget so that there are adequate resources to perform an investigation and
so that a final report of the investigation can be published and distributed.
None of the previous reviews of the illnesses had access to classified
information and data from other Coalition nations involved in the Gulf War.
Therefore, the panel should be granted the unrestricted access to all classified
and unclassified information about this issue, especially information related to
radiation, chemical and biological exposures, and experimental drugs. The VA,
DoD, and the Department of Health and Human Services should be compelled to
release all relevant documents and other information regarding this issue. The
Committee should receive the cooperation of the Department of State so that
other Coalition nations are prompted to cooperate with the investigation.
April 10, 1995, Unity Statement, Page Four.
None of the prior panels had the ability to make policy recommendations.
Therefore, the Gulf War panel should be provided with the additional authority
to issue suggested policy changes regarding Gulf War Syndrome and the
declassification of related documents.
Gulf War veteran organizations participating in the preparation of this
Unity Conference consensus statement were:
California Association of Persian Gulf Veterans
Desert Storm Justice Foundation
Desert Storm Veterans Coalition
Gulf War Veterans of Arkansas
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
Gulf War Veterans of Massachusetts
Northwest Veterans for Peace
Operation Desert Shield/Storm Association
Persian Gulf Veterans of America
Persian Gulf Veterans of Colorado
Swords to Plowshares
Once again, we thank you for your interest and involvement in this issue,
and we hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
Paul Sullivan
Paul Sullivan
President
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF THE FIRST LADY
phone 202-456-6266
fax 202-456-6244
TO
Bob Jones
FROM
Deare
FAX #
273-4876
PHONE #
# OF PAGES (including cover)
COMMENTS
Here in the request I told
yan about Presse note the
then ceremony in april 29!!!
I remembered is incomectly
it's a Victnam Pow from
Kentuchy & d assume we want
to do whatever we can for
Victnam vets.
Thanks
Biane
APR-21-1995 13:35 FROM WBKR & WOMI RADIO
TO
12024566244343
P.01
WBKRS
925 FM
The
WBKR
Conntry Station Super
REACH
P.O. Box 1330
Date: April 21, 1995
3301 Prederka Street
Owensboro, KY 42302
502-683-1558
Evansville only: 477-6584
FAX: 502-685-2500
FAX # (502) 685-2500
TELECOPIER COVER LETTER
TO:
Company
The White House
Attention
Diane Zuckerman
FROM:
Lee Denney, Chairman, The Colonel Charles Shelton Memorial
Committee, Inc.
Hello!
We are transmitting 3 page(s) - (including cover letter). If you do not
receive all of the pages. please call us. Ask for the person who sent you this fax.
Reply requested:
YES
NO
Comments: I spoke with you this morning and you kindly offered to
to see that this material made its way to the President.
I appreciate your assistance.
AM 1490
Owensbords
WOMI
Own...
APR-21-1995 13:35 FROM WBKR & WOMI RADIO
TO
12024566244343
P.02
Col. Charles E. Shelton Memorial
CHARLES E
SHEL
COLONEL
TON
MIA
MEMORIAL
POW
WHONOR
in
ALL
OF
In Honor of ALL POW - MIA of All Wars
President Bill Clinton
April 21, 1995
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. President,
Greetings from the hometown of U-S: "Senator Wendell Ford
of Kentucky.
I am Lee Denney, chair of the Colonel Charles Shelton
Memorial Committee, Incorporated, of Owensboro, Kentucky.
The enclosed material will supply some background on Colonel
Shelton and the committee. He issan American hero worthy
of the honor we seek to bestow upon him.
Colonel Shelton was an official prisoner of war for 29 years,
the final one of the Vietnam War era.
April 29th will be the 30th anniversary of his capture.
And it would have been his 63rd birthday.
Our committee will hold a memorial service at 12:30pm on
that date at the Daviess County Courthouse to honor him
and to officially launch a nationwide drive to raise funds
for a memorial in Owensboro.
