US Marine Corp

U.S. Marine Corps Asbestos Exposure

Marine Corps veterans face an increased risk of developing asbestos-related diseases due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in military equipment, ships, vehicles, and buildings. During their military service, Marines often worked in environments heavily laden with asbestos, a toxic mineral that can cause serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases.

Marine personnel, particularly those stationed on older ships or bases, were often exposed to asbestos during maintenance, repairs, and everyday operations. Common sources of asbestos exposure included ship parts like boilers, insulation, brake pads, bulkhead panels, pipe coverings, and gaskets. In addition to ships and armored vehicles, asbestos was also present in Marine Corps barracks, aircraft, and base housing, which were constructed using asbestos-containing products such as drywall, flooring, roofing, and insulation.

Risk of Asbestos Exposure in the Marine Corps

Asbestos exposure was a significant concern for Marine Corps members, especially those who served before asbestos regulations were implemented in the 1980s. Marines working in high-risk roles, including mechanics, construction workers, boiler technicians, and aircraft personnel, were frequently exposed to asbestos fibers during their day-to-day tasks. Amphibious assault ships, steam pipes, brake linings, and aircraft parts were some of the major sources of asbestos exposure. Asbestos was widely used in boiler rooms, engine rooms, pipe insulation, and armored vehicles.

High-Risk Locations for Asbestos Exposure in the Marine Corps

Marine Corps veterans may have been exposed to asbestos while stationed at various bases and air stations, including:

• Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune (North Carolina)
• Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton (California)
• Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni (Japan)
• Marine Corps Base Quantico (Virginia)
• Marine Corps Base Hawaii
• Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island (South Carolina)
• Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point (North Carolina)
• Marine Corps Base Twentynine Palms (California)

Additionally, U.S. Navy ships carrying Marines were often insulated with asbestos, exposing Marines to airborne asbestos fibers during service.

Camp Lejeune Water Containination

Camp Lejeune, a U.S. Marine Corps base in North Carolina, was the site of extensive water contamination between the 1950s and the 1980s. For decades, service members, their families, and civilians were exposed to toxic chemicals in the base’s drinking water. These chemicals, including trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride, have been linked to severe health conditions such as cancers, birth defects, and neurological disorders. Exposure to these toxins has been associated with a range of illnesses, including lung cancer, kidney cancer, leukemia, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. In recent years, the U.S. government acknowledged the contamination and offered VA benefits and health care to affected veterans and their families, many of whom have filed lawsuits for compensation due to the life-threatening illnesses caused by the exposure.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, develop after the inhalation or ingestion of microscopic asbestos fibers. These fibers can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, leading to inflammation and the development of cancerous cells over time. Marine Corps members often experienced asbestos exposure without knowing the severe health risks, as symptoms of asbestos-related illnesses may take 10-50 years to develop after initial exposure.

Legal Claims and Compensation for Marine Corps Veterans

Marine veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases are eligible for disability compensation and other benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Veterans with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other asbestos-related diseases may qualify for a 100% disability rating, which offers full financial compensation for medical care and other expenses.

In addition to VA benefits, Marine Corps veterans may file legal claims against manufacturers of asbestos products used in military equipment, vehicles, and buildings. Mesothelioma lawsuits often result in substantial settlements, with compensation amounts varying based on the veteran’s individual exposure history and the severity of the disease. Asbestos trust funds are also available to compensate veterans harmed by companies that went bankrupt due to asbestos litigation.

Asbestos-Containing Products in the Marine Corps

The Marine Corps used asbestos-containing materials in a wide variety of products, including:

• Ship and vehicle insulation
• Brake pads and linings
• Engine gaskets
• Boiler insulation
• Pipe coverings
• Bulkhead panels

These asbestos-based products were used extensively in military ships, aircraft, and armored vehicles, increasing the risk of military asbestos exposure for Marines.

Medical Treatment for Veterans with Asbestos-Related Diseases

Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses can access specialized medical care through the VA healthcare system. The VA operates several mesothelioma treatment centers, offering treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Veterans with service-connected mesothelioma or lung cancer may also receive disability benefits, monthly compensation, and health care benefits to cover the costs of their treatment.

Secondary Asbestos Exposure in the Marine Corps

In addition to direct exposure, Marine Corps veterans may have unknowingly exposed their families to asbestos by bringing asbestos fibers home on their uniforms, skin, and equipment. Secondary asbestos exposure can also lead to the development of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases among family members of Marines.

Filing a Mesothelioma Claim for Marine Corps Veterans

Marine veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases can file a mesothelioma claim through the VA or pursue legal action against the companies responsible for their asbestos exposure. Experienced mesothelioma lawyers like Serling & Abramson, P.C. can help veterans navigate the legal process, file claims with asbestos trust funds, and pursue legal compensation for their injuries. Veterans and their families are encouraged to fill out our free case evaluation and explore their options for compensation and justice.