Written By: Camryn Keeble
Asbestos on Navy Cruisers
The United States Navy’s cruisers are large and heavily armed warships. They are designed to be versatile with the ability to perform a variety of roles in a naval task force. However, many Navy cruisers were built with asbestos, a toxic substance capable of causing cancer in veterans. Due to the widespread use of asbestos throughout cruisers, many Navy veterans were likely exposed to asbestos and may be at risk for developing serious illnesses.
Reviewed By
Retired LCDR Carl Jewett
VA-Accredited Claims Agent
Reviewed By
Retired LCDR Carl Jewett
VA-Accredited Claims Agent
Hazards of Asbestos on Navy Cruisers
The U.S. Navy’s cruisers have played a crucial role in projecting American power around the globe and in various military conflicts throughout history. With their versatility and firepower, these warships have been instrumental in shaping the outcome of many battles. Despite the impressive functionality of Navy cruisers, these ships and the volume of asbestos built into them may be the cause of many Veterans’ health problems and illnesses, especially the rare cancer known as mesothelioma.
Asbestos was widely used throughout construction and other industries during the 1900s. It was relatively inexpensive to purchase, heat resistant and durable, which made it a suitable material for the construction of Navy ships. Shipbuilders included asbestos in various components during construction, including the engine rooms and boilers, electrical insulation, pipe insulation, deck tiles, main engines, HPACs, ductwork, cement, gaskets and many others.
Due to the frequent use of asbestos throughout the military, one of the most common methods of asbestos exposure is military asbestos exposure. If you are a Navy veteran who served on a Navy cruiser, you may have been exposed to asbestos on your cruiser. Contact our VA-Accredited Claims Agent, retired LCDR Carl Jewett, to find out more information or for assistance filing your VA claim.
History of Navy Cruisers
During World War II, U.S. Navy cruisers played a pivotal role in protecting Allied shipping lanes, screening the fast carrier attack forces and providing fire support for amphibious assaults. Their heavy armament, including guns and torpedoes, made them a formidable opponent against enemy surface ships and submarines.
In the post-World War II era, U.S. Navy cruisers continued to play an important role in power projection, particularly during the Cold War. These warships were deployed to hotspots around the world, including the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War, to provide support for ground troops and to conduct naval operations.
Beyond their military capabilities, U.S. Navy cruisers have also been used to project American power around the world. In peacetime, these warships have conducted port visits to foreign countries, engaging in cultural exchanges and strengthening diplomatic ties. Their continued deployment around the world is a testament to their effectiveness and versatility in a wide range of military operations.
Sources & Author
- USS Oklahoma City (CLG-5) at sea in the early 1960s. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38966114. Accessed: 09/05/2023.
AI Summary of Asbestos on Navy Cruisers
This page provides information about the use of asbestos on Navy cruisers and the potential health risks it poses to veterans. Navy cruisers are large, versatile warships that have played an important role in American military history, from World War II to recent conflicts. However, during their construction and maintenance, asbestos was widely used due to its heat-resistant and durable properties. Asbestos was incorporated into many parts of these ships, including engine rooms, boilers, insulation, and various structural components. For veterans who served aboard these ships, this widespread use of asbestos means there may have been significant exposure, which can increase the risk of developing serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by asbestos fibers.
The page explains that asbestos was popular throughout the 20th century because it was inexpensive and effective at preventing heat and fire hazards. Unfortunately, this also meant that many sailors and military personnel came into contact with asbestos fibers, often without realizing the dangers. Asbestos was present in many critical parts of the ships, and exposure could happen through inhaling or swallowing asbestos dust during routine maintenance, repairs, or operational activities. The health impact of such exposure might not be immediate, and symptoms of related illnesses often develop after many years. This makes it important for veterans who served on cruisers to be aware of their exposure risk and the potential for future health issues.
The page emphasizes that veterans who suspect they may have been exposed to asbestos while serving aboard a Navy cruiser can seek support and assistance. It highlights the availability of a VA-accredited claims agent, a retired Navy officer, who is ready to help veterans navigate the process of filing claims for benefits related to asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. The information aims to provide reassurance and clarity to veterans and their families, encouraging them to seek help and support in understanding their health risks and potential benefits. Overall, the page aims to educate and empower Navy veterans by explaining the historical use of asbestos on cruisers and the importance of taking steps to access veteran benefits if exposure has occurred.