Agent White

Overview

Aerial spraying of defoliants during the Vietnam War

Agent White is a chemical defoliant that was used by the United States military during the Vietnam War. It is part of the "Rainbow Herbicides" group, which also includes the more infamous Agent Orange. Agent White was primarily used to destroy vegetation and forest cover, as well as to eliminate crops that could be used to support enemy forces.

Composition

Agent White is a mixture of two chemicals: 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and Picloram. These chemicals are herbicides that work by mimicking plant hormones, causing uncontrolled growth and eventually killing the plant. Unlike Agent Orange, Agent White does not contain dioxin, a highly toxic compound that has been linked to numerous health issues.

Usage in the Vietnam War

During the Vietnam War, Agent White was used extensively in Operation Ranch Hand, a military operation aimed at defoliating large areas of jungle to reduce cover for Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army forces. The defoliant was sprayed from aircraft, such as the C-123 Provider, over targeted areas.

Environmental and Health Impact

The use of Agent White, like other herbicides, had significant environmental impacts. It led to the destruction of vast areas of forest and agricultural land, disrupting ecosystems and biodiversity. Although Agent White does not contain dioxin, concerns have been raised about the potential health effects of its components, particularly picloram, which can persist in the environment and contaminate water sources.

Legacy

The legacy of Agent White and other herbicides used during the Vietnam War continues to be a subject of study and controversy. Efforts have been made to remediate affected areas and address the health concerns of veterans and Vietnamese civilians exposed to these chemicals.

Related pages

• Agent Orange
• Rainbow Herbicides
• Vietnam War
• Herbicide
• Operation Ranch Hand