Like many of you, I am a veteran. My service included a tour of duty in the Blue Waters of Vietnam where I was exposed to the toxic chemical Agent Orange. That exposure resulted in a diagnosis of cancer. I am one of the lucky ones - a survivor, but many of my fellow veterans have not been as lucky.

The signing of the Honoring our PACT Act marks continued progress in fulfilling our nation’s promise to those who have served by finally giving our veterans that have been exposed to toxic burn pits proper access to medical care. I want to thank Joe Courtney for not just supporting this bill, but for his long record of ensuring that veterans get the support they deserve.

Joe previously worked to pass the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act, which made sure that veterans exposed to Agent Orange were treated fairly, whether exposed on land or at sea offshore. There is still much to do, as many still cannot access classified logs that prove their service. I look forward to continuing to work with Joe on this.

When it comes to our veterans, Joe has always been there for those who serve our nation.

MCPO Paul Dillon USN Ret

Gales Ferry