On June 8, the Agent Orange Foundation will visit GI Joes Military "Living History" Museum to award Agent Orange Medals to Vietnam veterans or their surviving family member. The event, which is open to the public and begins at 10:00 am, will also feature participation from Vets to Vets United, represented by board member Dan Vertaro, a veteran support dog program, and counselors from ECU Health to discuss support for aging veterans and caregivers.

The Foundation’s visit aims to recognize veterans affected by Agent Orange, a tactical herbicide used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War to reduce vegetation. The event will highlight the lasting impact of Agent Orange exposure on veterans and their families.

In addition to the medal ceremony, the event will provide resources for veterans and their families. Counselors from ECU Health will offer information on aging, caregiver support, and end-of-life planning, including preneed arrangements, living wills, and Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders. Attendees will receive toolkits covering these critical topics.

A mobile unit from The Vet Center will also be present, providing access to counselors who can assist veterans with various issues. The Vet Center aims to support veterans' mental health and well-being through accessible counseling services.

The Agent Orange Foundation's efforts are part of a broader initiative to bring recognition to Vietnam veterans who were exposed to the toxic herbicide. The Foundation’s mission includes raising awareness about the health effects of Agent Orange, which has been linked to numerous diseases and conditions due to the presence of TCDD, a toxic dioxin classified as a human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The Office of Veteran Affairs extends benefits to the children of veterans exposed to Agent Orange, acknowledging the intergenerational impact of the herbicide. The Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 further extended benefits to veterans who served in affected areas during 1962-1975.

The event at GI Joes Military "Living History" Museum is a continuation of efforts to honor the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans and address the ongoing health challenges they face. Attendees are encouraged to participate and learn more about the resources available to support veterans and their families.