Veterans and Mesothelioma
If you are a veteran you may have heard that of all current U.S. Mesothelioma patients, 30% have served in the military. That’s because the properties of asbestos made it ideal for military use in construction, munitions, shipbuilding, etc.
Each branch of the military exposed its soldiers to asbestos
Though the military’s appetite for asbestos waned in the mid 70’s, veterans nonetheless continued to be exposed to asbestos fibers at an alarming rate. The Lawyers at The DiCello Law Firm continue to see a disproportionate number of veterans diagnosed with Mesothelioma who understandably didn’t realize the danger of exposure during their service. Now, the full extent of their sacrifice is becoming known with their diagnosis of Mesothelioma.
Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and the National Guard
Each branch of the military exposed its soldiers to asbestos, all of whom are now danger of developing mesothelioma. For instance, the navy lauded the indestructible qualities of asbestos in building materials used in shipyards while servicemen at sea were practically encased in tons of asbestos for the prevention of fire. Similarly, Coast Guard veterans may have been trained at the “The Yard,” where they could have come in regular contact with asbestos.
Similarly National Guard veterans deployed to natural disasters like hurricanes or fires or terrorist attacks such as the Oklahoma City bombing or the September 11th attack in New York City are all at risk of exposure. Exposure can occur not only in the path of destruction but also at landfills and disposal sites.
It’s also worth mentioning that from WWII through the Vietnam War the United States used asbestos in barracks because of the need to have fireproof housing. Unfortunately in this environment soldiers may have been exposed to high levels of asbestos daily. Also, those who repaired aircraft in the Air Force used valves and gaskets that we now know had asbestos as a material element. This put the mechanics at risk for excessive exposure as well.
"Second hand" Mesothelioma
Finally, for those veterans who were exposed to asbestos, their family members have also been made victims. That is, the very fibers that were inhaled by military fathers and mothers came home with them on their bodies and clothing. Those fibers where then inhaled and ingested by their spouses and children. Years later (20 to 50 years) the diagnosis of Mesothelioma affects a whole new generation of military children and spouses.
The lawyers at the DiCello Law Firm understand the complex nature of Mesothlioma cases and dealing with veteran affairs. They understand they will never be able to give you back what you or your family has lost, however they can make it easier for you. If you or a loved one is a veteran and has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos, give the DiCello Law Firm a call today.