In one case army vehicles were used to trigger mines loaded with VX nerve agent, a chemical that is designed to cause death within 15 minutes of exposure. In another example, civilians in Hawaii, and possibly Alaska and Florida, were exposed to biological agents, including E. coli bacteria.

According to the Pentagon’s report, as many as 5,500 GIs and thousands of civilians were exposed, some without their knowledge. More than 50 veterans have filed claims of health problems due to exposure to the lethal chemical and biological weapons.

Jack Alderson, a retired Navy officer who was involved in the testing told the Washington Post that illnesses related to the tests have caused the death of several shipmates in recent years. "I’m relieved it’s coming out." Alderson said. "I’m angry that so many of my guys have died."  
 
 
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