Operation Just Cause... ...for as long as it takes
The Office of the Special Assistant for Gulf War Illnesses
(OSAGWI)
released today an information paper on the M256-series chemical agent
detector kit. This latest OSAGWI release provides a basic understanding
of
the capabilities, limitations and operating procedures of the detector.
The M256 kit is a manually operated chemical agent detector.
It is
not an alarm; it is a tool used after soldiers have received other
warnings
about the possible presence of chemical warfare agents, and have
responded
by putting on their chemical protective clothing. Proper use of the
M256
enables commanders to determine if chemical warfare agents are present
or
individuals can reduce their protective posture.
The kit is a key component of chemical warfare agent defensive
measures. Issued at the squad level, the M256 kit was first used in
1978,
and later modified to improve the sensitivity of its
nerve-agent-detection
capability.
This information paper complements case narratives that reflect the use
of
M256 kits, particularly a case narrative concerning positive M256 kit
readings during the Gulf War. The information paper being released
today
describes the kit's use and limitations, discusses observations from the
Gulf War, and identifies some of the lessons learned.
This paper, as well as six other information papers, 14 case
narratives and two environmental exposure reports, all relating to the
Gulf
War, are posted on DoD's website,
GulfLINK
Sent in by Veterans News and Information Services
Disclaimer of Endorsement:
Reference herein to any specific commercial products,
process, or service by trade name, trademark,
manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily
constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation,
or favoring by VNIS. The views and opinions of
authors expressed herein do not necessarily state
or reflect those of VNIS, and shall not be used for
advertising or product endorsement purposes.
VNIS is not a government agency and is a sole proprietorship,
own and operated by Christian L. Wilson USN/Ret
