Opposition to Navy bombing exercises on the island of Vieques in Puerto Rico is growing stronger as researchers on the island have found toxic levels of heavy metals in crabs, edible plants, and human hair. The Navy has been testing bombs and artillery shells on Vieques for the last six decades, and many islanders believe pollutants released during the military exercises have poisoned their land and bodies. About 3,600 of the island’s 9,400 residents are suing the Navy for compensation for illnesses they claim were caused by military exercises. The Navy disputes the accusations.
