In 1951, the Army, working with the Atomic Energy Commission, carried out the Desert Rock Exercises, an experiment to “dispel much of the fear and uncertainty surrounding atomic radiation and the effects of gamma and x-rays.”

A tent encampment was set up about 27 miles from where the atomic explosions were detonated on the Nevada Proving Grounds. The encampment housed about 5,000 Army soldiers, civilian observers and technicians. Troops spent hours in classes receiving training in radiation and nuclear weapons effects.

The following is a recorded interview between a sergeant and a training officer prior to a blast:

Question. “How many of your men would volunteer to go up and be in the
foxholes?” (one-half mile from ground zero)

Answer. “I guess about half a dozen.”

Question. “It’s quite a loud noise when that bomb goes off … would it do
them any harm?”

Answer. “No sir, not the noise, no.”

Question. “How about the radiation? Do you think there is much danger?”

Answer. “Radiation is the least of their worries that the men are thinking
about.”

Question. “I think most thought radiation was the greatest danger, didn’t
they? Where did they learn differently?”

Answer. “They were, prior to our instructions here. We received a very
thorough briefing.”