Ship’s Scuttlebutt

May 16, 2020: Note from Jim Goodspeed, LT, 1963-1966 about Agent Orange.

All Basilone crew members who served on board during Vietnam cruises have been exposed to Agent Orange. They should all register for VA health care and take the Agent Orange screening. Even if they have not been diagnosed with one of the fourteen presumptive disorders they may be affected later in life. 

Presumptive disease may occur as much as 35 years after exposure.  To see the list of presumptive diseases go to: www.va.gov and search on Agent Orange.

 Crew members who want to file an initial claim for an herbicide-related disability can use VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits or work with a VA-recognized Veterans Service Organization to assist with the application process.  Crew members may also contact their state Veterans Affairs Office.

If for some reason this fails or you are having problems getting help, then contact Jim Goodspeed.    Jim is a certified Veteran Service Officer and can provide guidance and counseling to help crew members with this process. Questions may be directed to his email jwgoodspeed@gmail.com.

Please note that Jim’s access is limited and unreliable and it may take him some time to get back to you.

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