LOCAL BOOK PROBES GOVERNMENT TESTING OF THE 1950S
By Kathleen Baber
In “Radioactive Clouds of Death Over Utah,” Dr. Daniel W. Miles investigates and, as thoroughly as is probably possible, collects known studies, statements and other available information about the period when the U.S. government performed atomic bomb tests in the Nevada desert, which affected Utah and adjacent states in the 1950s. His purpose was to separate fact from fiction and to uncover, once and for all, the truth about what really happened – particularly relating to common local beliefs about government conspiracy and cover-up. I might add that Miles, a college professor, began his research after a student challenged his statements about the atomic testing and asked for proof. Miles set out to find that proof and to locate scientific evidence verifying what many – himself included – had been stating as fact for many years about the atomic testing and subsequent radioactive fallout.
Dr. Miles is forthright with all his information, weighing the pros and cons and comparing conflicting statements with the various studies that are available. It is painfully obvious in studying the information presented in this book that much of what has been believed to be true cannot be proven. In reading the facts and figures, then comparing them with many of the statements made by those involved in the controversy, it must be said there appears to be no firm proof or facts supporting the commonly believed conspiracy theories.
As someone who values truth I am glad to have such a reference; however, I must confess that the jury is still out in my mind regarding many aspects of this controversy – not because of any lack on Dr. Miles’ part. I believe wholeheartedly that he has done a thorough job in gathering all the available data and laying it out for readers to examine for themselves, and the facts, figures and victims do speak for themselves. The problem lies in the human element and the truthfulness of those producing evidence on both sides of the issue. We all see things from our own perspective and, I might add, sincerely believe that our own perspective is right and factual.
I have lost many relatives and friends to cancer and have had it myself, as have many of my neighbors, friends and relatives in the Southern Utah area. But I have become very aware that many other factors can have a hand in the growth of cancerous tumors and the development of significant health problems – “pollutants,” genetics and who knows what. But, having grown up in St. George just a few blocks from Michelle Thomas, who is quoted in Dr. Miles’ book, I can recall counting, as she did, all the cancer victims living within a close proximity. Two of the young cancer victims mentioned in the book, who died in Washington City, were my cousins. Later, my grandmother, who lived there, died of colon cancer, then five years ago my mother died of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and two of my youngest children have had thyroid issues. I could go on and on.
Who is to say what is the truth and how much of any one thing is responsible for health problems? I certainly don’t know the answer. But to anyone who is a sincere truth seeker, I recommend reading this book and weighing it for yourself.
