The Tularosa Basin Downwinders are the untold numbers of people exposed to radioactive fallout from the very first nuclear test in the US. This test was conducted at the Trinity site in New Mexico on July 16, 1945. Codenamed “Trinity,” this secret test was part of the Manhattan Project which developed the first atomic bomb. From this blog, you will learn more about the Tularosa Basin Downwinders and the health impacts of exposure to atomic radiation.
The Untold Story of the Tularosa Basin Downwinders
At the time of the nuclear test, residents living in and around the Tularosa Basin in New Mexico had no idea that their health and well-being was in danger. The government did not provide any warnings about potential health risks associated with the detonation of an atomic bomb. Instead, afterwards, people were told that the resulting blast flash and noise were due to explosives and firearms being used in the area.
Sadly, because of the extraordinary force of the test blast, the resulting contaminated shot straight up and then outwards, forming the iconic mushroom cloud most people are familiar with. The fallout area from the 20-kiloton bomb extended for more than 200 miles, coating cattle, water, vegetables and other food sources.
Health Problems for Tularosa Basin Downwinders
This exposure to radiation had devastating consequences for both health and for the environment. Many Downwinders in New Mexico, Utah and other areas of spread-out exposure have developed radiation-related health conditions, including cancer.
In fact, birth defects and stillbirths became common in New Mexico after the Trinity Test. There were countless people living within a 12-mile radius of the testing site. The downwind area, where radiation could easily spread via wind currents, extended to an inhabited radius of about 150 miles.
Finally, Tularosa Basin Downwinders have documented changes in their very DNA. Genes mutated due to radiation exposure. Those changes in cellular DNA have been passed down to children and grandchildren.
The Downwinders and their families have been fighting for recognition, compensation and justice for decades. They want acknowledgement of the harm caused by the government’s actions and financial support for medical treatment. However, despite numerous studies showing increased cancer rates and health issues in the affected areas, the federal government has not taken full responsibility or provide adequate compensation.
The legacy of nuclear testing in Tularosa Basin continues to haunt generations of Downwinders. Many have died from radiation-related illnesses. Furthermore, those who survived continue to suffer from various health issues, such as thyroid disease, leukemia and other forms of cancer.
No Compensation Yet for Tularosa Basin Downwinders
Tularosa Basins residents, however, have received no such designation, monetary compensation or other benefits. Despite this incongruity, these Downwinders have continued to fight for recognition and compensation for the harm caused by the Trinity nuclear test back in 1945. They have formed organizations, such as the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium, and bring attention to their cause through events such as the annual Candlelight Vigil.
The Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium has also worked with scientists to gather evidence of radiation exposure and its effects on residents’ health. This includes conducting a comprehensive health survey. This survey has revealed high rates of cancer, birth defects and other serious health and wellness concerns among those living near the Trinity test site.
In addition, the consortium has pushed for legislation at both state and federal levels to provide compensation and recognition for Downwinders in New Mexico. While some progress has been made with resolutions passed by local governments and a federal study on the health effects of radiation exposure, much is left to be explored.
Tularosa Basin Downwinders also advocate for long-term healthcare assistance, monitoring of contaminated areas and increased transparency from government agencies regarding the impacts of nuclear tests. Through its efforts and perseverance, the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium has brought attention to an often overlooked aspect of United States history.
Tularosa Basin Downwinders Need Advocacy
To learn more about Downwinders, and in particular the Tularosa Basin Downwinders and legislative and grassroots efforts on their behalf, call the Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders® at 1-855-631-7197. Our phones are staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. You also may request more information here.
We have helped many Atomic Veterans and Downwinders understand the compensation which may be due them and how to navigate the intricacies of the application and documentation process.
Downwinders® Claims