10/14/2026
Today, I received a post from a friend concerning "Agent Orange Awareness Month". The following is what I found concerning October. The graphic that was sent to me follows.
October is not the officially designated Agent Orange Awareness Month; the nationally recognized date is Agent Orange Awareness Day on August 10, though some organizations—including local American Legion posts—may hold awareness activities in October.
Official National Recognition
• Agent Orange Awareness Day: August 10 each year.
• This date marks the beginning of U.S. aerial herbicide spraying in Vietnam in 1961. biologyinsights.com
• No federally designated “Agent Orange Awareness Month.”
• Some groups may choose October for campaigns, but it is not an official national observance. biologyinsights.com
American Legion Involvement
The American Legion has long advocated for veterans affected by Agent Orange exposure, including:
• Pressing the VA to recognize additional Agent Orange–linked illnesses such as Parkinson’s disease, ischemic heart disease, and certain leukemias. The American Legion
• Supporting Blue Water Navy veterans’ claims for exposure-related benefits. The American Legion
• Providing guidance on VA claims, health care eligibility, and the Agent Orange Registry. floridalegion.org
Why Some Posts Observe October
While not nationally designated, October events often focus on:
• Educating veterans about presumptive conditions.
• Promoting VA benefits and registry exams.
• Honoring Vietnam-era veterans and families affected by toxic exposure.
Key Resources
• VA Agent Orange Information: va.gov/agentorange
• American Legion Support: legion.org/serviceofficer for accredited service officers. floridalegion.org
Agent Orange awareness efforts continue to highlight the long-term health impacts of dioxin exposure and the ongoing advocacy work of organizations like the American Legion.