Dangerous toxins have been found in the water at Naval Air Station Lemoore in California. Veterans who were subject to toxic exposure at NAS Lemoore and later developed health complications may be owed VA disability benefits. This article explains more about NAS Lemoore toxic exposure and how affected veterans can qualify for VA compensation.
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In this article about NAS Lemoore toxic exposure:
NAS Lemoore toxic exposure
Located in Lemoore, California about 40 miles south of Fresno, Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore was established in 1961 to support the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet. An average of 210,000 flight operations occur on the base annually, and it is the largest master jet base in the country. It employs almost 8,500 service members and civilians.
Veterans who served at Lemoore Naval Air Station may have been exposed to various toxins, most notably through the water supply on base. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), the following toxins have been found in the water on base and exceed the organization’s guidelines:
- Heavy metals. Arsenic and chromium were both found in the water on base at NAS Lemoore and exceed the EWG’s safe drinking water guidelines. Exposure to high levels of these substances can cause heavy metal poisoning which can result in organ failure.
- Haloacetic acids (HAAs). HAAs are chemicals that form when chlorine or other disinfectants react with naturally occurring organic matter in water. Certain types of HAAs are considered potentially carcinogenic.
- Trihalomethanes (THMs). Like HAAs, THMs are the result of a reaction between chlorine and organic matter in water. Exposure to high levels of these chemicals is associated with cancer and reproductive issues.
- Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These are synthetic chemicals that don’t break down easily in the environment. They’re found in things like waterproof clothing, fire extinguisher foam, paint, and cleaning supplies. Exposure to and buildup of these chemicals can result in health issues including reproductive issues, developmental delays in children, and increased risk of prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers, among other concerns.
The EWG detected PFAS levels of about 28,060 parts per trillion (ppt) in 2022, which significantly exceeds the Environmental Protection Agency’s maximum contaminant levels of between 4 and 10ppt.
NAS Lemoore asbestos exposure
From the 1930s through the 1990s, the Navy often used asbestos-containing material (ACM) in ship building and construction materials found above and below deck, leaving many Navy veterans at a higher risk of developing an asbestos-related illness.
Some Navy veterans may have even been exposed to asbestos while on base. According to one report, disposal records from NAS Lemoore listed asbestos among the waste found in at least one landfill on the base.
Veterans who served at NAS Lemoore may have been exposed to asbestos if they spent time in buildings or barracks with flooring, roofing, pipes, or insulation containing ACM. Additionally, the VA recognizes Navy veterans who performed any of the following duties during service are at a higher risk of developing an asbestos-related illness:
- Demolishing asbestos-containing structures
- Removing or handling of damaged asbestos materials
- Working as a pipefitter, welder, boiler operator, building renovator, or demolition specialist
- Serving in Iraq and other countries where older buildings were damaged
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious conditions such as asbestosis, pleural plaques, and mesothelioma.
“If you were injured while serving this country and are reading this review, I encourage you to contact Woods & Woods right away. They are always standing ready to assist veterans in need.”
J.B., a Navy veteran in Virginia
NAS Lemoore VA disability claims
If you are a veteran who served at Lemoore Naval Air Station and believe you were exposed to a toxin that caused or worsened your health issue, you may be entitled to VA disability benefits.
Unfortunately, despite evidence of toxins at NAS Lemoore, the VA does not presumptively recognize any adverse health conditions associated with service at the base. However, this does not mean you can’t get the disability compensation you deserve.
Any veteran who believes their health condition is tied to NAS Lemoore toxic exposure may still be eligible to receive VA disability benefits if they are able to establish a connection between their service and their condition.
To do this, the veteran must usually have a medical nexus, or a professional medical opinion linking the diagnosis to an in-service cause. Additional supporting evidence including your military records and lay statements can also support your claim and help prove service connection.
Because NAS Lemoore asbestos and toxic exposure claims can be difficult to prove, it may be helpful to hire an accredited VA disability lawyer to help build your case.
How Woods & Woods can help
The VA-accredited attorneys at Woods &Woods have helped thousands of veterans nationwide get the disability benefits they deserve. Call us today for a free case evaluation. You won’t pay us a dime unless we win your case.
Talk to Us About Your Claim:
(812) 426-7200
Frequently asked questions
If you are a veteran who served at NAS Lemoore and believe you were exposed to a toxin that caused or worsened your health issue, you may be entitled to VA disability benefits.
Various toxins including heavy metals and PFAS were detected in the water on base at NAS Lemoore. If you were subject to NAS Lemoore toxic exposure and later developed a related health condition, you may be owed compensation from the VA.
Neil Woods
Neil Woods is a VA disability attorney and the owner and president of Woods & Woods. He received his law degree from Western Michigan University.
