Utah Agent Orange Veterans Foundation
Utah Agent Orange Veterans Foundation
Agent Orange History
In January 1962, Operation Ranch Hand was initiated with two main objectives: to defoliate trees and vegetation for improved visibility during military operations and to eradicate food crops utilized by enemy forces. This operation prominently featured the use of various toxic herbicides, with Agent Orange being the most well-known. Between 1962 and 1971, the U.S. Air Force sprayed approximately 19 million gallons of herbicides in Vietnam, of which over 11 million gallons were specifically Agent Orange.
At the time, American soldiers were assured that these chemicals posed no harm; however, recent findings have revealed the long-lasting and detrimental impacts of these herbicides. It is estimated that over 300,000 U.S. veterans have died due to health complications related to Agent Orange exposure, a number nearly five times greater than the 58,000 American fatalities recorded during the Vietnam War itself. This ongoing situation highlights the enduring consequences of the Vietnam War, affecting individuals and families long after the conflict officially ended.
Our Mission
The Utah Agent Orange Veterans Foundation a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, located in Davis County, Utah. Our mission is to honor Veterans of the Vietnam war who were exposed to the deadly herbicide known as Agent Orange. We are currently raising funds to build a memorial wall to honor the aforementioned veterans. We will be building our memorial within the Sunset City Veterans Park. Unfortunately, the majority of people do not know about that the havoc that Agent Orange has taken on Vietnam veterans. Those exposed have been left with a plethora of health conditions. Along with honoring veterans that have been impacted by Agent Orange, this memorial will serve as a monument to history, a place for the public to learn about our Nation’s past, and as a place for people to reflect and mourn for loved ones lost. The devastation Agent Orange has left behind is far reaching and we aim to provide solace to those who have suffered.
Our Team
Larry L. Kerr – Chairman Board of Directors
Chairman and founder Larry Kerr. Larry served in the United States Air Force between 1965 – 1985. He served boots on the ground in Vietnam, Korea, and Thailand, all areas heavily sprayed with herbicides. Unfortunately, Larry is no stranger to the devastation that Agent Orange causes. Shortly after returning from deployment, Larry had to have an organ removed as a direct result of his exposure to deadly herbicides. Over the years Larry has developed multiple conditions caused by Agent Orange, one of which is an aggressive cancer that he is still battling to this day. Larry’s experience has ignited him with a passion for advocating for other veterans struggling. He has helped countless veterans determine what benefits they are eligible for and in doing so has changed many lives. Here at the Utah Agent Orange Veterans Foundation, we are proud of our tenacious leader and our team is dedicated to making his dream of a memorial for Agent Orange victims a reality.
Hannah L. Turk - Senior Vice President Fundraising
Hannah Turk is a dedicated individual with a deep passion for serving veterans and enhancing their quality of life. As the daughter of a Vietnam veteran, heavily affected by Agent Orange, she is very passionate about UAOVF’s cause. She often says, “My dad is my ‘why’.” Hannah currently serves as Vice President, Board Member, and Fundraising Lead of the Utah Agent Orange Veterans Foundation, where she works tirelessly to raise awareness and resources for Vietnam-era veterans and their families. She is also the Co-Founder and Vice President of The Rivetin’ Rosies Project, empowering women to lead initiatives that improve the lives of veterans and first responders. In addition, Hannah sits on the Board of Directors for the Rocky Mountain Service Dog Project as Family Liaison, helping veterans and families access service dogs that restore freedom and independence. Her community leadership also extends to civic service as a Member of the Sunset City Veterans Day Program Planning Commission. Dedicated to suicide prevention, Hannah is a Licensed QPR Instructor and QPR Certified, offering free training through her nonprofits to veterans and first responders.