Out of the millions of brave military veterans who have given service to their country, hundreds of thousands were exposed to asbestos. Used throughout the 20th century in many industries, asbestos gained immense popularity because of its innate flame resistant, durable and versatile qualities. It made it an ideal choice for many military applications. The value of asbestos was so high that did not get phased out until the 1970’s.

Sacramento is no stranger to military bases, with the Navy, Army and Air Force all having bases in the city to some degree.
Asbestos use greatly impacted the Navy. Prior to World War II, many shipyards in the country constructed their vessels in hopes of creating the largest naval fleet in the world. While they succeeded in their goals, asbestos use was large and rapid. Shipyard workers, sailors and tradesman aboard these ships were wrongfully exposed aboard navigation rooms, sleeping quarters and mess halls. These shipyards were vital in efforts to build and repair ships on the west and east coasts of the country. The military also used asbestos as insulation aircraft, vehicles and buildings.

Although asbestos exposure does not always lead to an illness, frequent and long term exposure will greatly raise those risks. Many veterans have been plagued by peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare but severe lung ailment contracted only through asbestos exposure. Factors that affect mesothelioma life expectancy include age of diagnosis, latency period and cigarette smoking. Many veterans do not develop their disease until they have reached middle age because asbestos-related illnesses typically have a latency period lasting 20 to 50 years. This has lead to mesothelioma lawyer firms protecting and advocating the rights of victims.

Asbestos manufactures have been heavily criticized for concealing and not acting enough to inform the public of the dangers associated with asbestos exposure. The asbestos scandal has been one of the more formidable cover-ups that took place in the 20th century.

Asbestos exposure still remains a threat to soldiers who are stationed in countries throughout the world. In Iraq, over $194,000 worth of asbestos was imported into the country in 2003. Soldiers not only face daily threats while performing standard military operations, but also are at risk for potential exposure because fierce desert sands and winds can carry asbestos dust for miles.

At the present time, mesothelioma or asbestos-related diseases are not recognized as a service or job-related ailment. Veterans can still apply for Veteran Affairs (VA) benefits for their wrongful illness, but must provide proof demonstrating that it happened at the time of their military service.

With the new presidential administration one month into their first term, many are hopeful for an adamant change in policies towards asbestos use and veteran compensation. With the recent Presidential address to congress, President Obama signaled a change in Veteran Affairs compensation.

It appears that until there is a vehement change in policies enforced on a federal level against the use of asbestos, it will continue to inflict damage and harm to yet another generation of innocent by standards.