A radioactive issue

by Daniel Colbert, Cavalier Daily Opinion Columnist
ANYONE familiar with the anarchist punk band Anti-Flag would be confused to see the group standing next to a member of Congress, promoting a common goal. On March 24th, that was exactly the scene as Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Wa., announced the start of an online petition aimed at convincing Congress to pass his bill insisting that the government investigate the harmful effects of depleted uranium munitions used by American troops. His bill is a much-needed start towards ending a policy that may be seriously affecting the health of civilians and American soldiers.

Depleted uranium is used in bullets and shells because it is a very heavy metal and can penetrate most armaments. These munitions have been used in both Iraq wars, the Kosovo conflict and in training in Puerto Rico. It is created as a byproduct of nuclear reactions and was, according to McDermott, "simply being thrown away" until the military found a great place to dispose of it -- other countries! In truth there are only three sites in the United States capable of handling depleted uranium. As Chemistry Prof. Carl Trindle noted, "it wouldn't be something you'd want in a landfill."
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