WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Representative Todd Tiahrt (R-KS) introduced the Atomic Veterans Medal Act, legislation to honor members of the Armed Forces who were exposed to atomic testing between 1945 and 1963.

"These veterans showed courage and incredible personal sacrifice to further the cause of liberty and freedom and deserve recognition," Senator Roberts said. "Their work on the cutting edge of atomic sciences and the advancement of American military technology cannot be understated. They answered the call to duty and they deserve the thanks of a grateful nation."

"Atomic Veterans risked their lives and health in defense of our nation," said Tiahrt. "These veterans served from ground zero of the Nevada test sites, recorded and tracked atomic experiments, patrolled the ground at Hiroshima and Nagasaki—and for decades kept silent about their sacrifice. While we can never fully thank these brave heroes, this long-overdue military medal is one small way to honor their sacrifices and show our nation’s appreciation for their service."

Atomic veterans were exposed to ionizing radiation as a result of participating in a test of atomic weapons conducted by the United States between 1945 and 1963. The legislation introduced today calls on the Secretary of Defense to design and produce a military service medal to honor Atomic Veterans.

Senator Roberts introduced the Atomic Veterans Medal Act of 2009, S. 1128, yesterday in the Senate and Rep. Tiahrt introduced the House of Representatives version of the bill, H.R. 2553.

Senator Roberts is a former Marine and an outspoken advocate of our nation’s veterans and men and women in uniform.

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