Toxic Exposure on Military Bases: VA Benefits & Legal Options

Many of our standing military installations that have housed hundreds of thousands of servicemembers and their families were contaminated with dangerous chemicals, exposing both military personnel and civilians to toxins that can cause serious health problems.

Common sources of contamination include leaking fuel tanks, asbestos, improper waste disposal, chemical spills, use of industrial solvents, and contaminated drinking water. In some cases, the contamination persisted for years before being publicly acknowledged, leaving thousands of people at risk for long-term illnesses. Call our attorneys to learn more about filing a VA disability claim or to take a different route in filing a private lawsuit. 

Linked Diseases and Cancers

Toxic exposure on military bases has been connected to a range of serious diseases. Veterans and civilians who lived or worked on contaminated sites have reported illnesses including:

• Leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers

• Liver, kidney, and bladder cancer

• Breast and prostate cancer

• Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease

• Autoimmune conditions

• Birth defects in children of exposed parents

• Mesothelioma and lung cancer

One of the best-known cases involves Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina. From the 1950s to the 1980s, drinking water was contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, trichloroethylene, and perchloroethylene. Veterans and families stationed there have since developed cancers, birth defects, and chronic diseases tied to that toxic exposure.

Other military bases have faced similar toxic exposure claims, including Fort McClellan in Alabama, which has been linked to exposure to PCBs and chemical agents, and Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, where groundwater contamination and chemical dumping harmed both military members and nearby residents.

Burn Pits and Airborne Hazards

Another major source of toxic exposure on U.S. and overseas military bases has been open-air burn pits. For years, large pits were used to dispose of trash, plastics, fuel, medical waste, and even chemicals. These pits released thick, toxic smoke that service members inhaled on a daily basis. Exposure to burn pits has been linked to:

• Chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Lung cancer

• Cancers of the head, neck, and gastrointestinal tract

• Autoimmune and neurological disorders

The widespread use of burn pits in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other deployments prompted Congress to pass the PACT Act in 2022, which expanded presumptive conditions for VA disability claims related to burn pit and airborne hazard exposure. Veterans and civilian contractors who worked near these bases may qualify for benefits or may pursue private litigation if their claims are denied.

Asbestos on Military Bases

In addition to chemical exposure, asbestos has been a widespread hazard on U.S. military bases. For decades, asbestos was used in construction materials, insulation, flooring, roofing, and pipe systems across military housing, barracks, and shipyards.

Veterans and civilian workers who inhaled asbestos fibers may later develop mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer—diseases that often appear decades after exposure. Many service members who lived in older base housing or worked in maintenance, ship repair, or demolition were at heightened risk.

Although asbestos use has been heavily restricted in recent years, many military facilities still contain aging asbestos materials that can release fibers when disturbed. Lawsuits and VA disability claims have been filed by veterans and families who suffered serious illnesses tied to this hidden hazard.

VA Disability Coverage Options

Veterans who became ill as a result of exposure to toxins on military bases may qualify for VA disability benefits. The Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes certain diseases as presumptively service-connected when linked to known exposure events, including Camp Lejeune. For affected veterans, the VA may provide:

• Monthly disability compensation

• Free or reduced-cost medical treatment

• Survivor benefits for families of deceased service members

However, applying for VA benefits can be complicated. Many veterans face delays, denials, or disputes about whether their illness is truly service-connected. Having legal assistance during the claims process can make a significant difference.

Private Litigation and Lawsuits

Beyond VA benefits, civilians and family members who suffered illnesses from toxic military bases may seek justice through private lawsuits. In recent years, legislation such as the Camp Lejeune Justice Act has opened the door for service members, their spouses, and even children to file claims against the government for damages related to toxic exposure. Successful lawsuits may result in compensation for:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Wrongful death claims on behalf of deceased family members

Examples of Military Toxic Exposure Lawsuits

Several military toxic exposure cases have drawn national attention, underscoring the widespread impact of contamination:

• Camp Lejeune (North Carolina): The most publicized case, involving decades of contaminated drinking water. Thousands of lawsuits are pending under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

• Fort Ord (California): Once listed as one of the most polluted military sites in the country, Fort Ord was contaminated with solvents, pesticides, and unexploded ordnance. Veterans and residents have alleged cancers and neurological diseases tied to groundwater contamination.

• Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (Hawaii): A massive jet fuel spill at the Red Hill storage facility in 2021 contaminated drinking water, sickening thousands of service members and families. Litigation has followed, with residents reporting nausea, neurological issues, and long-term health risks.

• Fort McClellan (Alabama): Veterans exposed to chemical weapons training and PCB contamination continue to pursue legal claims for cancers, reproductive issues, and autoimmune conditions.

These lawsuits highlight how toxic exposures on military bases can affect not just service members, but also their families and surrounding communities. They also illustrate the dual avenues for justice—VA disability benefits and civil litigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of chemicals were found on military bases?
   Toxic substances include benzene, trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene, industrial solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and asbestos. Many of these are proven carcinogens.

2. Can civilians who lived near military bases file lawsuits?
   Yes. Family members, civilian workers, and nearby residents who suffered illness from contamination may have valid legal claims.

3. Does VA disability automatically cover all illnesses linked to exposure?
   No. Only certain diseases are recognized as presumptive conditions. Other conditions may still be covered, but veterans must prove a connection to service.

4. What compensation is available through private litigation?
   In addition to VA disability, victims may seek damages for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and wrongful death.

5. How long do I have to file a claim?
   Deadlines vary. For example, claims under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act must be filed within specific time limits. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible is critical.

Why Hire The Lyon Firm for Military Toxic Exposure Claims?

The Lyon Firm has represented individuals nationwide in complex toxic exposure and environmental contamination cases. We understand the unique challenges veterans and civilians face when confronting the government or large institutions.

Our team investigates contaminated sites, consults with medical experts, and builds strong cases to establish the link between toxic exposure and illness. Whether you are pursuing VA disability benefits or a private lawsuit, we provide compassionate and determined legal advocacy.

If you or a loved one developed cancer, neurological disease, or other health problems after living or working on a U.S. military base, The Lyon Firm can help. Protecting your health, your rights, and your family’s future is our top priority.