Local Veterans, Politicians Speak Out for Vets Affected with Agent Orange

Veterans and their supporters gathered for a humbling Veterans Day service at the Delaware Valley Vietnam Veteran’s building off Coates Avenue in Bristol on Tuesday to not only honor veterans of all wars but those specifically affected with Agent Orange related illnesses.

The group, which held a presentation inside its headquarters first, gave the microphone to various members of the organization as well as local politicians to speak on the importance in honoring veterans. The event concluded with the release of dozens of orange balloons into Bristol’s night sky.

“When I see these young people here, I think it’s important they know that freedom isn’t free,” Senator Tommy Tomlinson said to the packed crowd Tuesday night. “Not everybody in the world likes us for what we represent and that’s freedom and opportunity for everyone.”

Bucks County’s Director of Veterans Affairs Daniel Fraley said everyone owes so much to the veterans, “Our veterans made a great sacrifice for us and we can’t forget that.”

Fraley even pointed out to the crowd the importance in knowing the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day, saying this day was a time to honor all those that have fought and then returned to civilian life, some with grave emotional and physical problems.

Falls Twp. Board of Supervisors Chairman Bob Harvie, Bristol Township Council members Amber Longhitano and Craig Bowen, as well as representative for Tina Davis and Bensalem Twp. Councilman Bryan Allen were in attendance. Each of the local politicians rose to thank the veterans in a short speech.

Organizers for the DV3 event said it is estimated 20 million gallons of the toxic substance Agent Orange were released over Vietnam during America’s involvement there. Vietnam is a country similar in size to the state of New Jersey.

Those affected by Agent Orange, even children of veterans, suffer from debilitating illnesses including certain cancers, skin issues, as well as diseases like Parkinson’s Disease, Ischemic Heart Disease and Peripheral Neuropathy.

Throughout the group’s recent history, 25 of its members have died, 17 of which, according to organizers were from Agent Orange related issues.

The VA now offers a free Agent Orange Registry Health Exam for those impacted by the toxin.