The article discusses the experiences of soldiers who have fired various weapons such as mortars during their military training and the potential long-term impact on their health, specifically related to traumatic brain injuries. Soldiers describe developing symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, confusion, memory issues, and emotional disturbances after firing thousands of mortar rounds. Despite experiencing these symptoms, many soldiers have not received a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury and have been treated for individual symptoms instead.
There is growing evidence that the blasts generated from firing weapons like mortars can cause brain injuries. The Pentagon has identified some potential risks in specific circumstances but is uncertain about the impact of routine exposure to lower-strength blasts from common weapons like mortars. Soldiers who have experienced these symptoms believe there is a pattern indicating possible traumatic brain injuries resulting from continuous exposure to blast waves. However, due to the lack of physical evidence that can be detected during clinical evaluations, diagnosing these injuries remains challenging.
For many soldiers, the symptoms of traumatic brain injuries persisted and interfered with daily life even though they never saw combat. Soldiers sought medical help from the Army and Veterans Affairs but were often not diagnosed with a brain injury. Instead, they received treatment for individual symptoms like headaches, anxiety, and sleep issues. The lack of a definitive diagnostic tool for traumatic brain injuries contributes to the invisibility of these injuries in official records and makes it difficult for soldiers to receive the appropriate care and support they need.
Former soldiers who fired mortars in the 1980s and 1990s also reported similar symptoms and difficulties in their daily lives following their military service. These soldiers, like Jordan Merkel and Todd Strader, experienced memory issues, concentration problems, and emotional disturbances after being exposed to blast waves from firing mortars extensively during their service. Despite seeking help from the VA, they were not diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries and were often treated for PTSD instead.
Soldiers like Sergeant Michael Devaul are now fighting to have the military recognize the impact of firing mortars on their brain health. Devaul’s experiences include struggling with thinking, memory, concentration, and emotional stability after years of firing mortars. He has faced challenges in his civilian job and personal life due to his symptoms and is now being evaluated for traumatic brain injury by the military. However, he struggles to receive a diagnosis that would qualify him for medical retirement benefits if his injuries are deemed service-related.
In conclusion, the article sheds light on the potential long-term impact of firing weapons like mortars on soldiers’ brain health. Despite experiencing symptoms consistent with traumatic brain injury, many soldiers have not been diagnosed or received appropriate care. The challenges in diagnosing these injuries highlight the need for further research and understanding of the effects of blast exposure on soldiers’ health. Meanwhile, soldiers like Sergeant Devaul continue to advocate for recognition and support for service-related injuries to ensure they receive the help they need.
