On this 16th Annual National Day of Remembrance, the Office of the Ombudsman would like to take this opportunity to honor our nation's nuclear weapons complex and uranium workers.
Those who worked in support of nuclear weapons production, research, and development during the past 80+ years have played a vital role in our national security. These workers played a key role in ending World War II. These workers helped win the Cold War. These workers helped establish the United States as a global leader in science, technology, and engineering. As a result, the United States continues to be a global leader in these fields today.
From the beginning of the Manhattan Project, many workers developed disabling or fatal illnesses from their exposure to beryllium, ionizing radiation, and other hazards unique to nuclear weapons production and testing. Far too often, these workers did not receive adequate protection from those occupational hazards, nor were they properly informed about the dangers of the work. Since 2000, the United States has endeavored to support these workers and their families through the implementation of the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act.
Since 2004, the Office of the Ombudsman has offered guidance and assistance to sick nuclear weapons workers engaged with this federal workers' compensation program.
Each year, as we meet with sick nuclear weapons workers, uranium workers, and their families, we witness their ongoing sacrifice and dedication to our country. We commonly encounter individuals with their own health issues who have navigated the workers' compensation claims process for themselves and then immediately turn to help others in their community who are experiencing similar challenges. And through our connections with these workers and their families we have witnessed countless examples of their unyielding commitment and service to one another.
The National Day of Remembrance allows our nation to stand together in common purpose to honor these workers and their families. Today, we rededicate ourselves to fulfilling our obligation to those who unknowingly risked exposure to radiation and toxic substances while tirelessly working to build and maintain our nuclear defense. And to all families who have experienced the loss of a loved one who worked in service to our nation, we honor and thank you.