It would be an outstanding honor if you, Mr. President, or
your representative could join us. However, in these
troubled times, thay may not be possible. In that event,
would you please consider issuing a statement of support
to be read at the ceremony.
Thank you, Sir, and God Bless you.
Lee Denney
Chairman
LenDenney
Col. Charles E. Shelton Memorial
P.O. Box 1158
Owensboro, KY 42302.
APR-21-1995 13:36 FROM WBKR & WOMI RADIO
TO
12024566244343
P.03
Col. Charles E. Shelton Memorial
CHARLES E.
SHEL
COLONEL
TON
MIA
MEMORIAL
MOd
in
ALL
OF
HONOR
In HONOR of ALL POW - MIA of All Wars
On April 29, 1965, Colonel Charles Shelton, a native
of Owensboro, Kentucky, was flying a secret reconnaissance
mission over Laos on his 33rd birthday. His U-S Air Force
F-101 was shot down by enemy fire. He survived the crash
and was captured.
Colonel Shelton remained an official Prisoner of War
for the next 29 years, the final U-S military personnel
to be so listed by the American government. There were
numerous reports of sightings and of escape attempts well
into the 1980s.
In October, 1994, his five children requested the
Pentagon to change his status to presumed killed in action.
In November of last year, there was a memorial service,
with full military honors, in Arlington National Cemetery.
A marker was placed next to the grave of his wife, Mariam,
who is also buried in Arlington. Mariam, also a native
of Owensboro, for 25-years searched for clues to her husband's
fate and, she hoped, for his eventual release. She became
a national symbol of the tragedy and sacrifice of families
of P-O-W's and M-I-A's.
A group or Owensboro citizens, veterans organizations,
friends and family is determined Colonel Shelton and men
and women like him, will not be forgotten.
The Colonel Charles Shelton Memorial Committee, Incorporated,
has set a $250,000 goal to construct a fitting memorial on the
lawn of the Daviess County Courthouse in Owensboro to honor
Shelton, P-O-W's and M-I-A's of all wars and the families.
Tax exempt contributions may be sent to the Colonel Charles
Shelton Memorial Fund, Post Office Box 1158, Owensboro, Kentucky,
42303. For more information contact Lee Denney, Chairman, at
1-800-666-1031.
Col. Charles E. Shelton Memorial
P.O. Box 1158
Owensboro, KY 42302
TOTAL P.03
CUUL WAR VETERANS
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
OF
F GEORGIA
April 23, 1995
Paul Suilivan
President
COL Robert J. Martinelli, USAF
Director of Manpower, Personnel,
Brian S. Atkinson
and Administration
Vice President
United States Central Command
Dan Gardner
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
Treasurer
MacDill AFB, FL 33621-5101
Susan L. Atkinson
Secretory
Dear Colonel Martinelli:
RE: FOIA 95-13, et al
Board of Directors
1. CENTCOM failed to respond in a timely manner or with diligence to our
Yancy Brown
FOIA requests. For example, three separate requests were made for the
Reuben J. Mestas
same information and CENTCOM provided two separate, partial responses.
Ron Morray
2. CENTCOM responses to our repeated FOIA requests did not yield all of
James Rogers
the requested information. For example, on 17 Jan 91 (and many other days
Andy Wysor
such at the 22 and 23 Jan 91), CENTCOM sent only partial information. On
17 Jan 91, the log begins as 0245 hours and ends at 1050 hours the same day.
In another example, entire days are missing from the report. There is no log
for 24 or 25 Jan 91 and many other days.
3. Therefore, we request the missing and partial days (17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24,
25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 Jan; 01, 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,
15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, and 28 Feb; 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 05, 07, 08,
09, 10, 11, and 13 through 31, inclusive. For simplicity, only 20 and 21 Jan;
04, 24, and 25 Feb; and 12 Mar appear to be complete NBC log dates.
