Ronald Clark, an 86-year-old Royal Navy veteran from Gloucestershire, who witnessed a nuclear bomb detonation firsthand during Britain’s atomic weapons testing in the 1950s, is urging the government to provide proper compensation to nuclear test veterans. Clark’s harrowing experience during Operation Grapple at Christmas Island left him with lifelong health issues he attributes to radiation exposure.
Between 1952 and 1965, more than 22,000 British servicemen, scientists, and civilians were involved in nuclear tests and related clean-up efforts. Today, only a fraction of these veterans remain, fighting for recognition and justice. Tewkesbury MP Cameron Thomas recently brought Clark’s case to the House of Commons, calling on the government to acknowledge the sacrifices made by these men.
At 19, Clark served as a radio operator working alongside the Royal Air Force. On the day of the test, he describes being exposed to an intense flash so powerful he claimed he could see the bones in his hands. Without adequate protective measures, Clark and others endured radioactive fallout, swimming in contaminated water and consuming affected fish.
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The aftermath for Clark has been devastating: thirteen surgeries, coral poisoning, chronic infections requiring repeated skin grafts, and testicular cancer, among other ailments. Despite decades of health battles and hospitalizations, Clark believes his conditions are tied directly to his service during the nuclear tests.
He appeals to the government to “do the right thing” and honor the contributions and sacrifices of nuclear test veterans. “The Prime Minister talks about protecting veterans, but I don’t see that protection,” Clark stated.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, MP Cameron Thomas urged the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to meet with veterans and review their case for compensation. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner acknowledged the issue’s seriousness and expressed her willingness to facilitate discussions with the veterans.
The MoD confirms ongoing efforts to review records on nuclear test veterans, including sensitive medical data, with an update expected in the summer. While some documents remain classified, the government plans to release declassified materials with appropriate privacy safeguards.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “The government deeply values the contributions of all who participated in the UK nuclear testing programme. We are committed to addressing veterans’ concerns and thoroughly investigating available information on medical testing.”
The campaign for justice continues as surviving nuclear veterans and their families seek recognition for the health challenges caused by their service in the name of national security.