Depleted Uranium in Kosovo

On December 20, 1990, a message was sent to Logistics Assistance Representatives (LAR's) deployed to the Gulf theater. The message advised them on proper assessment, repair and recovery techniques for DU-contaminated equipment.

"The number of personnel who take part in the vehicle recovery should be kept at an absolute minimum. They are to be dressed in protective coveralls, gloves and rubberized boots, and they are to also wear the M25 or M17A2 protective mask with M13A2 element and the accompanying head covers (ie Mission Oriented Protective Posture [MOPP] level 4). The coverall pant legs are to be worn over the rubber boots and sealed with tape at the ankles. Likewise, the sleeves are to slipped over the gloves and taped. The edges of the hood are to be draped over the coveralls and taped to them and the place where it contacts the respirator. Also, any remaining openings are to be sealed with tape. (OSAGWI, p.74)."

"..they could wipe their hands in the dust and lick their fingers and and not have any health problems..." (Paraphrasing Noami Harley, RAND, before the Presidential Special Oversight Board when discussing the picture below, July 13, 1999.)