4. No explanation for the tardiness or for the missing data has been given
by CENTCOM. In addition to this fourth request, we demand an
explanation from LTG Richard Neal regarding what may be either an
inability to perform duties according to the law or an intentional violation
of the law. We will not tolerate failures to properly comply with FOIA.
Sincerely,
COPY
Paul Sullivan
President
cc: Mr. Anthony Lake, White House
Dr. Diana Zuckerman, Old Executive Office Building
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia, Inc.
A non-profit veterans service organization
Unit H.!
307 Adair St
Decatur, Georgia 30030-2923
Phone & Fax (404) 377-3741
GREAT ETERANS
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
OF
GEORGIA
April 23, 1995
Paul Suilivan
President
COL Robert J. Martinelli, USAF
Director of Manpower, Personnel,
Brian S. Atkinson
and Administration
Vice President
United States Central Command
Dan Gardner
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
Treasurer
MacDill AFB, FL 33621-5101
Susan L. Atkinson
Secretary
Dear Colonel Martinelli:
RE: FOIA 95-13, et al
Board of Directors
1. CENTCOM failed to respond in a timely manner or with diligence to our
Yancy Brown
FOIA requests. For example, three separate requests were made for the
Reuben J. Mestas
same information and CENTCOM provided two separate, partial responses.
Ron Murray
2. CENTCOM responses to our repeated FOIA requests did not yield all of
James Rogers,
the requested information. For example, on 17 Jan 91 (and many other days
Andy Wysor
such at the 22 and 23 Jan 91), CENTCOM sent only partial information. On
17 Jan 91, the log begins as 0245 hours and ends at 1050 hours the same day.
In another example, entire days are missing from the report. There is no log
for 24 or 25 Jan 91 and many other days.
3. Therefore, we request the missing and partial days (17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24,
25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 Jan; 01, 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,
15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, and 28 Feb; 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 05, 07, 08,
09, 10, 11, and 13 through 31, inclusive. For simplicity, only 20 and 21 Jan;
04, 24, and 25 Feb; and 12 Mar appear to be complete NBC log dates.
4. No explanation for the tardiness or for the missing data has been given
by CENTCOM. In addition to this fourth request, we demand an
explanation from LTG Richard Neal regarding what may be either an
inability to perform duties according to the law or an intentional violation
of the law. We will not tolerate failures to properly comply with FOIA.
Sincerely,
COPY
Paul Sullivan
President
CC: Mr. Anthony Lake, White House
Dr. Diana Zuckerman, Old Executive Office Building
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia; Inc.
A non-profit veterans' service organization
Unit H-1
307 Adair St.
Decatur, Georgia 30030-2923
Phone & Fax (404) 377-3741
=== COVER PAGE ===
TO:
DR. Diana Sucherman
FAX: 202-456-6244
FROM:
Joy chavez
FAX:
803-328-0410
TEL:
28.00 00 PAGE[S] TO FOLLOW
COMMENT: PLEASE CALL
CRUIT STERANS
copy
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia
OFGEORGIA
April 23, 1995
Paul Suilivan
President
COL Robert J. Martinelli, USAF
Director of Manpower, Personnel,
Brian S. Atkinson
and Administration
Vice President
United States Central Command
Dan Gardner
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
Treasurer
MacDill AFB, FL 33621-5101
Susan L. Atkinson
Secretary
Dear Colonel Martinelli:
RE: FOIA 95-13, et al
Board of Directors
1. CENTCOM failed to respond in a timely manner or with diligence to our
Yancy Brown
FOIA requests. For example, three separate requests were made for the
Reuben J. Mestas
same information and CENTCOM provided two separate, partial responses.
Ron Murray
2. CENTCOM responses to our repeated FOIA requests did not yield all of
James Rogers
the requested information. For example, on 17 Jan 91 (and many other days
Andy Wysor
such at the 22 and 23 Jan 91), CENTCOM sent only partial information. On
17 Jan 91, the log begins as 0245 hours and ends at 1050 hours the same day.
In another example, entire days are missing from the report. There is no log
for 24 or 25 Jan 91 and many other days.
