Mesothelioma & Veterans: Asbestos Exposure in the Marines

Asbestos was used extensively by the U.S. military for decades, including in the Marine Corps. Products made using this dangerous mineral were installed in everything from barracks to naval vessels to take advantage of its heat-resistant properties.

Though its use reached new heights during World War II and through the Cold War era, the first report of radiological change among seamen working near asbestos involved a marine fireman in 1918. Because asbestos started being used as insulation around the turn of the last century, chances are other servicemembers were exposed before that date.

Since it was first used by the military, countless servicemembers have been exposed to asbestos. For example, an estimated 4.5 million workers were employed in asbestos-containing shipyards during World War II alone.

Once the risks associated with asbestos exposure became more well-known, many laws were passed at the state and federal levels to control its use. For example, the United States imposed four subsequent asbestos bans between 1973 and 1989. The military also began to phase out asbestos use throughout its operations.

Even so, each year that goes by sees more and more cases involving servicemembers suffering the long-term consequences of asbestos exposure. Many have died without ever exercising their right to compensation.