Welcome to the BURN PITS Action Center. This is an information resource for servicemen and servicewomen, their families and others concerned about addressing the damages of the burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"When I first arrived in Iraq, I thought a portion of the base was under attack. We later learned the floating plume was the source of Balad’s signature stench." New York Times

"...Humvees, batteries, unexploded ordnance, gas cans, mattresses, rocket pods, and plastic and medical waste (including body parts, which may explain the arm). Fumes containing carcinogenic dioxins, heavy metals, and particulates, according to an Army–Air Force risk assessment, waft freely across bases." Newsweek

"When the wind had blown dark green plumes from burn pits toward base living areas... long lines formed for sick call, with troops coughing up blood, vomiting and complaining of nausea or burning lungs." Los Angeles Times

"...a likely cause, experts say, of rising numbers of active-duty respiratory and neurological disorders since 2001 to levels above the norm for such a young and fit population." Military Times