3. Therefore, we request the missing and partial days (17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24,
25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 Jan; 01, 02, 03, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,
15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, and 28 Feb; 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 05, 07, 08,
09, 10, 11, and 13 through 31, inclusive. For simplicity, only 20 and 21 Jan;
04, 24, and 25 Feb; and 12 Mar appear to be complete NBC log dates.
4. No explanation for the tardiness or for the missing data has been given
by CENTCOM. In addition to this fourth request, we demand an
explanation from LTG Richard Neal regarding what may be either an
inability to perform duties according to the law or an intentional violation
of the law. We will not tolerate failures to properly comply with FOIA.
Sincerely,
COPY -
Paul Sullivan
President
cc: Mr. Anthony Lake, White House
Dr. Diana Zuckerman, Old Executive Office Building
Gulf War Veterans of Georgia; Inc.
A non-profit veterans' service organization
Unit H.!
307 Adair St.
Decatur, Georgia 30030-2923
Phone & Fax (404) 377-3741
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
Olla. fax
To Hillary Clinton (partial) (1 page)
02/23/95
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute {(a)(3) of the PRA|
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA|
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA|
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors |a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions |(b)(8) of the FOIA]
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
7EE-23-90 THU 08:26 PM VFSN
(b)(6)
*
(b)(6)
P.01
Alia has
organal
copy
[011 a)
Mrs. Hillary Clinton
Office of the First Lady
Attention: Diana Zuckerman
White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, D.C.
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
011b. letter
To Whom It May Concern from veteran's wife (partial p. 1) (1 page)
n.d.
b(6)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
First Lady's Office
Maggie Williams (Subject Files)
OA/Box Number: 12631
FOLDER TITLE:
Copies of Letters Referred [1]
2013-0359-S
ry1475
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRAJ
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute |(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA|
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA|
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA|
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
VFSN
(b)(6)
(b)(6)
P.02
(b)(6)
[011b]
To WHOM IT MAY CONCERN,
HELLO, MY NAME I6
(b)(6)
.
I AM THE NATIONAL CHAIRPERSON FOR VETERANS
AND FAMILY SUPPORT NETWORK, MORE IMPORTANTLY, T AM THE ILL SPOUSE OF AN ILL
DESERT STORM VETERAN. Our 4 CHILDREN, ALL BORN PRIOR TO THE WAR, HAVE SUFFERED
STRANGE MALADIES SINCE MY HUSDAND RETURN, THAT OUR FAMILY Y PHYSICIAN CANNOT
DIAGNOSE. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT IF YOU WOULD OPEN YOUR HEART WHITE YOU READ
THIS LETTER. PUT YOURSELF IN OUR POSITIONS, AND THEN PRAY FOR US. I AM
BEGINNING TO THINK THAT ONLY THROUGH THE GRACE OF GOD CAN WE SURVIVE THIS
ILLNESS DUBBED GULF WAR SYNDROME.
WHEN MY HUSBAND RETURNED FROM HIS SERVICE IN THE GULF IN SEPTEMBER OF 1991,
I THOUGHT THE WORST WAS OVER FOR US WHEN IN REALITY THE WORST WAS JUST
BEGINNING. DAN ALREADY HAD SYMPTOMS OF HIS ILLNESS, THOUGH HEADACHES, OPEN
SORES, AND DIARRHEA CAN EASILY BE EXPLAINED AWAY FOLLOWING A WAR. WE FELT THAT
IT WAS READJUSTMENT, FOODS NOT EATEN IN OVER 0 MONTHO, AND THOSE DREADED FLTFS
THAT HAD BITTEN HIM CONTIUALLY IN THE DESERT. Bur INSTEAD OF THESE PHYSICAL
PROBLEMS GOING AWAY, THEY HAVE CONTINUED TO PLAGUE HIM. Now, FOUR YEARS LATER,
HIS ILLNESS HAS INCREASED 10 THE POINT THAT HE HAS HAD TO FILED FOR DIGABILITY
FEB-23-95 THU 08:27 PM VFSN GinaBrown
216 457 1923
P.03
FROM HIS JOB. THE DISABILITY WE FILED FOR THROUGH THE VA HAS BEEN DENIED, I AM
VERY FRIGHTENED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE. I WILL TRY TO EXPLAIN TO YOU
WHY.
