USS New Asbestos Exposure: Health Risks for Veterans

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News Summary

The USS New (DD-818), a distinguished destroyer of the U.S. Navy, served from 1946 to 1976, but its legacy is marred by asbestos exposure. Many veterans face severe health issues, including mesothelioma, due to the hazardous materials used in the ship’s construction and upgrades. Awareness and legal pathways for compensation are crucial for affected individuals, as the impacts of asbestos linger long after service. The tragic history of this ship highlights the need for recognition and support for veterans grappling with these consequences.

USS New (DD-818): A Legendary Ship and its Asbestos Tragedy

The USS New (DD-818), a distinguished destroyer of the United States Navy, proudly served from 1946 to 1976, navigating the tumultuous waters of the Cold War, the Vietnam conflict, and crises in the Middle East. Unfortunately, this Navy vessel, like many of her counterparts, was rife with asbestos-containing materials, a reality that now haunts countless veterans who served aboard her.

The Legacy of a Fallen Soldier

The ship was named in honor of Private First Class John Dury New, a valorous Marine from Mobile, Alabama, who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. His selfless act of heroism on the battlefield earned him a posthumous Medal of Honor, and while the ship carries his legacy, it also carries the burden of a hidden danger that many veterans carry to this day.

From Launch to Deployment

The USS New was laid down in April 1945 and launched just months later, in August. After being commissioned in April 1946, the destroyer immediately began her service with operations that included peacekeeping missions in the Mediterranean and training exercises back home. However, the construction era of naval vessels like the New embraced the dangerous material known as asbestos.

The Asbestos Menace

During the 1940s, shipbuilders used asbestos extensively for numerous applications due to its thermal resistance, fireproofing, and insulating properties. The military’s inclination to incorporate this hazardous mineral stemmed from its effectiveness and low cost. Sadly, this disregard for health implications has led to a ticking time bomb of asbestos exposure among naval personnel.

The USS New underwent significant Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) upgrades during its service, a process that not only disturber existing asbestos materials but also installed new asbestos-laden equipment. This process further amplified the exposure risks for those on board—including not only the crew but also shipyard workers undertaking the retrofits.

Health Consequences for Veterans

The grave impact of this exposure has manifested in a range of severe health conditions among USS New veterans, including mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Many of these conditions carry long latency periods, causing symptoms to arise decades after exposure. The ill-fated combination of timing and materials has left numerous veterans grappling with the consequences of their service.

Compensation and Legal Options

For those afflicted, the path to financial compensation can be complicated yet crucial. The Department of Veterans Affairs acknowledges the link between military service and asbestos-related illnesses, providing support for eligible veterans. Such support may come in various forms, granted that veterans can document their service and connection to their medical conditions.

Additionally, many manufacturers of asbestos products have established bankruptcy trust funds specifically to compensate victims, brilliantly sidestepping liabilities even if the companies involved no longer exist. Veterans can file claims against these funds, simplifying a process that may seem complex at first glance.

The Role of Legal Representation

Veterans seeking recompense can also pursue lawsuits against corporations responsible for the asbestos products utilized during their service. Importantly, engaging in litigation to recover damages does not jeopardize a veteran’s eligibility for VA benefits, allowing for multiple avenues of compensation simultaneously.

Navigating the multifaceted nature of these claims demands experience and expertise. Mesothelioma attorneys specialize in handling such cases, providing essential resources and know-how for veterans. From gathering necessary documentation to identifying liable entities and adhering to legal timelines, these legal professionals can prove invaluable to those affected.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As the health consequences of asbestos exposure among USS New veterans become apparent, it is crucial that affected individuals take proactive measures. Recognition of the hidden dangers that linger in the shadows of naval history remains essential, and those impacted deserve the opportunity not just for treatment, but comprehensive support. By understanding the risks associated with their service and exploring available resources, veterans can turn the tide on the tragic legacy of asbestos and fight for a better tomorrow.