Asbestos Exposure: The Silent Danger for Navy Veterans

News Summary

This article reveals the hidden dangers of asbestos exposure among U.S. Navy veterans. Despite the Navy’s proud history, many service members face severe health risks from asbestos found in ships built from the late 1930s to the 1980s. Legal assistance and VA benefits are available for affected veterans, emphasizing the importance of early detection and health vigilance.

Asbestos Exposure: The Silent Danger for Navy Veterans

Throughout the years, the U.S. Navy has proudly served as the backbone of America’s maritime defense. However, the shocking truth remains buried within its storied history: virtually every ship built from the late 1930s through the 1980s was infused with asbestos. This once-cherished material was favored for its fireproof, lightweight, and corrosion-proof properties. As it turns out, the very ships that have safeguarded freedom have also harbored a deadly secret, with the U.S. Navy boasting the highest rate of mesothelioma—a deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure—among all military branches.

The Unquestionable Expansion of the Navy Fleet

The U.S. Navy’s expansion was nothing short of remarkable. From 394 vessels in 1939 to nearly 7,000 by 1945, this dramatic increase was not just about size; it was also a reflection of the extensive use of asbestos. As these ships were constructed, a dangerous cycle unfolded: while companies produced asbestos-containing products and reaped profits, they also concealed well-documented health risks associated with their materials. The ramifications of this corporate negligence are grim and far-reaching.

The Hidden Health Risks of Asbestos

Asbestos fibers released into the air when disturbed pose severe health risks, especially when inhaled or ingested. Sadly, the symptoms of asbestos-related illnesses can take 20 to 50 years to manifest. For many veterans now diagnosed with mesothelioma, the exposure occurred decades earlier, during their service. Asbestos was ubiquitous in Navy ships, particularly in insulation and fireproofing materials found in boiler rooms, engine compartments, and more.

Who’s at Risk? Understanding Job Roles within the Navy

Asbestos exposure was not limited to specific jobs but pervaded the Navy at all levels, affecting personnel engaged in various functions across the fleet. Certain Navy ratings—such as machinist’s mates, boiler techs, and pipefitters—faced an elevated risk, working closely with materials laced with dangerous asbestos. Even families of service members were unwittingly affected by secondhand exposure, as fine particles clung to clothing and could be carried home.

Legal Aid for Affected Veterans

As the grim realities of asbestos exposure gained recognition, legal avenues opened for affected veterans. A law firm, dedicated to veterans’ rights, has successfully assisted thousands in securing over $5.2 billion in compensation for mesothelioma since its founding in 1979. Victims of asbestos-related conditions can pursue legal claims against the manufacturers of these hazardous products. With an average settlement exceeding $1 million, and trial verdicts that can range from $5 million to a staggering $11.4 million, there is a strong motivation to seek justice.

Government Assistance through the VA

In addition to legal compensation, veterans exposed to asbestos may apply for valuable VA benefits. These benefits range from monthly compensation to essential healthcare, recognizing mesothelioma as a 100% disability under VA classification. Approximately 30% of mesothelioma patients in the U.S. are military veterans, with Navy veterans comprising a significant portion of this statistic. The passage of the PACT Act in 2022 further cemented the connection between asbestos exposure and military service, thus simplifying access to benefits for veterans affected.

Importance of Early Detection

Each year, nearly 1,000 veterans receive a mesothelioma diagnosis, underscoring the urgent need for early detection. Regular check-ups and specialized screenings are crucial for veterans who have a known history of asbestos exposure. As an estimated 3,300 U.S. Navy ships have been constructed using asbestos-containing products, the potential health threats continue to loom large. The primary tasks for this hazardous material included thermal insulation, durability in friction-prone areas, and fire prevention.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The legacy of asbestos within the Navy shines a sobering light on the sacrifices made by service members. It is imperative for veterans and their families to remain vigilant about their health, seek out necessary screenings, and explore the legal avenues available to them should they be affected by asbestos-related diseases. The fight for justice is not just about compensation; it is a vital step towards acknowledging and addressing this tragic chapter in military history.