Vets Learn About 'Agent Orange' At Seminar

(This story was posted by Joe Dowd; it was written by Heather Doyle.)

Covers with the names of American wars emblazoned on the side bobbed up and down as veterans nodded at Rep. Steve Israel's seminar Friday.

The seminar, held for dozens of vets at the Syosset VFW, educated vets who were exposed to Agent Orange, a harmful herbicide found to have devastating side effects for soldiers who came in contact with it during the Vietnam War.

"This morning was about solutions, educating veterans about Agent Orange, and what they can do to get help," said Israel, D-Dix Hills.

Doctors and experts in veteran affairs offered options for support, both mental and physical, for veterans struggling with post-war complications.

"The best thing you can do is gather all the information you have, like your records, an bring it to us so we can help," said Kelly Chicko of Veterans' Affairs, who told veterans of the many signs they are feeling effects of Agent Orange.

The conversation soon turned toward PTSD, an effect of battle felt by countless veterans.

"I've been overseas three times and I can tell you, Fourth of July was hard for me after my second tour," said Dr. Ellen Werns, who encouraged veterans to take closer looks at their mental and physical health to be able to communicate with their doctors.

"You've spent your whole lives busy, raising families, and now you've got time on your hands," said resident PTSD specialist Bill Galick. "When you have time on your hands, memories come back."

Israel wrapped up the ceremony by encouraging vets to spread the word that help is out there.

"We can try to get you're help you need and sometimes we can't always get you the disability rating you believe you're entitled to, but what we cannot tolerate is people go didn't even know that these people do the work they do."

Veterans who want to get help or have questions about options they have can contact local VFWs for more information.