In the intricate tapestry of valor and perseverance, few narratives stand out as profoundly as that of Le Roy and Rosie Torres. Their extraordinary journey, marked by triumph over seemingly insurmountable challenges, has not only captured the hearts of many but has earned them the prestigious title of Caller-Times Newsmakers of the Year. At the center of their remarkable tale is a story interwoven with themes of military service, personal sacrifice, and an unwavering pursuit of justice.
What began as a personal struggle against the perils of toxic burn pits transformed into a collective battle for justice, with Le Roy and Rosie Torres at the forefront. Denied benefits by the Department of Veteran Affairs, they embarked on an inspiring journey of self-advocacy, turning the spotlight on the often-overlooked consequences of burn pit exposure. Standing shoulder to shoulder with them from the beginning was Herrman & Herrman, a steadfast supporter and one of the original donors to their cause.
This narrative, now honored with the recognition of Newsmakers of the Year, unravels the intricacies of the Torres’ journey and highlights the pivotal role played by Herrman & Herrman in propelling forward the cause of injured veterans. Together, they have not only reshaped their own destiny but have become emblematic of resilience, perseverance, and the power of collective action in the face of adversity. Join us in delving into the epic story of the Torres couple, whose heroic journey has left an indelible mark on the fabric of our collective consciousness.
The Call to Action
In 2007, Le Roy Torres, a devoted law enforcement officer and part-time soldier, found himself in Iraq, standing on the front lines. Little did he know that his sense of duty would lead him into a silent enemy’s territory – toxic burn pits. These pits emitted a constant stream of dark, acrid smoke, accompanying him throughout his deployment. The aftermath of his service left him with the ‘Iraqi crud,’ a dangerous precursor to a life-threatening lung disease called constrictive bronchiolitis.
Sadly, the Department of Veteran Affairs denied Le Roy benefits for his sacrifices. Undeterred, Le Roy and his wife Rosie began an incredible journey of self-advocacy. BurnPits360.org emerged as a guiding light, giving veterans a platform to share their stories of suffering due to exposure to these burn pits. What started as Le Roy’s personal struggle soon transformed into a united effort for justice, with veterans joining forces.
Recognizing the urgency and significance of their cause, Herrman & Herrman proudly stepped in as one of the first supporters of BurnPits360. This partnership marked the beginning of a powerful alliance set to bring about change for veterans across the nation.
Le Roy’s experience in 2007, fighting not only on the battlefield but also for recognition and justice, reflects the broader struggle many veterans face. The invisible enemy, the toxic burn pits, not only affected him but numerous others who, through BurnPits360, found a collective voice. This platform became a beacon, amplifying the stories of those who suffered due to burn pit exposure.
Herrman & Herrman’s support was crucial in catalyzing change. By becoming one of the original donors, they helped fund BurnPits360’s mission to raise awareness and advocate for veterans’ rights. This early support became a vital building block in the journey towards justice.
In essence, Le Roy and Rosie’s story is one of resilience and determination against all odds. Their journey, initially a personal struggle, evolved into a collective battle for justice. With BurnPits360 as their rallying point and Herrman & Herrman as steadfast allies, the Torres couple embarked on a mission to transform the narrative for veterans nationwide.
The Struggle for Recognition
The Torres couple faced a tough challenge – a system that took a long time to understand the connection between exposure to burn pits and serious illnesses. Rosie Torres remembers facing many closed doors and bureaucratic obstacles along the way. Despite these difficulties, they kept going, driven by a strong desire to bring justice to those who suffered quietly.
Filmmaker Kevin Flounlacker joined their journey, inspired by the Torres’ story. His documentary, “Thank You For Your Service: A Burn Pits Story,” aimed to break through the general lack of interest in the struggles of returning veterans. Flounlacker wanted to show the contrast between the strong support expressed during wartime and the neglect that veterans often face when they come back home. The documentary became a way to shed light on the challenges veterans like the Torres couple encounter and the importance of addressing these issues.