TEN MONTHS AGO WE FILED FOR DISABILTY THROUGH THE VA SYSTEM. I AM ONE OF
THOSE PEOPLE WHO HAVE MADE TRIPS TO WASHINGTON TO ATTEND THE HEARINGS ON THE
GUIF WAR SYNDROME, HOPING THAT SOME NEW INFORMATION WOULD COME FORTH AND THE
CURE WOULD BE ON THE HORIZON. I KNEW OF THE BILLS BEING PASSED STATING THAT THE
VETERAN WOULD BE GIVEN THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT AND THAT ILLNESS HAD TO MANIFEST
ITSELF WITHIN 2 YEARS OF SERVICE. I ALSO KNEW THAT WE WOULD BE SAFE UNDER THESE
NEW LAWS. EVEN THOUGH TN 1991, WHEN MY HUSBAND LAY ON THE BED IN TEARS DUE TO A
HCADACHE WE COULD NOT CONTROL, THF VA REFUSED TO ALLOW HIM AN APOINTMENT,
STATING THAT THEY COULD CET HIM IN IN 6 MONTHS, I GOT HIM INTO OUR CIVILIAN
DOCTOR. I ALCO KNEW THAT THAT APPOINTMENT IFD TO OTHERS AT VARIOUS SPECIALISTS,
NEUROLOGISTS, DERMATOLOCISTS, AND PSYCHOLOGISTS, WF HAD THE RECORDS TO BACK UP
OUR STATEMENT OF HIS ILLNEGO. WHAT I DIDN'T COUNT ON WAS THAT WHEN HE FILED FOR
HIS DISABILITY AND WE LISTED ALL THESE OTHER DOCTORS TO USE AS A SOURCE FOR HIS
HEARING, THEY WOULD BE IGNORED. You DEE, MY HUSBAND'S DENIAL CAME ON
VALENTINE'S DAY, AND IT STATED THAT THE COURCES THE VA DENIED HIM ON WERE A VA
APPOINTMENT ON JULY 13, 1994 AND HIS SERVICE RCCORD BOOK. I UNDERSTAND THAT WE
HAVE THE RIGHT TO APPEAL, BUT I KNOW THAT THE APPEAL PROCESS CAN TAKE EVEN
LONGER, MANY PEOPLE ARE STILL WAITING 3 YEARS AFTER THEIR INITIAL FILING.
WHERE DO WE TURN UNTIL THEN? SOCIAL SECURITY?
SOCIAL SECURITY-SSD OR SSI DOESN'T SEEM TO BE AN OPTION FOR UD. WE OWN A
HOME OTHER THAN THE ONE WE LIVE IN. IT IS RENTED FOR THE AMOUNT or THE PAYMENT
BECAUSE WE COULDN'T SELL IT. FOR YEARS WE TRIEU AND FINALLY HAD TO GCTTLE FOR
RENTING IT BECAUSE FINANCIALLY IT WAS DRAINING US. so NOW WE HAVE SOMEONE
LIVING THERE WHO IS PAYING THE PAYMENT FOR US. BUT WE STILL OWN IT. So WE
WON'T BE ELIGIBLE FOR SOCIAL SECURITY. So OUR OPTIONS ARE NARROWING RAPIDLY.
