Bernard Rostker, special assistant for Gulf War Illnesses
released the first in a series of case narratives related to the
Department's ongoing investigation into Gulf War illnesses. This
particular narrative focuses on the actions of American troops at
Khamisiyah. It specifically discusses the demolitions of
munitions by U.S. forces, the subsequent United Nations Special
Commission (UNSCOM) inspections and the later public inquiry into
the events surrounding this ammunition storage point located in
southern Iraq.
These case narratives are a part of the Defense Department's
continuing effort to inform the public of its efforts to better
understand the nature and possible causes of the illnesses being
experienced by many Gulf War veterans.
This case narrative and future narratives are not intended
as final reports, said Rostker. This is an interim report
about what we currently know about Khamisiyah. Other narratives
about key events and issues surrounding the Gulf War experience
are being prepared and will be released as soon as they are
completed. This report, along with the documentary evidence and
personal interviews will be posted on the GulfLINK Internet site
(/GulfLin
k/) as well as future narratives.
In addition to informing the public, these narratives are
intended to open up a dialogue with Gulf War veterans who may
have additional information that will help DoD more accurately
understand key events. Veterans with additional information or
who can clarify the events at Khamisiyah are encouraged to call
the Gulf War incident hotline at 1-800-472-6719.
Gulf War veterans who are experiencing health problems that
they believe are a result of their service in the Gulf are
encouraged to call one of the toll free numbers to receive a
complete medical evaluation. Those individuals still on active
duty, who are retirees, or affiliated with a Reserve unit can
call the Comprehensive Clinic Evaluation Program at 1-800-796-
9699. Those no longer with DoD, including reserve personnel, can
call the Department of Veterans' Affairs Persian Gulf helpline at
1-800-749-8387.