Building Alliances and Political Advocacy
The big moment came in 2022 when Congress, pushed by the determined efforts of the Torres couple and their supporters, decided to give more attention to the issue of burn pits. Famous people like Jon Stewart joined the cause, using their influence to shine a national spotlight on the challenges faced by the PACT Act.
The PACT Act is a big deal because it officially recognizes that illnesses from exposure to burn pits are related to military service. This recognition is like a huge change that impacts the health benefits given to veterans. The Torres couple’s strong advocacy, supported by regular people and influential figures, led to a significant increase in the rights granted to those who sacrificed for our country.
Herrman & Herrman played a crucial role by continuously supporting the Torres couple. Their ongoing help was like a key part of the Torres’ journey, giving them the strength to gather resources and keep pushing forward in their efforts to make a difference. The support from Herrman & Herrman became a central point, helping the Torres couple sustain the energy needed for their advocacy work.
Presidential Recognition and Legislative Impact
The peak of the Torres’ journey happened in August 2022 when President Joe Biden officially turned the PACT Act into law. The ceremony at the White House wasn’t just a symbolic win; it was a real-life proof of how people’s grassroots efforts can make a big impact. The Torres couple, right there at this historic event, saw the result of all their hard work coming together.
The PACT Act, which stands for Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, became a detailed response in the law to the problem of burn pit exposure. Its effects weren’t limited to just Washington – it reached out into the lives of veterans all across the country.
Herrman & Herrman, being one of the first supporters, got to see the positive outcomes of their help when the law passed. This legislative victory didn’t just change rules; it reshaped the whole scene for veterans dealing with injuries. The firm’s dedication to the cause made it a strong supporter in the Torres’ fight for justice, establishing its role as a dependable ally in their journey. The impact of the PACT Act went far beyond legal papers; it created a new landscape for veterans, marking a significant win for their rights and well-being.
Acknowledgment and Impact
The influence of the Torres’ efforts goes beyond measure. State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro praised the couple’s unwavering dedication. Castro even put them forward for the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. According to Castro, their actions have “changed the course of history” for veterans facing difficulties, emphasizing Le Roy Torres’ extraordinary determination in the face of his illnesses.
Since the PACT Act became law, the impact has been substantial. Information from the White House website reveals that almost 845,000 veterans or their survivors have sought benefits through the VA. Over 330,000 of these claims have been approved, resulting in the VA paying out $1.85 billion. In Texas alone, nearly 95,000 claims were filed, with 38,400 approvals.
Additionally, over 4.1 million veterans have received free screenings for toxic exposures through the VA under the PACT Act. Le Roy and Rosie Torres credit President Biden for rallying public support, which pushed Congress to take action. This measure formally recognizes illnesses from burn pit exposure as service-related, honoring an Ohio soldier who succumbed to cancer in 2020 after being exposed to burn pits.
As plans took shape for the signing ceremony, Le Roy and Rosie Torres received a surprise invitation to the White House. Although not part of the audience, they stood among dignitaries and Robinson families beside the president’s desk as the legislation was officially enacted.
President Biden made it clear that the new law held personal significance for him. His son, Beau, was exposed to burn pits during his deployment to Iraq as a National Guard officer. The president believes his son’s death from brain cancer at 46 in 2015 was likely caused by the toxic smoke and fumes.
Rosie Torres shared that witnessing Biden’s emotions as a father overshadowed any sense of awe she might have felt about meeting the president.
“For me, it was really more like shaking the hand of a father who also had lost his son, not so much our president,” she said. “Here’s a dad who buried his son to these toxic wounds of war. Knowing what we went through, well (his) family went through it too.”
The impact of the Torres’ advocacy goes beyond legislative victories. Their outreach and support led to the establishment of a burn pit registry for Texas veterans, showcasing their commitment to ensuring that returning service members receive the care and recognition they deserve. This registry stands as a testament to the Torres couple’s ongoing dedication to the well-being of those who have served their nation.