WE THOUGHT ABOUT THE WELFARE SYSTEM AND FOOD STAMPS. AN OPTION I NEVER THOUGHT
WE WOULD HAVE TO LOOK INTO. BUT 1 HAVE. LET ME IELL YOU WHAT I HAVE LEARNED
FEB-23-95 THU 08:28 PM VFSN GinaBrown
216 457 1923
P.04
ABOUT IT.
FOOD STAMP8-WE OWN A VEHICLE, THE FOOD STAMP SYSTEM WILL TELL YOU THAT IN
ORDER TO EAT, OR RECIEVE FOOD STAMPS WE MUST FIRST SELL OUR CAR. IT IS TOO NEW
FOR US TO BE CONSIDERED DESTITUTE ENOUGH TO NEED ASSISTANCE. IF WE SELL IT, HOW
DO WE GET OUR CHILDREN TO THE DOCTOR, HOSPITAL, OR SCHOOL FUNCTIONS? How CAN MY
HUSBAND POSSIBLY GO TO WORK, IF BY SOME MIRACLE, THEY FIND A WAY TO TREAT GWS?
ANOTHER OPTION, I CAN GO BACK INTO THE WORKING WORLD.
T DON'T HAVE A PROBLEM WITH WORKING TO FEED MY FAMILY. WHAT I DO HAVE A
PROBLEM WITH TS KNOWING THAT I CANNOT GET MUCH MORE THAN MINIMUM WAGE BECAUSE I
AM WITHOUT A COLLEGE EDUCATION. I HAVE SPENT THE MAJORITY OF MY MARRIED LIFE
BEING ^ WIFE AND MOTHER. I HAVE BEEN FORCED TO REMAIN AT HOME DUE TO HAVING
CHILDREN WITH ASTHMA AND ILLERGTES, AND I DO NOT REGRET IT FOR A MOMENT. THERE
ARC MANY TIMES THAT I HAVE HAD TO RUN TO SCHOOLS TO TAKE CARE OF EMERGENCIES
THAT THE SCHOOL WAS NOT PREPARED TO DEAL WTTH. WE HAVE DONE WITHOUT MANY
EXTRAS, BUT WHAT A PAYBACK I HAVE HAD. UP UNTTI THEIR FATHER'S RETURN FROM THE
GULF, I HAD MANAGED TO RAISE RELATIVELY HAPPY CHILDREN. THEY KNEW NO MATTER
WHAT, MOM WAS THERE. IF THERE WAS AN EMERCENCY, I WAS NO MORE THAN A PHONE CALL
AWAY. Now I AM WONDERING HOW I CAN FEED MY FOUR CHILDREN AND PAY BILLS ON
MINIMUM WAGE. THIS IS HOW WE HAVE OCCN REPAID FOR MY HUSBAND'S SERVICE TO THIS
COUNTRY.
WHAT DOES GULF WAR SYNDROME MEAN TO FAMILIES AROUND THE WORLD? T AM FORCED
TO SIT HERE AND WATCH THE MAN I HAVE SPENT 17 YEARS WITH DETERIORATE. HIS
SYMPTOMS NOW ARE: CHEST PAIN, SHORTNESS OF BREATH WHICH HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED AS
COPD (CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE), OPEN SORCO, MEMORY LOSS, COGNITIVE
PROBLEMS (MOST OFTEN HE CANNOT COMPREHEND WHAT WE ARE SAYING TO HIM), DIARRHEA
THAT HAS LASTED FOR 4 YEARS, PHOTOSENSITIVITY, RINGING IN THE EARS, EXCESSIVE
WEIGHT GAIN (ALL AROUND HIS MIDDLE), NUMBNESS IN HIS HANDS, FEET, AND FOREHEAD,
SEVERE HEADACHES WHICH TURN HIS EYES, EYELIDS, AND FOREHEAD DRICHT RED, MUSCLE
AND JOINT PAIN (MOST DAYS Ht HAS ALOT OF DIFFICULTY WALKING), MOOD SWINGS,
ANGER, RAGE, NIGHT SWEATS, AND NOW HE HAS BEGUN TO STOP DREATHING OCCASICNALLY
FEB-23-95 THU 08:28 PM VFSN GinaBrown
216 457 1923
P.05
WHILE HE IS SLEEPING. BUT WE ARE BY NO MEANS THE ONLY FAMILY OUT THERE
SUFFERING LIKE THIS. THERE ARE THOUSANDS AND THE LIST CONTINUES TO GROW.
