VA: PACT Act helps thousands exposed to toxic fumes during military service

Retired Army Colonel DJ Reyes says that before the PACT Act, it was difficult for veterans to receive benefits to treat health problems likely caused by inhaling toxins. “The burden of proof was on the veteran that he had gotten sick overseas. And that was the problem,” Reyes said. Reyes says he was exposed to burn pits in both Iraq and Afghanistan, where the military dumped trash, debris and even raw sewage.