Le Roy & Rosie Torres, We Salute You
In the intricate tapestry of life, some stories stand out as beacons of resilience, determination, and transformative change. The journey of Le Roy and Rosie Torres is one such tale, weaving together themes of sacrifice, advocacy, and triumph against all odds. Their extraordinary efforts, fueled by a commitment to justice and a passion for helping fellow veterans, have not only reshaped the narrative for those impacted by burn pit exposure but have also left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of our nation.
Le Roy Torres, a dedicated law enforcement officer and part-time soldier, found himself on the front lines in Iraq in 2007. Little did he know that his commitment to duty would lead him into the heart of an invisible adversary – toxic burn pits. The aftermath of his service, the ‘Iraqi crud,’ became a precursor to a life-threatening and non-reversible lung disease, constrictive bronchiolitis. Denied benefits by the Department of Veteran Affairs, Le Roy and Rosie embarked on a remarkable journey of self-advocacy.
Their advocacy journey took an extraordinary turn in 2022 when Congress, prodded by the relentless efforts of the Torres couple and their allies, finally prioritized addressing burn pits. The signing of the PACT Act into law by President Joe Biden in August 2022 marked a pivotal moment, not just symbolically but tangibly showcasing the transformative power of grassroots advocacy. The Torres couple, present at the historic White House ceremony, witnessed the culmination of their tireless efforts.
The PACT Act, officially named the Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, emerged as a comprehensive legislative response to burn pit exposure. Its impact extended far beyond the corridors of Washington, reaching into the lives of veterans across the nation. Herrman & Herrman, as one of the original donors, saw the fruits of its support manifest in a legislative triumph that redefined the landscape for injured veterans. The firm’s commitment solidified its role as a stalwart ally in the Torres’ fight for justice.
The ripple effect of the Torres’ advocacy has been monumental. State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro recognized and lauded the couple’s unyielding commitment. Castro went further, nominating them for the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, emphasizing that their efforts “changed the course of history” for suffering veterans. This nomination speaks volumes about the extraordinary resolve of Le Roy Torres in the face of his illnesses.
The impact of the PACT Act is quantifiable and substantial. According to information on the White House website, since the passage of the PACT Act, nearly 845,000 veterans or their survivors have filed claims for benefits through the VA. Over 330,000 of these claims have been approved, with the VA paying out $1.85 billion. Texas veterans account for nearly 95,000 of the total claims filed and 38,400 of the approvals. Additionally, more than 4.1 million veterans have received free screenings for toxic exposures from the VA under the PACT Act.
Le Roy and Rosie Torres credit President Biden for rallying public support for the PACT Act, which ultimately spurred Congress to take action. The measure, formally recognizing illnesses from burn pit exposure as service-related, honors the memory of an Ohio soldier who was exposed to burn pits and tragically died from cancer in 2020. The Torres couple’s personal connection to the issue and their relentless advocacy played a crucial role in bringing about this legislative change.
The significance of their journey reached a poignant climax during the signing ceremony, where Le Roy and Rosie Torres were invited to the White House. Standing among dignitaries and Robinson families, their presence acknowledged not only their personal triumphs but also the broader impact of their advocacy on a national level.
President Biden’s personal connection to the issue, with his son Beau’s exposure to burn pits during deployment leading to fatal consequences, added a deeply human layer to the legislative victory. Rosie Torres, acknowledging the emotional resonance of meeting the president, saw beyond the formalities. She saw a father who had also buried his son due to the toxic wounds of war, connecting their experiences in a profound way.
The impact of the Torres couple’s advocacy goes beyond legislative victories. Their commitment and outreach extended to the creation of a burn pit registry for Texas veterans, ensuring that returning service members receive the care and recognition they deserve. This registry stands as a testament to their ongoing dedication to the well-being of those who have served their nation.
