Army Corps of Engineers Ranks, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Asbestos exposure has led to severe health consequences for many First Sergeants, including the development of mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. This disease often manifests decades after the initial exposure, making it challenging for affected individuals to connect their symptoms to their past service. In recent years, numerous mesothelioma lawsuits have been filed by veterans and their families seeking compensation for the devastating impact of asbestos-related diseases. These legal actions have highlighted the significant health risks faced by First Sergeants in the Army Corps of Engineers, providing a means for some measure of justice and financial relief. The lawsuits underscore the long-term consequences of asbestos exposure and the ongoing struggle for affected veterans to receive the recognition and support they deserve.
History of Army Corps of Engineers and Asbestos Exposure
The history of asbestos exposure in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is marked by the widespread use of asbestos-containing products and materials in building, construction, and military facilities. Asbestos, known for its heat resistance, found extensive application throughout the U.S. Military, including in ships, aircraft, barracks, mess halls, and various structures. Despite the growing awareness of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, it wasn’t until the late 1970s that U.S. regulations on asbestos exposure were established.
Army Corps of Engineers Veterans diagnosed with Mesothelioma have expressed concerns about the lack of warnings, training, or respiratory protective gear provided when handling asbestos-containing products. Even though the Navy Surgeon General recognized the link between asbestos exposure and asbestosis as early as 1939, the use of asbestos continued for several more decades, impacting countless Veterans.
The prolonged latency period of asbestos-related diseases, such as Mesothelioma cancer, has led to many Veterans falling ill due to asbestos exposure, despite their lack of fault. U.S. Courts are now holding asbestos companies and manufacturers accountable for exposing Veterans to toxic asbestos dust and fibers, awarding mesothelioma victims significant settlements to address their pain and suffering.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE! – Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline Number is 888.640.0914
Army Corps of Engineers Ranks and Asbestos Exposure:
Enlisted Ranks
- Private (E-1): Exposed to asbestos during initial training in older facilities and while handling materials in basic construction tasks. They were often in close contact with insulation and building materials containing asbestos.
- Private Second Class (E-2): Continued exposure occurred during advanced training and early assignments. They were involved in maintenance work in older buildings where asbestos was present in insulation and floor tiles.
- Private First Class (E-3): Worked on more complex projects, including the demolition of old structures and renovation of military facilities, where asbestos was prevalent in construction materials.
- Specialist (E-4): Engaged in specialized tasks such as electrical and plumbing work. They frequently encountered asbestos in insulation around pipes and wiring.
- Corporal (E-4): Supervised small teams in maintenance and construction projects. Their leadership role put them at risk while overseeing tasks involving asbestos-laden materials.
- Sergeant (E-5): Took on greater responsibilities in managing work sites. They ensured safety protocols but still faced asbestos exposure, especially during the repair of older infrastructure.
- Staff Sergeant (E-6): Managed larger crews and more extensive projects. Their exposure increased with the complexity of their duties, often involving direct contact with asbestos insulation.
- Sergeant First Class (E-7): Oversaw multiple teams and projects, including the renovation of aging military facilities where asbestos was embedded in walls, floors, and ceilings.
- Master Sergeant (E-8): Acted as senior supervisors on major construction projects. They were responsible for the health and safety of their teams but still encountered asbestos during inspections and hands-on tasks.
- First Sergeant (E-8): Played a critical role in maintaining barracks and other living quarters. They dealt with asbestos during the upkeep and renovation of these older buildings.
- Sergeant Major (E-9): Senior enlisted leaders involved in high-level project oversight. Their duties often included inspecting and managing work involving asbestos-laden materials.
- Command Sergeant Major (E-9): Provided top-level guidance and supervision, ensuring safety protocols. Despite these roles, they were still present in environments where asbestos was disturbed.
- Sergeant Major of the Army (E-9S): As the highest enlisted advisor, they had significant oversight duties. Their experience included exposure during earlier career stages and while visiting various work sites.
