Agent Orange Exposure Compensation
The following is derived from US Department of Veterans Affairs site: https://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/claims-postservice-agent_orange.asp where the complete details of the program are found.
Navy and Coast Guard Ships Associated with Service in Vietnam and Exposure to Herbicide Agents - July 2, 2018
Classification of ships relevant to USS Truxtun Crew members:
Classification IV. Ships operating on Vietnam’s close coastal waters for extended periods with evidence that crew members went ashore
This category includes large ocean-going ships of the Blue Water Navy that conducted a variety of missions along the close coastal waters of Vietnam for extended periods of time. Documentary evidence has been obtained for all ships in this category showing that some crew members actually went ashore. Examples of such vessels include hospital ships, harbor repair ships, mine sweepers, and seaplane tenders. Also included are combat ships, such as destroyers, when evidence shows that crew members went ashore. Because shore activity of some crew members has been documented, any Veteran aboard the ship at the time of documented shore activity will be eligible for the presumption of exposure if that Veteran provides a lay statement of personally going ashore.
USS Truxtun (DLGN-35) sent small boats ashore from Da Nang Harbor on June 2, 1968 and October 25, 1969
Veterans' Diseases Associated with Agent Orange
VA assumes that certain diseases can be related to a Veteran's qualifying military service. We call these "presumptive diseases."
VA has recognized certain cancers and other health problems as presumptive diseases associated with exposure to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service. Veterans and their survivors may be eligible for benefits for these diseases.
For the complete list of diseases visit: https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange/conditions/index.asp
Evidence Needed
If you are seeking service connection for one of the diseases VA presumes is associated with exposure to herbicides during service, VA requires the following:
- service in Vietnam or at or near the Korean demilitarized zone during the dates shown above, or
- exposure to herbicides in a location other than the Vietnam or the Korean demilitarized zone.
More Information
Check VA's Guide to Agent Orange Claims to learn more about how to establish eligibility to disability compensation and how much VA pays. You can also call the Agent Orange Help Line at 1-800-749-8387 or send an e-mail to GW/AOHelpline@vba.va.gov. You must provide your name, e-mail address, telephone and/or fax number, and VA file number/Social Security Number. We will do our best to respond within a reasonable amount of time (usually 3 to 10 workdays).