In honoring Le Roy and Rosie Torres as the Corpus Christi Caller-Times Newsmakers of the Year for 2023, we salute not only their personal triumphs but also the indomitable spirit of advocacy that has reshaped the narrative for injured veterans. Their journey, supported by Herrman & Herrman, reflects the transformative power of grassroots efforts, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring commitment to justice and compassion. The Torres couple’s story will remain etched in the annals of history as a testament to the difference that a determined couple, supported by a caring community and compassionate allies, can make in the lives of countless others.
Additional Information About Burn Pits 360
Burn Pits 360 is the only 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization offering an independent burn pit exposure registry. This registry allows family members of armed forces to record the names of those that have passed away due to illness from toxic exposure. Le Roy and Rosie Torres founded Burn Pits 360 roughly 13 years ago and they have been actively working to connect exposed veterans with healthcare services and equipment that was not provided by the Veterans Affairs (VA). “We went overseas defending our nation, but yet we came back and we’re still having to come and fight for healthcare,” Torres said. Herrman & Herrman is a proud sponsor of Burn Pits 360 and celebrates this monumental bill that was passed by the Senate yesterday, August 3rd, 2022 with an 86-11 vote.
Click photo above to watch the KRIS TV broadcast about Burn Pits 360
The PACT ACT is a $280 billion dollar package that will provide expanded health care benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits in Iraq & Afghanistan. This bill also allows widows who lost their spouses to toxic illness from the burn pits to receive benefits and will build 30 new VA medical clinics across the country
Also Included in the Bill: Camp Lejeune Justice Act
According to WECT.com this bill “allow[s] soldiers stationed at the base for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987 to sue the government for damages after exposure to toxic substances in the water, also known as VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Almost one million people lived and worked at the base between 1953 and 1987, and a study found that people staying in Camp Lejeune had significantly higher mortality rates for several forms of cancer, Hodgkin’s lymphona, leukemia and other conditions.” Anyone who lived in and around the base for at least 30 days is likely to develop an illness from ingesting and bathing in the contaminated water. There are many known injuries and they are varied. Among them are: Breast cancer Bladder cancer Esophageal cancer Hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease) Kidney cancer Lung cancer Multiple myeloma Myelodysplastic syndromes Neurobehavioral effects Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Leukemia Parkinson’s Disease Miscarriage Female infertility Renal Toxicity Scleroderma Birth defects And many more serious illnesses. U.S. Congressman Gregory F. Murphy states, “Our bipartisan bill, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act eliminates burdensome red tape to ensure that those exposed to toxic chemicals, including servicemembers, Marine dependents, civil servants, and contractors, can receive their day in court.”
Get more information about Camp Lejeune Toxic Water Lawsuit Here.
About Herrman & Herrman Personal Injury Lawyers
Herrman & Herrman takes pride in helping those in our community and across the nation. Sponsoring organizations like Burn Pits 360 allows us to contribute in the fight for justice for those warriors that were injured as well as their families. 
With over 100 years of combined experience among the legal team of Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., our Texas personal injury attorneys have successfully resolved over 20,000 cases. When representing injured Texas residents, we fight for justice against wrongdoing and aggressively pursue the best resolution to complex personal injury claims. If you or a loved one was injured, please contact us for a free initial consultation and case evaluation. Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., is a locally based law firm focused on holding negligent individuals and companies accountable for their wrongdoing. We are not a personal injury mill that advertises nationwide. We provide individualized advocacy in attending to all aspects of claims that involve. Our firm has offices in the following locations: Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi South Side, Brownsville, McAllen, San Antonio, Houston, and Ft. Worth, TX. We remain by our clients’ side, handling all aspects of their claims and attending to all legal, medical and financial needs. That dedication is combined with experience, legal knowledge, and insight from a former insurance adjuster and several former insurance defense attorneys. Whether our clients are suffering from physical pain from an accident or the emotional grief of death, we treat clients with compassion. We put their mind at ease during difficult times by answering their questions concerning the length of their claim, medical bills, financial compensation and their overall need for a lawyer.