Warrant Officer Ranks
- Warrant Officer 1 (WO1): Specialized in technical and tactical operations. They encountered asbestos while working with equipment and machinery that used asbestos components for heat resistance.
- Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2): Took on more responsibility in maintaining and repairing complex systems. Their exposure to asbestos came from older machinery and vehicles.
- Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3): Managed technical operations involving the upkeep of infrastructure. Asbestos was a constant risk in their maintenance and repair duties.
- Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4): Led advanced technical teams. They faced asbestos exposure while ensuring older equipment met operational standards.
- Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5): Senior technical experts who managed large-scale projects. Their extensive experience included significant exposure to asbestos in various capacities.
Commissioned Officer Ranks
- Second Lieutenant (O-1): Newly commissioned officers led small units. Their exposure came during initial assignments involving maintenance of older facilities.
- First Lieutenant (O-2): Took on more responsibility in project management. They were exposed to asbestos while overseeing the renovation and repair of aging infrastructure.
- Captain (O-3): Managed larger teams and more complex projects. Their exposure included direct contact with asbestos during inspections and planning.
- Major (O-4): Senior officers involved in strategic planning. They encountered asbestos while coordinating large-scale maintenance and construction efforts.
- Lieutenant Colonel (O-5): Led battalion-sized units and significant projects. Their duties included oversight of facilities known to contain asbestos materials.
- Colonel (O-6): Senior leaders in charge of major commands. Their extensive careers included frequent exposure to asbestos through various assignments.
- Brigadier General (O-7): Provided high-level oversight of engineering projects. Despite their rank, they had exposure during earlier career stages and while supervising large-scale operations.
- Major General (O-8): Managed entire divisions. Their strategic roles included overseeing projects involving asbestos-laden materials.
- Lieutenant General (O-9): Held top-tier leadership positions. They had a long history of exposure due to the nature of their assignments over the years.
- General (O-10): The highest-ranking officers with extensive oversight responsibilities. Their careers spanned decades, including significant exposure to asbestos in various capacities.
- General of the Army (Special Rank): Held during wartime, these top leaders had extensive experience, including earlier exposure to asbestos in various military operations and infrastructure projects.
FAQs About Asbestos Mesothelioma and Army Corps of Engineers Asbestos Exposure
What is mesothelioma, and how is it related to asbestos exposure?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is directly linked to asbestos exposure, occurring when individuals inhale or ingest microscopic asbestos fibers during their work with the Army Corps of Engineers.
How were Army Corps of Engineers personnel exposed to asbestos?
Army Corps of Engineers personnel were exposed to asbestos through the historical use of asbestos-containing materials in construction sites, equipment, and buildings. Engineers, construction personnel, and maintenance crews faced significant risks.
Can Army Corps of Engineers veterans file mesothelioma lawsuits?
Yes, veterans of the Army Corps of Engineers who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure during their service have the right to file mesothelioma lawsuits to seek compensation and justice.
What are asbestos trust fund claims, and how can they assist Army Corps of Engineers veterans with mesothelioma?
Asbestos trust fund claims are a legal avenue for those harmed by asbestos exposure to seek financial compensation. Army Corps of Engineers veterans with mesothelioma can file these claims to cover medical expenses and hold responsible parties accountable.
How can I gather the necessary evidence to support my asbestos trust fund claim?
To support your asbestos trust fund claim, collect your medical records, work history, and other relevant documents establishing your asbestos exposure during your service with the Army Corps of Engineers.
What steps should I take if I’m an Army Corps of Engineers veteran diagnosed with mesothelioma?
If you’re a veteran diagnosed with mesothelioma, begin by seeking immediate medical care. Then, consult experienced mesothelioma lawyers specializing in Army Corps of Engineers cases. They can guide you through the process of filing an asbestos trust fund claim, helping you secure rightful compensation.
Is there a time limit for filing mesothelioma lawsuits or asbestos trust fund claims?
