Atomic Vets
Synopsis
Eighteen atomic blasts were witnessed by Frank Farmer while serving in the Pacific, as military personnel faced exposure to radioactive contamination.
Synopsis
In the summer of 1946, military personnel gathered at Bikini Atoll for the first post-war atomic tests. Among them was Frank Farmer, who witnessed 18 atomic blasts while serving in the Pacific. The documentary details the experiences of atomic veterans, who were often left in the dark about the risks they faced. Many signed secrecy oaths and later suffered from health issues linked to radiation exposure. Today, efforts continue to secure recognition and compensation for these veterans, as the legacy of their service remains unresolved.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See how soldiers were exposed to radiation without protective gear.
- Meet veterans fighting for recognition of their atomic service.
- Find out about the health effects of atomic testing on military personnel.
Did You Know
- Less than a year after Hiroshima, the military began atomic experiments.
- Hundreds of thousands of military men participated in nuclear tests over 16 years.
- Frank Farmer witnessed 18 atomic blasts while serving in the Pacific.
- Veterans were made to sign a secrecy oath to never discuss their experiences.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the atomic tests at Bikini Atoll designed to test?
Operation Crossroads was designed to test how warships would hold up to a nuclear blast.
How many atomic blasts did Frank Farmer witness?
Frank Farmer witnessed 18 atomic blasts while his ship was in the Pacific.
What is the current status of compensation for atomic veterans?
Two bills are before Congress to extend compensation to atomic veterans, despite the V.A. maintaining that their radiation exposure was minimal.
What are people saying?
Play More Like This
Where else to watch
Related Films
Is this your film?
If you made this film or hold the rights to it, we'd like to talk. We can license it and pay you a share of what it earns.
Comments