Operation Ivy
US Atomic Veterans
Lucas J. Montoya
Lucas J. Montoya sent email about his duty at Operation Ivy.
From: "LUCAS MONTOYA" lmontoya3234@msn.com
To: pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: Operation Ivy
Date: Thu, 15 Dec 2005
Dear Mr. Whittle,
My name is Lucas J. Montoya. I was stationed on the USS Yuma ATF-94 during Operation Ivy when Mike was detonated on Nov.1,1952. I was an Engineman 3rd. Class.
During the actual test we were
told to go topside to witness the event. What I experienced was basically what others have described in the testimonials they wrote about. I read many of the testimonials on your web site and used them in my claim against the VA for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). The testimonials plus my stressor statements and other related tests, and many other undertakings I had to endure, finally got me a 100% disability rating as of Nov. 2002.
How strange that 50 years after the event I finally found out what was wrong with me. I have a
lesion in my brain,and a lump in my thyroid gland. I suffer a loss of balance, dizziness, headaches, nauseousness and fatigue.
I have had MRI's of the brain,sonargram of my thyroid and other tests. Thankfully, doctors have determined
that I am cancer free to this point. I have regular tests, and follow-up appointments with my doctor.
The VA has conducted an Ionizing Radiation Review on me. That review determined I was doing fine.
My wife and I lost a baby girl on Feb,7,1954. She was conceived during the month of May 1953. This was only 6 months after the test of Mike(Operation Ivy). Our other children, born in 1953 and 1957 have experienced various health problems. My belief is that radiation has caused so many of our health problems throughout the years.
I have been a member of the NAAV for some years now. I am looking forward to attending the meeting to be held next year.
I also want to add that a shipmate of mine on the Yuma died of cancer this past May.2005. His name was Jesse Alderete. He was73 years old.
During those years of 1951/1953 the Yuma also saw extensive duty in the Korean War with 2 battle stars.
Lucas J. Montoya
Email: lmontoya3234@msn.com
Keith Whittle
December 18, 2005
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