SAN ANTONIO – In recognition of Agent Orange Awareness Day, San Antonio City Hall will be lit orange on Wednesday.
Agent Orange Awareness Day marks the day when the US began using toxic herbicides during the Vietnam War to clear leaves and vegetation for military operations, which has had lasting health consequences for Vietnam Veterans, a press release said.
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Since then, veterans have filed claims with the VA after developing Type 2 Diabetes, certain cancers, Parkinson’s Disease, and finding birth defects in their children years after their service in the war, the release said.
“Millions of Americans bravely served in the Vietnam War, but when some of these service members returned home, they began a new battle–fighting illnesses related to Agent Orange exposure,” said District 8 Councilman Manny Pelaez, who requested the lighting.
In addition to lighting City Hall orange, Pelaez encourages all San Antonians to light a candle or light their porches orange Wednesday evening.
Pelaez also asks the public to consider supporting their favorite Veterans Service Organization or nonprofit that directly supports local veterans and military families who have been impacted by exposure to toxic chemicals used during warfare.