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Operation Crossroads U.S. Atomic Veterans Melbourne J. LeMaitre
Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2000 Keith: I was the Navy Mail Clerk on board the Prinz Eugen. After leaving the states for Pearl Harbor we broke down and a sea anchor was put out to slow down the drift.We had to throw amunition out the port holes because the magazines were getting to hot because the boiler could not keep it cool. The captain requested a sea going tug to get us to Pearl, but none came.We finially got under way again. Just outside of Pearl we were met by the tug, but Captain Graubart brought the ship in under her own power. After some repairs were made we left for Bikini. Just before the first test we were transfered to the Rockingham. I remember we were not given any goggles but were told to lean forward and cover our eyes until we were told to look. It was only a few seconds. I was back on board the Prinz Eugen after test Able to check for damages where the ships offices were. I was not given any badge of any kind and did not see any, or any geiger counters. We found one compartment slightly bulged because an air vent had been left open. After returning to the Rockingham I had a blood test. Two days later they requested another one, with no explanation as to why. There were rumors that there was supposed to be a third test but it was called off because the support ships were getting so hot that they did'nt know if they would be allowed back in port. I started having problems with my teeth after that. Years later my Dentist could not understand why my teeth were dying and at such a fast rate. I have had skin cancer on my forehead removed that was malignant, ongoing esophagus problems and also are having prostate problems now. I was a strong believer in fighting for and protecting my Country. It was something that was very important to all of us. But when your Country puts its service men and women in a situation like this under the guise that it was perfectly safe and years later they act like you didn't even exist, something is wrong. We were all willing to give our lives for our country but where is the justice for all. Melbourne J. LeMaitre
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