Acknowledgements

I would like to acknowledge my younger sister, Gene (Jean) Whitmore Marsh. She was 18 months old when Will left for Bikini and 14 years old when he died. Her life, as well as mine, was impacted by Will’s decision to participate in Operation Crossroads. Gene became an advanced practice nurse and eventually obtained a Ph.D. in clinical nursing research. Her contribution to public health, the care of vulnerable populations, teaching, conducting research, and her work at the university level in Kenya are commendable. Gene is an Associate Professor Emerita at the University of Colorado College of Nursing. She relates the course of her professional life to the impact of Will’s Operation Crossroads experiences and his probable illness and subsequent death from radiation exposure.

Thank you West Cooper of West Design Tech. Without West’s support and technical expertise, I would not have been able to share the Bikini images, essays, videos and the many links on my website with you. No matter what I have asked West to do, he has always found a way to do it. He has also provided the explanations I needed to feel confident that the website would successfully convey my thoughts and ideas to you, my viewers.

I am grateful to CENTER for awarding the Bikini Project the 2021 Project Launch Grant. CENTER is a Not-For-Profit organization that supports photographers and socially and environmentally engaged lens based projects. The grant provides financial support and professional development opportunities. In the future, I would like to visit the Marshall Islands and to meet the survivors and descendants of Operation Crossroads who live there today. The Launch Grant will help to cover the expense of travel, logistics and translation. The grant also offers many opportunities to share my work, and the funding will help to facilitate these opportunities when they arise.

Sosylina Maddison, the Coordinator for the Bikini Coalition, arranged the interviews with the Bikini descendants and offered her office as a place to conduct the interviews and make photographs. She also invited me to participate in the Atoll Stroll at the Bikini booth. She provided logistical support while I was in Springdale, Arkansas and has been a good friend. I also want to thank Eldon Alik, Consul General for the Republic of the Marshall Island, for his support and interest in the Bikini Project. Melisa Laelan, Director, Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese, has also offered encouragement and interest in the Bikini Project.

The Marshallese and especially the Bikini people are known for their kindness and hospitality. I consider it a privilege to have met these people. I am thankful for their willingness to share their stories and the stories of their families.