Two US military veterans allege illnesses attributed to exposure to toxic substances at the classified ‘Area 52′ near Tonopah Test Range. Despite deteriorating health from radioactive activity, they are denied federal medical benefits, sparking public concern over veterans’ welfare.
Two U.S. military veterans have reported illnesses they attribute to exposure to toxic substances at “Area 52,” a classified site near Tonopah Test Range, about 140 miles from Las Vegas, Nevada. Mark Ely, an Air Force technician, inspected Soviet fighter jets at the site, while Dave Crete served as a military police officer. Both allege that their health deteriorated due to radioactive activity from nuclear bomb tests conducted nearby in the mid-1980s. Ely, aged 63, now suffers from lung scarring, liver cysts, and tumors, whereas Crete deals with respiratory issues, chronic bronchitis, and had a tumor removed from his back.
Despite their service, the men report being unable to obtain federal medical benefits, as their presence at the site is not officially acknowledged. The Department of Defense confirmed their service but did not specify the location. Public awareness of their classified mission has been increasing as more veterans report similar health issues. The federal government has allocated $25.7 billion for Department of Energy employees affected by such conditions, but these benefits do not extend to the veterans from Area 52.