Yes, there is a statute of limitations for filing mesothelioma lawsuits and asbestos trust fund claims. It’s crucial to consult with legal professionals promptly to ensure you meet the deadlines and protect your rights.
These FAQs provide essential information for Army Corps of Engineers veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma and seeking justice through asbestos trust fund claims.
Quick Facts about U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Asbestos Exposure:
Widespread Asbestos Use: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers extensively utilized asbestos-containing materials in construction, demolition, and various projects due to asbestos’ fire-resistant properties.
Exposure Locations: Army Corps of Engineers personnel may have encountered asbestos in buildings, construction sites, vehicles, and equipment, increasing the risk of asbestos exposure.
Health Risks: Army Corps of Engineers veterans exposed to asbestos are at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Long Latency Period: Symptoms of asbestos-related illnesses often remain dormant for 10-50 years after initial exposure, underscoring the importance of regular health monitoring.
Legal Options: Veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related conditions can seek compensation through avenues such as asbestos trust fund claims or mesothelioma lawsuits.
Legal Assistance: Consulting experienced mesothelioma lawyers can assist Army Corps of Engineers veterans in understanding their legal rights, guiding them through the legal process, and securing the compensation they deserve.
Promoting Awareness: Raising awareness about the potential asbestos exposure risks faced by Army Corps of Engineers personnel during their service is essential to protect veterans’ health and well-being. Encouraging routine health check-ups can facilitate early detection and intervention.
Army Corps of Engineers Construction Vehicles:
Backhoes: Backhoe operators faced asbestos exposure through the machine’s gaskets and insulation. During maintenance and repair activities, asbestos fibers were released, posing health risks to those involved in these tasks.
Bulldozers: Army Corps of Engineers personnel operating bulldozers were exposed to asbestos through the machinery’s brake linings and clutches, which contained asbestos to withstand high friction. During maintenance and repairs, asbestos fibers became airborne, posing significant inhalation risks.
Concrete Mixers: Personnel using concrete mixers faced asbestos exposure from the machinery’s brake linings and gaskets. Repair and maintenance work disturbed asbestos fibers, posing inhalation risks to those involved.
Cranes: Crane operators and maintenance crews encountered asbestos in the brake linings and electrical components of the cranes. Routine maintenance and repairs disturbed asbestos fibers, leading to inhalation by those working on the equipment.
Drilling Rigs: Personnel using drilling rigs were exposed to asbestos in the insulation and brake systems. Maintenance and repair activities released asbestos fibers, which were inhaled by those working on the equipment.
Dump Trucks: Dump truck drivers and mechanics were exposed to asbestos through brake linings and gaskets. Asbestos fibers were released during brake replacements and engine repairs, posing health risks to those handling these tasks.
Excavators: Engineers using excavators faced asbestos exposure from the machinery’s gaskets and insulation. When performing repairs or replacements, asbestos-containing parts released hazardous fibers, which personnel inhaled during maintenance activities.
Forklifts: Forklift operators and mechanics were exposed to asbestos in the brake linings and gaskets. Routine maintenance and repairs released asbestos fibers, which were inhaled by those working on the equipment.
Graders: Personnel operating graders faced asbestos exposure from the machine’s friction components, including brake linings and clutches. Maintenance activities on these parts released asbestos fibers into the air, leading to inhalation by the operators and repair crews.
Gravel Spreaders: Engineers using gravel spreaders faced asbestos exposure from the machine’s brake systems and insulation. Maintenance and repairs on these components released asbestos fibers, leading to inhalation by operators and mechanics.
Heavy Equipment Transporters: Personnel operating heavy equipment transporters faced asbestos exposure from the brake systems and gaskets. Maintenance and repair activities disturbed asbestos fibers, leading to inhalation by operators and mechanics.
Jeeps: Jeep drivers and mechanics faced asbestos exposure from the vehicle’s brake linings and gaskets. Asbestos fibers were released during maintenance activities, posing health risks to those involved.
