Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D. Or.) has done his part to get to the bottom of the sad story of Oregon National Guard soldiers exposed to toxic chemicals at the KBR Qarmat Ali facility. Rep. Blumenauer previously asked the Secretary of Defense to provide information about the agreements–both for KBR and other contractors.
In today’s Oregonian, Julie Sullivan reports here that the Army has refused to produce the information because it remains confidential. The response from the Army is a bit perplexing. The Project RIO contract, which was declassified, contains an indemnification provision. So I can’t help but wonder what is classified. Maybe there are other documents the Army is withholding?
It’s all a bit curious.
The soldiers appreciate Rep. Blumenauer’s efforts. He is helping to get to the bottom of things. He’s raising important questions about government contracts, and contractors and oversight.
For my part, I remain focused on KBR. That’s my job. Lots of work ahead to prepare for trial. But we’re on it.
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