MY CHILDREN HAVE NOT BEEN WITHOUT MEDICAL PROBLEMS, AS I STATED BEFORE, MY
OLDEST SON HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH MYCOPLASMA PNEUMONAE, WHICH HAS RECURRED FOR
THREE STRAIGHT YEARS, THE INTERESTING THING ABOUT THAT IS THAT MYCOPLASMAS IN
ONE PROBLEM THAT MANY OF THE VETS OF THE WAR HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH. ALL FOUR
OF MY BABIES HAVE HAD OPEN SORES AND RASHES THAT HAVE MADE OUR DOCTOR SHAKE HIS
HEAD. AFTER SCRAPINGS AND TESTING ON THE SORES, HE HAS BEEN UNABLE TO COME UP
WITH A DIAGNOSIS. ALL FOUR OF MY CHILDREN HAVE USED MORE THAN THEIR ALOTTED 8
SICK DAYS FROM SCHOOL. THEIR IMMUNE SYSTEMS SEEM TO BE DOWN, AND THE SCHOOLS
CALL ME AND TFLL ME THAT THEY ARE GOING TO BE FORCED TO CONTACT THE COUNTY BOARD
OF EDUCATION IF THEY MISS MUCH MORE. BUT WHAT CAN I DO? WHEN THEY GET ILL,
VOMIT, RUN TEMPERATURES, AND THF LIKE, I FEEL THAT I WOULD BE SORELY LACKING AS
A MOTHER TO SEND THEM TO SCHOOL. AI so I CANNOT TAKE THEM TO THE PHYSICIAN
EVERYTIME COMETHING COMES UP. I AM STTLI PAYING ON BILLS INCURRED FROM TESTING
OF MY HUSBAND WIICN THE VA REFUSED US AN APOINTMENT. IF THE KIDS HAVE AN ILLNESS
I CAN HANDLE WITHOUT THE DOCTOR, I HAVE TO DO IT THAT WAY.
I HAVE SPENT THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS TRAVELLING TO THE DOCTOR AND
GYNECOLOGIST. AT FIRST THEY THOUGHT I HAD LEUKEMIA. THOSE TESTR CAME OUT
NEGATIVE. THEN I WAS TESTED FOR CERVICAL CANCER. THOSE TESTS WERE ALSO
NEGATIVE. EVERY MONTH, I BLEED AT LEAST 3 WEEKS. THE GYNOCOLOGIST DOESN'T KNOW
WHY, I HAVE BEEN TESTED, PROBED, SONOGRAMMED, SCRAPED AND CUT. AND THEY CAN'T
FIGURE OUT WHERE THE BLEEDING IS COMING FROM. I HAVE CEVERE PAIN IN MY LEFT STOE
THAT THEY THOUGHT WAS CAUSED BY AN INFECTION OF SOME TYPE. A TEN DAY ROLIND OF
ANTIBIOTICS PROVED TO DO NOTHING. INTIMACY IS PAINFUL. Now THEY ARE TALKING
ABOUT SURGERY. THAT IS SOMETHING THAT 18 NOT AN OPTION NOW. WE CANNOT AFFORD
IT. WE HAVE NO MONEY THAT WILL BE COMING IN.
