National Guard Asbestos Exposure

Understanding the Risk of Asbestos Exposure

Military service often involves unique risks, and for National Guard members, asbestos exposure is one of the most significant and overlooked dangers. 

Asbestos-containing materials were widely used in military equipment, vehicles, and buildings throughout the 20th century. 

Despite the known health risks, asbestos remained in use due to its heat resistance and tensile strength, exposing countless military personnel, including National Guard members, to harmful asbestos fibers.

Sources Of National Guard Asbestos Exposure

National Guard members faced asbestos exposure in a variety of settings during active duty and training exercises. Common sources included:

• Asbestos in Military Vehicles: Many armored vehicles, trucks, and other military equipment contained asbestos-based components like brake linings, clutch plates, and insulation.
• Building Materials: Armories, training facilities, and barracks often utilized asbestos-containing products such as floor tiles, pipe insulation, and roof shingles. These materials could release asbestos dust into the air during maintenance or renovations.
• Protective Equipment and Gear: Asbestos blankets and protective clothing were used to shield personnel from heat and fire, unknowingly putting them at risk for asbestos exposure.
• Aircraft and Naval Equipment: National Guard members stationed at Air Force Bases or assigned to naval support roles encountered asbestos in aircraft engines, steam pipes, boiler rooms, and ship components.

Asbestos-Related Health Risks for National Guard Members

The microscopic fibers released while handling, repairing, or demolishing of asbestos-containing products pose serious health risks. 

Inhalation or ingestion of these fibers can lead to life-threatening illnesses, including:

• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), or heart (pericardium). This disease often develops decades after initial asbestos exposure.
• Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition caused by scarring from asbestos fibers, leading to shortness of breath and reduced lung function.
• Lung Cancer and Other Respiratory Diseases: National Guard members exposed to airborne asbestos fibers face an increased risk of developing lung cancer and other pulmonary diseases.
• Pleural Thickening and Effusion: Long-term asbestos exposure can result in fluid buildup and scarring around the lungs, causing significant discomfort and breathing difficulties.

Locations of National Guard Asbestos Exposure

Several National Guard facilities across the United States have been identified as asbestos exposure sites. Notable locations include:

• Fort Bragg (North Carolina): Known for its use of asbestos-containing materials in barracks and training facilities.
• Fort Knox (Kentucky): A hub for armored vehicle maintenance where asbestos brake pads and insulation were commonly handled.
• Fort Hood (Texas): Reports indicate widespread asbestos use in older military structures and equipment.

National Guard personnel stationed at air bases like Kadena Air Base or involved in amphibious assault ship operations also encountered high levels of asbestos exposure during service.

Legal and Financial Support for Veterans with Mesothelioma

National Guard members diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses have legal rights and may be eligible for compensation through various channels:

VA Disability Benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers disability benefits to veterans exposed to asbestos during their service. A successful claim requires:

• Service Records: Documenting the location and timing of asbestos exposure during active duty or training.
• Medical Records: Confirming a diagnosis of mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease.
• Disability Rating: The VA assigns a percentage based on the severity of the condition, which determines monthly compensation amounts.

Asbestos Trust Funds

Manufacturers of asbestos-containing products have established trust funds to compensate victims. National Guard members exposed to asbestos during service can file claims to recover costs related to medical care, lost wages, and other expenses.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Filing a legal claim against negligent manufacturers or contractors responsible for asbestos exposure is another option. Experienced mesothelioma law firms can help veterans navigate the legal process, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

Seeking Justice and Medical Support

National Guard members diagnosed with mesothelioma or asbestos-related diseases should prioritize both medical care and legal advocacy. Working with specialists and legal professionals ensures access to:

• State-of-the-Art Treatments: From immunotherapy and chemotherapy to experimental options available through clinical trials.
• Financial Compensation: Covering the costs of treatment, travel, and other associated expenses.
• Emotional Support: Navigating the challenges of asbestos-related illnesses can be overwhelming, and support from family, counselors, and veteran advocacy groups is essential.

Contact Us Today

We are committed to assisting National Guard veterans affected by asbestos exposure. Our experienced legal team specializes in asbestos-related cases, helping veterans secure disability benefits, file trust fund claims, and pursue justice against negligent parties.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, contact us today for a free consultation. 

Let us help you navigate your legal options, connect with trusted medical professionals, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your service and sacrifice.

Asbestos Within the National Guard

 

Nation Guard AC Systems Installers	National Guard Insulation Installers
National Guard Air Conditioning Mechanics	National Guard Jeep Mechanics
National Guard Aircraft Maintenance Units	National Guard Jet Mechanics
National Guard Aircraft Mechanics	National Guard Jet-Engine Mechanic
National Guard Aircraft Repair Units	National Guard Longshoreman
National Guard Airplane Mechanics	National Guard Machinery Repairmen
National Guard Armory Workers	National Guard Machinist Mates
National Guard Auto Mechanics	National Guard Machinists
National Guard Auto Service Techs	National Guard Maintenance Crews
National Guard Base Firefighters	National Guard Maintenance Man
National Guard Base Workers	National Guard Mechanics
National Guard Boiler Plant Operators	National Guard Metalsmiths
National Guard Boiler Room Workers	National Guard Missile Technicians
National Guard Boiler Technicians	National Guard Molders
National Guard Boiler Tenders	National Guard Officers
National Guard Boiler Workers	National Guard Oil Field Workers
National Guard Boilermakers	National Guard Oilers
National Guard Brake Mechanics	National Guard Personnel Workers
National Guard Civilian Contractors	National Guard Pilots
National Guard Civilian Ship Inspectors	National Guard Pipe Coverers
National Guard Communications Electricians	National Guard Pipe Installers
National Guard Construction Drivers	National Guard Pipefitters
National Guard Construction Workers	National Guard Plane Mechanics
National Guard Corps of Engineers	National Guard Plumbers
National Guard Crew Chiefs	National Guard Power Plant Workers
National Guard Demolition Crews	National Guard Radioman
National Guard Demolition Workers	National Guard Railroad Workers
National Guard Division Commanders	National Guard Refrigeration Mechanics
National Guard Drywall Installers	National Guard Renovation Workers
National Guard Drywallers	National Guard Riggers
National Guard Electricians	National Guard Seaman
National Guard Electrician’s Apprentice	National Guard Sheet Metal Workers
National Guard Electronics Technicians	National Guard Sheetrock Tapers
National Guard Engine Mechanics	National Guard Ship Builders
National Guard Engine Room Workers	National Guard Ship Captains
National Guard Engine Technicians	National Guard Shipfitters
National Guard Engineering Officers	National Guard Soldier Mechanics
National Guard Engineers	National Guard Stationary Engineers
National Guard Engine Rooms Workers	National Guard Steamfitters
National Guard Equipment Mechanics	National Guard Steel Workers
National Guard Equipment Technicians	National Guard Tank Operators
National Guard Fire Controlman	National Guard Tankerman
National Guard Fire Room Workers	National Guard Telephone Installers
National Guard Firefighters	National Guard Telephone Repairman
National Guard Fireman	National Guard Train Workers
National Guard Gas Turbine System Workers	National Guard Truck Mechanics
National Guard Gunners	National Guard Turbine Workers
National Guard Heating AC System Installers	National Guard Utilities Man
National Guard Heating System Installers	National Guard Vehicle Mechanics
National Guard Heating Workers	National Guard Vehicle Service Technicians
National Guard Housing Workers	National Guard Water Tenders
National Guard Hull Maintenance Worker	National Guard Welders
National Guard Installation Installers	National Guard Wipers
National Guard Instrumentman