Thousands of veterans with mesothelioma have hired lawyers and received compensation.
Unfortunately, testing performed as early as 1939 informed the United States about how highly toxic the nature of asbestos on Navy ships truly was. An escalation of warfare in Europe was apparent and an inevitable war prevailed. War ships were desperately needed and those leading the charge elected to move forward with a substance that was made of carcinogenic contaminants almost everywhere throughout the ships. By the time the decision was made by the Navy to terminate the use of asbestos it was already throughout its ships.
During the Second World War, ships were manufactured quickly, skillfully and on scarce finances. Asbestos happened to be a material that aided in the accomplishment of all of these objectives. Because manufacturing involved using an abundance of heat-producing equipment, the possibility for fires, particularly during combat was high. Asbestos on navy ships was mounted in these areas including engine and boiler rooms, draped over pipes, covered gaskets and brakes and even in the ceilings, walls and floors of rooms where the servicemen congregated repeatedly. The sleeping quarters and galleys were also packed with asbestos. Any person serving on these ships was more likely to have asbestos exposure than not.
Asbestos on Navy ships was not only an excellent insulate, it was heat and fire resistant. Navy ships were prone to fires because of overheating from machinery or enemy fire. Fires on board a vessel carrying men necessary to fight a war would have been a nightmare scenario. It was the best option to use at the time. When ships were refurbished to remove the asbestos, civilian workers were also exposed to the deadly substance. Asbestos was used in all branches of the Military, but the Navy far exceeded usage by other branches all while exposing its cargo of sailors for decades to come.
At an all-time high, mesothelioma cancer in Navy veterans has taken a toll even though the use of the substance came to an end forty years ago. Mesothelioma symptoms mimic those of a common cold or flu, so veterans do not typically know they have been infected for 20-50 years after exposure. Symptoms can include coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and fatigue. Sadly, veterans serving between the 1930’s and 1970’s have a chance they were exposed to asbestos and are at risk for mesothelioma.
About half of all veterans in all Military branches that were exposed to asbestos served in the Navy. Because of asbestos on Navy ships, hundreds of Navy personnel have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and are receiving money settlements. Because their asbestos exposure was illegal during their time of duty, an asbestos lawyer can seek financial damages on their behalf. A mesothelioma attorney can provide advice regarding compensation if you were exposed during your time of service. Allow an attorney to assess your rights to file a claim in a court of law.