Armed Forces News

Air Force veterans who flew C-123 aircraft that were used during Operation Ranch Hand during the Vietnam War now may qualify for treatment and benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Operation Ranch Hand involved the dispersal of the herbicide Agent Orange, which has been linked to numerous exposure-related illnesses. VA has added 14 medical conditions from which veterans who flew on those planes may suffer – even if they did not necessarily take part in missions in which the defoliant was sprayed. VA estimates that between 1,200 and 1,500 airmen who served as flight, medical and ground-maintenance crews on C-123s may be affected.