Project 112/shad

Project 112 (Including Project SHAD)

Project SHAD, an acronym for Shipboard Hazard and Defense, was part of a larger effort called Project 112 which was a comprehensive program initiated in 1962, by the Department of Defense (DoD) to protect and defend against potential chemical and biological warfare threats. Project SHAD encompassed a series of tests by DoD to determine the vulnerability of U.S. warships to attacks with chemical and biological warfare agents, and the potential risk to American forces posed by these agents. Project 112 tests involved similar tests conducted on land rather than aboard ships. Project SHAD involved service members from the Navy and Army and may have involved a small number of personnel from the Marine Corps and Air Force.

DoD continues to release declassified reports about sea- and land- based tests of chemical and biological materials known collectively as "Project 112." The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is working with DoD to obtain information as to the nature and availability of the tests, who participated, duration and agents used.

Any veteran involved in Project SHAD who believes that one or more of their disabilities may have resulted from exposure during testing may file a claim for compensation with VA. For information and assistance on applying for  service-connected compensation  contact the nearest VA Regional Office toll-free at (800) 827-1000. Or, apply on-line at  http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp. For information and assistance by e-mail contact SHADHELPLINE@vba.va.gov.)  Veterans  involved in Project SHAD with health-related questions or concerns can receive information and assistance by calling toll-free (800) 749-8387. Picture of USS Granville S Hall (YAG-40) http://projectshad.com/albums/Ship-pictures/Cats1.sized.jpg