I HAVE OPENED THE MOST INTIMATE PARIS OF MY LIFE UP TO OTHERS TO EDUCATE
THEM. I HAVE EXPLAINED THAT MY HUSBAND'S SEMEN HAS CAUSED ME TO HAVE SEVERE
INFECTIONS, BURNING AND PAIN THAT HAS LASTED FOR WEEKS. I HAVE TOLD OTHERS OF
FEB-23-95 THU 08:29 PM VFSN GineBrown
216 457 1923
P.06
THE EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS THAT MY CHILDREN HAVE HAD HAVING TO WATCH THEIR DAD
BECOME ILL. I HAVE TOLD OF THE TEARS THEY HAVE SHED WHEN WE CONTINUALLY HAVE TO
SAY THAT DAD CAN'T PLAY WITH THEM ANYMORE BECAUSE HE IS SICK. I HAVE LET
EVERYONE KNOW WHAT IT IS LIKE TO WATCH YOUR HUSBAND GO INTO A RAGE BECAUSE HE
COULDN'T FIND A CERTAIN SHOW ON TV. I HAVE TOLD THEM HOW MANY TIMES I HAVE
CRIED BECAUSE ALL THE PROMISES BEING MADE CONTINUE TO BE BROKEN. I WANT TO
SCREAM TO EVERYONE "IS ANYONE LISTENING TO ME?"
SOMEONE HAS TO LOOK AT THE THOUSANDS OF FAMILIES OUT THERE LIKE US. You
HAVE TO ASK YOURSELVE WHAT IT WOULD BE LIKE TO BE AFRAID TO SLEEP SOUNDLY FOR
TEAR THAT YOUR HUSBAND WOULD STOP BREATHING. YOU HAVE TO BE HONEST ENOUGH WITH
YOURCELF TO ASK. WHAT YOU WOULD DO IF YOU WEREN'T SURE YOU COULD FEED YOUR
CHILDREN IN A WEEK, OR A MONTH. T FIND THAT LATELY I HAVE BEEN ASKING WHAT WE
HAVE DONE TO MAKE GOD so ANGRY AT us. T FIND THAT I AM so ANGRY THAT MY COUNTRY
WOULD FOR3AKE THE VERY SOLDIERS THAT THEY TRUSTED TO PROTECT OUR FREEDOM.
FREEDOM AT WHAT PRICE?
To ME THIS SEEMS LIKE PREMEDITATED MURDER. THE MURDER OF THOUSANDS OF
VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES, WAR IS HELL, AND WHEN MY HUSBAND SIGNED ON THAT
DOTTED LINE, WE KNEW THAT HE MAY NOT COME BACK. WE AI so KNEW THAT SOMETHING
LIKE THIS COULD HAPPEN TO HIM. BUT THIS FAMILY IS NOT A PACKAGE DEAL. MY
CHILDREN WERE NOT A PART OF THE BARGAIN. BUT WE ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT IF
SOMETHING LIKE THIS WERE 10 HAPPEN TO HIM, WE WOULD BE TAKEN CARF OF. INSTEAD,
WE HAVE TO SIT BACK AND READ ARTICLES ABOUT HOW OUR COVERNMENT HAS AI OWED IRAQI
REFUGEES IN AND GIVEN THEM HUMES, TRAINING, AND HCALTH CARE. THAT TS A BITTER
PILL TO SWALLOW.
IT IS A SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS WHEN MY HUSBAND SAYS TO ME THAT HIS FAMTLY
WOULD HAVE BEEN FURTHER OFF HAD HE LOST HIS LIFE DURING THE WAR. HE FEE1 S THAT
AT LEAST WE WOULD HAVE BEEN TAKEN CARE OF THEN.
AT ONE OF SENATOR REIGLE'S HEARINGS I ATTENDED IN WASHINGTON, I HEARD
SOMEONE SAY "lT's CHEAPER TO BURY THEM THAN TO DIAGNOSE THEM AND TREAT THEM."
How SAD. How PROPHETIC. How PATHETIC!