Mustard gas exposure
qualifies for claim

Answer: The Department of Veterans Affairs invites veterans to file disability compensation claims for any condition related to service, including exposure to mustard agents and Lewisite.

The VA launched an awareness campaign in 1993 about benefits for veterans exposed to chemical warfare materials. The tests were designed to evaluate clothing, ointments and equipment that would protect American troops from mustard-agent attacks.

They were exposed to mustard agents, which includes sulfur mustard and nitrogen mustard, and Lewisite, which is a blister-producing chemical that contains organic arsenic.

According to the Department of Defense, about 4,500 service members were exposed to these agents. The VA is mailing information covering VA medical and financial benefits, data about the effects of exposure to chemical warfare agents, and telephone numbers for VA and Defense Department offices.

Veterans or their survivors with questions about these benefits should contact the VA at (800) 827-1000.

Q: When can a combat veteran apply for the two years of free VA health care?

A: The two-year time period begins when the military member is discharged or retires from active duty. The care is designed to meet the medical needs of combat veterans for two years after they leave active duty.

It is expected that during this time veterans' claims for disability compensation for injuries, illnesses or medical conditions will be adjudicated.

If veterans' claims are approved as service-connected, they will be placed in the appropriate priority group and continue to receive care without a co-payment. If a claim is disapproved, veterans might still be able to receive care by making a co-payment for the services.

For more information, contact the VA Medical Center or the VA Honolulu Regional Office at (800) 827-1000.