Auxiliary Ships and Asbestos

The support, defense, and numerous other roles of auxiliary ships were crucial to the U.S. military. Unfortunately, these vessels contained many asbestos components. Veterans who worked or served on them are now at risk of asbestos illnesses.

If you or a loved one have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, set up for those who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

About Auxiliary Ships

Auxiliary ships have always been an important part of the Navy. Without auxiliary ships, the Navy’s foremost ships aren’t as powerful. 

Auxiliary ships are responsible for replenishing supplies and food to other vessels, transporting fuel, and transporting boats and sailors. Some auxiliary ships tow damaged vessels to safety, while others served as defense vessels. Auxiliary ships vary significantly in size from small, medium, to large.

Some of the most common types of auxiliary ships developed by the U.S. Navy include:

• Tenders
• Tankers
• Tugboats
• Salvage ships
• Crane ships
• Command ships
• Storage ships
• Surveying ships
• Hospital ships
• Fleet ocean tugs
• Net cargo ships
• Light cargo ships
• Fast combat support ships
• Evacuation transports
• Helicopter aircraft repair ships

Although there were once numerous types of auxiliary ships in use, the Navy doesn’t currently have many active today.

Along with 16 Barracks ships, 14 dry cargo ships, and 13 Unclassified Ships, the only active auxiliary ships today include the:

• USS Emory S Land
• USS Mercer
• USS Frank Cable
• USS Neodesha
• USS Pueblo

Asbestos Use in Auxiliary Ships

As with every other vessel constructed by the military before the 1970s, auxiliary ships were built with asbestos-containing products. The military used the toxic mineral for its affordability, ease of use, and resistance to heat and fire. Over 250 asbestos-containing products were once used to build vessels.

Asbestos was used in a variety of products and equipment on auxiliary ships, including:

• Boilers
• Gaskets
• Ship decks
• Walls
• Insulation
• Bulkheads
• Cement
• Pipes

Archived military documents and memos showed that asbestos-containing products were used on auxiliary ships from 1944 until 1966.

Johns Manville was one of the leading suppliers of asbestos to the military. It was an asbestos manufacturing company that has faced numerous mesothelioma lawsuits.

Other asbestos manufacturers contributing to asbestos on auxiliary ships include Eagle Picher and Union Asbestos and Rubber Company.

Veterans and Asbestos

U.S Navy veterans who constructed, repaired, or worked aboard auxiliary ships are at the highest risk of developing asbestos illnesses. These include malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis, and asbestos-related lung cancer.

Since the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases can take up to 50 years to surface, it’s important to undergo regular medical checkups as soon as possible.

If you served in the military and received a diagnosis of asbestos illness, contact an asbestos attorney. They can help you understand your legal options and seek compensation and benefits.

Additional Help and Information

Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. Keep in mind that if you have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for considerable compensation. For additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.