Loaders: Engineers using loaders encountered asbestos in the brake systems and gaskets. Maintenance and repair work on these parts released asbestos fibers, which were inhaled by personnel performing these tasks.
Pavers: Paver operators encountered asbestos in the brake linings and gaskets. Repairing or replacing these parts disturbed asbestos fibers, posing health risks to personnel performing these tasks.
Rollers: Engineers operating rollers were exposed to asbestos in the brake linings and clutches. Maintenance and repairs on these components released asbestos fibers into the air, which were inhaled by personnel.
Scrapers: Scraper operators and maintenance personnel were exposed to asbestos from the machinery’s brake linings and insulation. Repairing or replacing these components disturbed asbestos fibers, resulting in inhalation risks.
Tanks: Engineers working with tanks encountered asbestos in the insulation and brake linings. Maintenance and repair work disturbed asbestos fibers, leading to inhalation by those involved in these tasks.
Trenchers: Trenchers used by the Army Corps of Engineers contained asbestos in the brake systems and gaskets. During maintenance and repair, asbestos fibers were released, leading to inhalation by operators and mechanics.
Trucks: Truck drivers and maintenance crews were exposed to asbestos in the brake linings and gaskets. Routine maintenance and repairs released asbestos fibers, which were inhaled by personnel.
Water Trucks: Water truck drivers and maintenance crews encountered asbestos in the brake linings and gaskets. Asbestos fibers were released during maintenance activities, posing health risks to those involved.
Army Corps of Engineers Bases and Asbestos Exposure
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, tasked with vital infrastructure development and military support, inadvertently exposed its personnel to asbestos in various ways. Asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in construction, maintenance, and equipment, putting engineers and support staff at risk. This unintentional exposure highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing asbestos-related health risks faced by these dedicated individuals who served their country while unknowingly facing potential long-term health consequences.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE): ASCE personnel at conferences and training events may have encountered asbestos in older buildings, posing exposure risks.
Army Engineer School: Training facilities used asbestos-containing materials, risking exposure for instructors and students during hands-on training.
Army Engineering and Support Center: Maintenance work on aging infrastructure exposed personnel to asbestos materials present in older structures.
Army Geospatial Center (AGC): AGC staff working on equipment and facilities faced potential asbestos exposure from insulation and construction materials.
Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC): Engineers working at ERDC facilities risked asbestos exposure from aging buildings and construction materials.
Great Lakes and Ohio River Division (LRD – Cincinnati, OH): Personnel maintaining infrastructure encountered asbestos in aging structures.
Mississippi Valley Division (MVD – Vicksburg, MS): Maintenance work in the MVD region exposed personnel to asbestos-containing materials.
North Atlantic Division (NAD – Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn, NY): Asbestos-containing materials were present in facilities, risking exposure for NAD personnel.
Northwestern Division (NWD – Portland, OR): Engineers in NWD may have encountered asbestos during maintenance tasks on older structures.
Pacific Ocean Division (POD – Fort Shafter, HI): Asbestos risks were present in facilities throughout POD’s area of responsibility.
South Atlantic Division (SAD – Charleston, SC): Personnel in SAD were at risk of asbestos exposure in older buildings and facilities.
South Pacific Division (SPD – San Francisco CA): Asbestos-containing materials were present in infrastructure maintained by SPD.
Southwestern Division (SWD – Dallas, TX): SWD personnel may have faced asbestos exposure during construction, repairs, and maintenance.
The Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC): Engineers working at ERDC facilities risked asbestos exposure from aging structures and construction materials.
Theater Engineer Command Center: Asbestos risks were present in theaters where engineers operated, particularly in older venues.
Transatlantic Division (TAD – Winchester, VA): Engineers in TAD may have encountered asbestos in older construction materials and facilities.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Center: Personnel at the Corps’ headquarters were exposed to asbestos in older buildings, particularly during maintenance and renovations.
