WASHINGTON finalizing deal with the Department of Defense to assess potential health risks . Decision reflects experience with Gulf War , spokesman says . The Department of Veterans Affairs says it will study the effects of toxic emissions from burning trash at military installations in Iraq and Afghanistan on veterans , even after the Department of Defense has concluded no long-term effects exist . Veterans blame emissions from burn pits for respiratory problems , skin infections . No long-term danger from smoke from Balad Air Force Base pit , military said in weeks .
WASHINGTON finalizing deal with the Department of Defense to assess potential health risks . Decision reflects experience with Gulf War , spokesman says . Veterans blame emissions from burn pits for respiratory problems , skin infections . No long-term danger from smoke from Balad Air Force Base pit , military said in weeks .