My father was also in the 1980 commsq from 68 to 69. He died from a heart attack in 1984 at the age of 42. he served 21 years in the USAF. I have spina bifida along with about 10 other birth defects which are a proven outcome in children from vets exposed to AO. However since my father was only at Takhli I am constantly denied my benefits. My Dav rep is now asking for a hearing for me in Washington. I will have to go there and plead my case. They now have a new rule. if you can give enough doubt that he was near the perimeter of the base and they can't prove he was not there, they have to find in benefit of the veteran.Since my father worked on the comm lines in I'm sure every building on base. My DAV rep thinks we have a great chance. I am going to get my congressman on this too and anyone else I can find in my district.