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On January 21, 1968 a B-52 carrying four thermonuclear weapons crashed on the sea ice near Thule Air Base, scattering radioactive material. Under the PACT Act, VA presumes radiation exposure for personnel who took part in the response and cleanup between January 21 and September 25, 1968.
Sources: VA.gov exposure
Participation in the Thule, Greenland B-52 crash response (January 21 to September 25, 1968) is a radiation-risk activity added by the PACT Act, so the radiation presumptive conditions apply.
See the full Ionizing Radiation (Atomic Veterans)presumptive conditions →With qualifying service and a current diagnosis of one of these, the VA presumes the service connection. You still file a claim.
Source: VA.gov. Presumptive eligibility changes as new laws take effect and depends on your specific service; confirm current eligibility with the Exposure Checker or a free VSO.
Educational content, not professional advice
This article is published by Military Transition Toolkit for educational and planning purposes. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice. VA rating criteria, benefits, and regulations change — verify anything benefits-affecting against VA.gov, 38 CFR Part 4, or a VA-accredited representative (VSO, agent, or attorney) before filing.
MTT is a veteran-owned planning tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, or any military branch.