Guest Editorial by Cristina Johnson

Recognizing Our Responsibility for Toxic Exposure in Veterans

Every May, National Military Appreciation Month shines a light on millions of individuals and families who have shaped the nation through military service. In Otsego County, New York—as in many communities with long-standing ties to the armed forces—this period is often marked by public acknowledgments and local events. However, while recognition is necessary, the significance of the month should transcend mere ceremonies; it calls for a deeper understanding of what service entails, even after it has ended. And for more than 3,000 veterans in the region, it points to a concerning truth: health issues linked to toxic exposures, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), asbestos, and volatile organic compounds. In this context, National Military Appreciation Month serves as a vital opportunity to advance policy innovations such as the Veterans Exposed to Toxic (VET) PFAS Act to ensure a system that is equipped to address the urgent tolls faced by those who served the country.