U.S. Army Engineer School (USAES): Asbestos-containing materials in training facilities posed risks to USAES staff and students during hands-on training.
U.S. Army Engineering and Support Center (CEHNC): Maintenance work exposed CEHNC personnel to asbestos materials present in aging structures.
United States Army Installation Management Command: IMCOM personnel in various installations faced asbestos exposure risks in infrastructure, particularly in older buildings and facilities.
FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY TODAY! – Call Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline – 888.640.0914
Asbestos Containing Products Used by Army Corps of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers personnel, vital for infrastructure development, encountered asbestos exposure risks in various ways. Here are 43 asbestos-containing products and how personnel were exposed:
Adhesives: Engineers encountered asbestos exposure when using adhesives during equipment repairs, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Ammunition Storage Areas: Insulation containing asbestos fibers in ammunition storage areas risked exposure during inspections, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Anchors: Handling anchors with asbestos coatings risked the release of asbestos fibers, posing a risk of exposure.
Boatswain’s Chairs: Asbestos-containing chair components posed inhalation and contact risks for personnel using them.
Boiler Insulation: Engineers faced asbestos exposure when maintaining deteriorating boiler insulation, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Brake Linings: Working on military vehicles risked asbestos exposure when handling deteriorating brake linings, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Bulkhead Insulation: Deteriorating bulkhead insulation risked asbestos fiber release during maintenance, posing exposure risks.
Caulking: Asbestos-containing caulking used in military construction could release fibers, leading to potential exposure risks.
Cement: Engineers involved in construction encountered asbestos exposure from cement materials, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Compasses: Asbestos components in compasses posed inhalation risks when used in navigational equipment.
Deck Coatings: Used during repairs, asbestos-containing deck coatings could pose exposure risks for personnel.
Duct Insulation: Engineers working on military bases encountered asbestos exposure as duct insulation deteriorated, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Electrical Panels: Insulation in electrical panels posed inhalation hazards during repairs, risking asbestos exposure.
Electrical Wiring Insulation: Working with asbestos-insulated wiring risked exposure during installations and repairs, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Elevator Shafts: Asbestos materials in elevator shafts risked fiber release during maintenance, posing exposure risks.
Engine Components: Engineers maintaining military vehicles faced asbestos exposure from engine components, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Fire Doors: Inspecting asbestos-containing fire doors risked exposure during base assessments, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Fireproofing Materials: Asbestos-containing fireproofing materials used in construction posed exposure risks for personnel.
Flooring Tiles: Handling asbestos-containing floor tiles posed exposure risks for personnel, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Gaskets: Asbestos-containing gaskets in machinery risked exposure during maintenance, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Generators: Maintaining generators with asbestos components risked exposure to personnel, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Hydraulic Systems: Maintaining military equipment exposed personnel to asbestos in hydraulic systems, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Insulated Hoses: Handling hoses with asbestos materials risked fiber release, posing exposure risks.
Joint Compound: Personnel on bases faced asbestos exposure from joint compound used in construction, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Lockers: Asbestos-containing locker materials on military bases could deteriorate, posing exposure risks for personnel.
Mast Insulation: Deteriorating mast insulation risked asbestos fiber release on ships, posing exposure risks for naval personnel.
Missile Systems: Handling missile systems with asbestos components risked exposure to personnel, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Painters: Applying asbestos-containing paint or coatings to structures risked exposure while working on surfaces coated with asbestos, posing risks for personnel.
Packing Materials: Asbestos-containing packing materials on bases posed exposure risks for personnel, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Pipe Insulation: Engineers inspecting deteriorating pipe insulation encountered asbestos exposure, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Pumps: Maintaining equipment exposed personnel to asbestos from pump components, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Radios: Use and repair of military radios with asbestos parts risked exposure to personnel, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Refrigeration Systems: Asbestos materials in refrigeration systems posed exposure risks for personnel, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Sealants: Engineers working on construction projects faced asbestos exposure from sealants, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Steering Systems: Asbestos materials in steering systems risked fiber release, posing exposure risks for personnel.
