Overview
This page documents the September 18, 2019 congressional hearing before the House Homeland Security Committee on Havana Syndrome and related neurological incidents affecting U.S. government personnel.
The hearing was held in response to the December 2016 outbreak in Cuba that affected over 40 U.S. diplomats and intelligence officers.
Key Testimony Highlights
Dr. Len Ber - Physician/Researcher
Dr. Ber provided medical testimony regarding neurological manifestations observed among victims, including:- Directional audible phenomena (audible sounds perceived as coming from specific directions)
- Sensory disturbances affecting visual and auditory processing
- Cognitive effects including memory lapses and concentration difficulties
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and tinnitus
Dr. Beatrice Golomb - UC San Diego Professor of Medicine
Dr. Golomb's testimony included:- Analysis of medical imaging findings showing neurological abnormalities in affected individuals
- Discussion of potential mechanisms including pulsed radiofrequency energy exposure
- Review of treatment approaches for neuroinflammatory conditions
- Emphasis on the need for continued research and support for affected personnel
Dr. Stephen Feinberg - Deputy Secretary of Defense
Dr. Feinberg's testimony addressed:- DOD response to Havana Syndrome cases
- Coordination with intelligence agencies and medical providers
- Ongoing investigation into potential causes
- Support measures for affected service members and civilians
Hearing Context
The September 2019 hearing occurred during a critical period of congressional scrutiny following the National Academies' 2020 assessment that identified directed pulsed RF energy as the most plausible mechanism explaining Havana Syndrome cases.
This testimony contributed to the broader body of evidence documenting neurological harm from neurostrikes and informed subsequent policy developments including:
- The HAVANA Act (NDAA 2021)
- Congressional oversight of neurotechnology programs
- Medical research initiatives for Gulf War Illness and related conditions
Related Topics
- havana-syndrome-assessment-2024 — National Academies assessment concluding directed pulsed RF energy is most plausible mechanism
- gaov-havana-syndrome-report-2024 — GAO report on military healthcare failures for Havana Syndrome patients
- gulf-war-illness-healthcare-perspectives — Healthcare perspectives revealing knowledge gaps and systemic challenges