Gulf War Illness

Gulf War Syndrome is the title given by the media to dramatize the Gulf war related illnesses that service personnel were suffering.

The possible causes of Gulf war Illness consist of exposures to chemical and biological warfare agents. The toxic combination of anti-nerve agent pills and OP's and insecticides, large amount of inoculations, smoke, oil well fires and other infectious diseases all played their part. The symptoms consist of differing combinations of extreme fatigue, joint pain, spinal damage, cancers, heart conditions, muscle aches and spasms, gastro-intestinal disorders, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, fevers, neurological problems, birth defects and memory and concentration problems. Recent studies in America point to brain damage and gene manipulation due to the onslaught of toxins to the body's immune system.

The Gulf war Veterans Association was formed at the end of November 1994 by veterans of the Gulf War, to support and act for all Veterans of that war, whether Army, Navy, RAF or civilian. Membership since that time has now grown to two thousand. These members cover the full spectrum of the armed services plus Royal Feet Auxiliary and civilians both in Britain and abroad as well as those who have joined in memory of their loved ones lost due to the conflict.

All different, but all the same, and all concerned and caring for each other. In 1996 The Gulf war Veterans
Association linked up with the Middle East Forces Veterans Association, who were the original Desert Rats. They have their own contingent of Gulf Veterans. In April 1998 the Gulf war Veterans Association formed a National Branch of the Royal British Legion. As a national branch the Association represent Gulf Legion members world wide including those members still serving in the armed forces. Since July 1991, a further 58,000 troops have served in the same toxic environment and are eligible for support from The Gulf War Veterans Association.

The MOD is conducting three epidemiological studies and is running a medical assessment program to find
out the extent of the damage done to veterans. These started in 1995 and no treatment or information has been given since.

The GVA in November 1996 represented the British Gulf Veterans before the US Senate Congressional Hearings
and remain in close contact with the American Veterans. There are 95 research programs being carried out outside of the military control and the American Government in April 1999 passed a law called " The Act of Presumption" recognizing Gulf War Illness and compensated American veterans.

The GVA is also in contact with other veterans from other coalition countries who took part in the Gulf
War. They are also ill.

To find out more about The Gulf war Veterans Association and to receive a copy of their monthly newsletter " The Sandy Times " please visit the Gulf war Veterans Association web site or contact :