Tents: Asbestos-containing tent materials posed inhalation risks during setup and field use, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Turbines: Maintenance of equipment with asbestos-containing parts risked exposure to personnel, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Valves: Engineers inspecting and repairing valves with asbestos components faced exposure risks, risking inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Ventilation Systems: Deteriorating ventilation system materials risked asbestos fiber release, posing exposure risks for personnel.
Winches: Operating winches with asbestos components risked exposure to personnel, potentially releasing asbestos fibers.
Army Corps of Engineers Occupations and Asbestos Exposure
Occupations with Significant Asbestos Exposure: How They Were Exposed
Abatement Workers: These workers remove asbestos-containing materials and conduct abatement procedures, putting themselves at risk of direct asbestos exposure during their tasks.
Boiler Technicians: Working on boilers insulated with asbestos-containing materials, these technicians are exposed to asbestos fibers during maintenance and repair.
Carpenters: Exposed to asbestos during construction projects involving materials like insulation, siding, and roofing.
Construction Workers: Exposed to asbestos through handling construction materials like insulation and cement products in buildings and infrastructure projects.
Crane Operators: Operating cranes near asbestos-containing construction materials, crane operators risk asbestos exposure during operations.
Demolition Workers: Exposed during demolitions of older structures with asbestos-containing materials in various construction components.
Drafting Technicians: These technicians prepare technical drawings that may involve asbestos materials, facing asbestos exposure during drafting.
Electricians: Installing electrical systems with asbestos-containing materials, electricians encounter asbestos exposure risks.
Elevator Inspectors: Inspecting elevators with asbestos components, inspectors potentially encounter asbestos exposure during inspections.
Elevator Mechanics: Handling asbestos-containing materials in elevators during installation and maintenance, elevator mechanics risk asbestos exposure.
Environmental Consultants: Assessing environmental risks at sites with asbestos materials, environmental consultants risk asbestos exposure during assessments.
Environmental Engineers: Assessing sites with asbestos-containing materials, these engineers face asbestos exposure risks during environmental assessments.
Environmental Scientists: Assessing environmental risks at sites with asbestos-containing materials, these scientists encounter asbestos exposure during assessments.
Flooring Installers: Installing flooring materials with asbestos backing or adhesives, these installers face potential asbestos exposure.
Geophysicists: Conducting geophysical surveys of areas with asbestos-containing materials, geophysicists face asbestos exposure during surveys.
Geotechnical Engineers: Assessing sites with asbestos-containing materials in the ground, geotechnical engineers risk asbestos exposure during assessments.
Heavy Equipment Operators: Operating machinery near asbestos-containing construction materials, heavy equipment operators risk asbestos exposure.
Heavy Machinery Mechanics: Repairing heavy machinery with asbestos-containing components, mechanics risk asbestos exposure during maintenance.
HVAC Technicians: Installing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems with asbestos-containing insulation, these technicians encounter asbestos fibers.
Insulators: Installing asbestos insulation in buildings and industrial equipment, insulators face direct exposure to asbestos fibers.
Laborers: Exposed to asbestos during general construction and maintenance tasks involving asbestos-containing materials.
Laboratory Technicians: Conducting tests on materials containing asbestos, these technicians risk asbestos exposure in laboratories.
Masons: Working on construction projects involving asbestos-containing mortar, bricks, or cement products, masons risk asbestos exposure.
Material Handlers: Handling asbestos-containing materials during transportation and storage, these workers face asbestos exposure risks.
Painters: Applying asbestos-containing paint or coatings to structures, painters face exposure while working on surfaces coated with asbestos.
Pipefitters: Installing and repairing asbestos-containing pipe insulation and gaskets in plumbing and heating systems, pipefitters risk direct exposure.
