House Approves Berkley Resolution Honoring U.S. Nuclear Defense Workers

Press Release

The House today unanimously approved a resolution authored by Congresswoman Shelley Berkley recognizing October 30, 2009 as a day of remembrance for America's nuclear defense workers, including employees of the Nevada Test Site located 90 minutes outside Las Vegas.

"This Friday, October 30, our nation will salute the hundreds of thousands of men and women who built and maintained America's nuclear defense capacity for more than 60 years. That includes employees from Las Vegas and other local communities who worked at the Nevada Test Site and placed their health and safety at risk in order to ensure a strong and effective nuclear defense program," Berkley said.

"We also recognize many who worked to enhance this nuclear capacity -- from scientists to support staff -- were unwittingly exposed to radiation, beryllium and other toxic substances and hazards. Sadly, large numbers of these men and women have since developed diseases like cancer as a result of their time working at the Nevada Test Site or facilities in Georgia, Kentucky, New Mexico, Ohio, Texas and elsewhere," said Berkley.

Text of Berkley Resolution

Supporting the goals and ideals of a national day of remembrance on October 30, 2009, for American nuclear weapons program workers and uranium miners, millers, and haulers.

Whereas hundreds of thousands of men and women have served this Nation in building its nuclear defense since World War II;

Whereas these dedicated American workers paid a high price for their service and have developed disabling or fatal illnesses as a result of exposure to beryllium, ionizing radiation, toxic substances, and other hazards that are unique to the production and testing of nuclear weapons;

Whereas these workers were put at individual risk without their knowledge and consent in order to develop a nuclear weapons program.

Whereas these patriotic men and women deserve to be recognized for their contribution, service, and sacrifice towards the defense of our great Nation; and

Whereas, on May 20, 2009, the Senate passed S. Res. 151, designating a national day of remembrance on October 30, 2009, for nuclear weapons program workers: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives--

(1) supports the goals and ideals of a national day of remembrance for American nuclear weapons program workers and uranium miners, millers, and haulers; and

(2) encourages the people of the United States to support and participate in appropriate ceremonies, programs, and other activities to recognize a national day of remembrance for past and present workers in America's nuclear weapons program.

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