Plumbers: Working on plumbing systems containing asbestos materials, plumbers risk asbestos exposure.
Radiation Technicians: Working with radiation equipment in areas with asbestos materials, radiation technicians risk asbestos exposure during their work.
Refrigeration Technicians: Maintaining and repairing refrigeration systems with asbestos insulation, technicians potentially expose themselves to asbestos fibers.
Roofers: Working with asbestos-containing roofing materials during installation and repair, roofers face asbestos exposure risks.
Safety Inspectors: Overseeing safety procedures in workplaces with asbestos hazards, safety inspectors face asbestos exposure during inspections.
Safety Officers: Overseeing safety procedures in workplaces with asbestos hazards, safety officers encounter asbestos exposure during safety inspections.
Sheet Metal Workers: Fabricating and installing metal structures with asbestos-containing materials, these workers encounter asbestos exposure.
Soundproofing Installers: Installing soundproofing materials containing asbestos, installers face asbestos exposure risks during installations.
Surveyors: Inspecting structures and buildings with asbestos-containing materials, surveyors potentially encounter asbestos exposure during surveys.
Welders: Exposed to asbestos when welding or cutting materials with asbestos-containing insulation or coatings.
Welding Inspectors: Inspecting structures with asbestos insulation, inspectors potentially encounter asbestos exposure during inspections.
These descriptions illustrate how various Army Corps of Engineers occupations were exposed to asbestos during their work.
TO GET HELP – Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline Number is 888.640.0914
Quick Facts About U.S. Military Veterans and Asbestos Exposure
- Asbestos was used by the U. S. Military in more than 300 different materials and products.
- Millions of U. S. Veterans have been exposed to asbestos during their tour of service.
- A recent study showed that as many as 30-40% of Mesothelioma victims is U. S. Veterans.
- Mesothelioma has affected veterans from all branches of service including those who worked in Navy shipyards.
- The U.S. Military used thousands of asbestos-containing products in their ships between the 1920-late 1970’s.
- Asbestos was listed as the top contaminant at 32 U.S. Army base closures during the 1990s.
- There are 21.5 million current living Veterans according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Malignant Mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases primarily occur in Veterans between the ages of 55-75.
- Veterans who served between 1940 and 1970 have the greatest risk of developing Mesothelioma or an asbestos-related cancer.
- 14 in every 1,000 WW II shipyard workers died of an asbestos-related disease compared to 18 in every 1,000 combat related deaths.
- Asbestos was used heavily in the shipbuilding and in military ships. Many veterans working in confined quarters have been exposed to asbestos.
Asbestos Trust Funds and Mesothelioma Claims
For a U.S. military veteran diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos trust funds can provide vital financial assistance to cover medical expenses, loss of income, and other related costs. These trust funds, established by bankrupt asbestos companies, have paid out nearly $21 billion to over 600,000 asbestos claimants, with approximately $32 billion in remaining assets across about 60 active funds.
Asbestos trust funds were created to compensate individuals and their families for illnesses resulting from asbestos exposure, including mesothelioma. When an asbestos company establishes a trust fund, all settlements are managed by trustees who determine compensation amounts for claimants. This allows victims to receive compensation without the need for lengthy litigation, as asbestos defendants can file for protection under bankruptcy reorganization.
Importantly, settlements from asbestos trust funds typically do not require an admission of guilt from the company that set up the trust. This means veterans can pursue compensation without having to prove fault on the part of the asbestos company.
If you are a military veteran with a history of asbestos exposure and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, it’s crucial to undergo regular medical check-ups by a qualified doctor. Additionally, seeking assistance from experienced mesothelioma lawyers can help veterans navigate the claims process and ensure they receive the compensation and support they deserve.
For over 24 years, we have been dedicated to helping victims of asbestos exposure and their families. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or an asbestos-related disease, we are here to assist you in filing a claim with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who will fight for your rights.
What is Mesothelioma Cancer?
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other major organs in the body. It is characterized by the presence of malignant cancer cells in the sac lining the chest (pleura) or the abdomen (peritoneum). In the United States, approximately 3,000 new cases of malignant mesothelioma are diagnosed each year. If you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to contact a doctor immediately for evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
If you or a family member has received a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, you probably have numerous questions about managing the illness and pursuing legal recourse against asbestos manufacturers and companies accountable for your asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is an extremely lethal disease, with an average survival time of 4-18 months, as per the American Cancer Society. Reach out to our toll-free number now to connect with a live mesothelioma counselor who can address many of your inquiries and offer you the reassurance you seek.
Family Member Died from Mesothelioma?
If you have a family member who has died from Mesothelioma cancer, you should immediately consult with an experienced Mesothelioma diagnosis lawyer about what compensation may be available to you from asbestos trust funds that total more than $30 billion.
We have seen many families lose their right to file a lawsuit because their Statute of Limitations had expired while they were grieving. We know it is a tough time to grieve the loss of a loved one, but please do not let your Statute of Limitations expire for filing your Mesothelioma lawsuit. In most states, the Statute of Limitations is 1-3 years.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that you file your Mesothelioma claim within your state’s Statute of Limitations.
What to Expect with a Free Mesothelioma Consultation
Expert Evaluation: Experienced attorneys will carefully review your case, including your medical history and asbestos exposure, to determine the strength of your claim.
Understanding Your Diagnosis: Attorneys will explain your mesothelioma diagnosis, its causes, and the potential legal options available to you.
Legal Guidance: You will receive expert legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you make informed decisions about pursuing legal action.
Eligibility Assessment: Attorneys will assess your eligibility for compensation, including potential asbestos trust fund claims, lawsuits, or other avenues for seeking damages.
Case Strategy: They will outline a personalized legal strategy, including the types of compensation you may be entitled to, such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Explaining the Process: You’ll gain insights into the legal process, including what to expect, key milestones, and approximate timelines.
Answering Questions: Attorneys will address any questions or concerns you have about your case, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your options.
Compassionate Support: You’ll receive empathetic and compassionate support as you navigate the complexities of a mesothelioma lawsuit.
No Upfront Costs: Importantly, a free consultation means there are no upfront fees or obligations, allowing you to explore your legal options risk-free.
Next Steps: Based on the consultation, you can decide on the next steps, whether to proceed with legal action or take other appropriate measures to seek justice and compensation for your mesothelioma diagnosis.
A mesothelioma consultation is an essential first step towards understanding your rights and potential legal recourse as you face the challenges of a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Taking Legal Action
When confronted with the devastating impact of a mesothelioma diagnosis resulting from asbestos exposure, pursuing legal action becomes a crucial step towards securing the compensation you rightly deserve. Our team is here to assist you in initiating a mesothelioma lawsuit with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, ensuring the protection of your rights and the delivery of justice. Discover today which Asbestos Trust Funds you may be eligible for to receive compensation.
Schedule a FREE Case Consultation
Scheduling a free case consultation is your first step toward seeking justice in mesothelioma cancer lawsuits. We are ready to assess your unique situation and provide the guidance you will need during this challenging time. Take this essential step toward pursuing fair compensation for your mesothelioma-related injuries.
Get Help from an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
When dealing with the complexities of mesothelioma cancer lawsuits, getting help from an experienced injury attorney is crucial. For more than 24 years, we have assisted workers, veterans, and families in obtaining the compensation they deserved from negligent asbestos companies. Contact us at 888.640.0914 to secure the support you will need throughout your pursuit of fair and just compensation.
24 Hour Call Back Guarantee!
Fill out our free Mesothelioma case evaluation form and an experienced Mesothelioma lawyer will call you to immediately start processing your claim at no cost to you.
Call Today! 888.640.0914 – Chat Available 24/7 – 365 Days a Year!
Army Corps of Engineers Ranks, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits