Destroyers and Asbestos

Known as “greyhounds of the sea,” destroyers are war vessels built to defend other ships from short-distance attacks. These powerful ships were loaded with asbestos-containing products, which exposed those who served on board. Many veterans developed asbestos-related diseases later.

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 Destroyers

U.S. Navy destroyers are high-endurance warships that had an important role in escorting larger vessels. Initially created in the 19th century, destroyers once provided defense against torpedoes.

By the beginning of the 21st century, destroyers evolved into the heaviest vessel for combat use in the United States.

Just before World War II began, destroyers were known as light-weight vessels compared to other larger and heavier ships. During this time, destroyers were primarily used, along with single destroyer tenders, to check on unattended ocean activities and operations.

When World War II ended, destroyers were used for combat roles once given to cruisers and battleships.

In turn, the military developed destroyers into bigger guided-missile vessels that became more capable of taking on independent operations. These destroyers, such as the Arleigh Burke-class, weigh around 9,200 tons and extend more than 500 feet.

Destroyers and Asbestos Use

Before the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) placed strict regulations on asbestos use in the late 1970s, the military used more than 250 asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) to construct vessels.

AMCs were used heavily in destroyers and in excess by the military due to its affordability, ease of use, and strong resistance to heat and fire.

Destroyers were created with asbestos insulation and asbestos-containing products and mixtures inside engine rooms, boiler rooms, pipes, gaskets, ceilings, flooring, and more.

Workers who helped construct or repair destroyers worked around asbestos fibers each day they went into work. Repair workers were especially at risk of asbestos exposure. They tore out old parts, which resulted in the asbestos becoming airborne.

Microscopic, odorless asbestos fibers permeated the work area and were easily inhaled and ingested.

A Veteran’s Experience

In one incident, a Navy veteran who once worked aboard the USS Chevalier, a Fletcher-class destroyer, developed a collapsed lung after being around asbestos aboard the vessel during the Korean War.

The veteran testified to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals that although he was required to wear asbestos gloves while shooting his firearm and loading it with ammunition, he received no other type of protective gear while aboard the ship.

Further, the veteran testified that he slept around many pipes constructed with asbestos-containing products while in his sleeping quarters.

When he fired his gun, asbestos would shake and become loose from the pipes and spread throughout his living area. The veteran also indicated that there was so much airborne asbestos that it looked like it was snowing inside the vessel.

Evidence of Asbestos Use On Destroyers

Numerous archived military memos and documents show evidence of excessive asbestos use on destroyers.

Confirmed asbestos use was present, according to the documents, in at least 42 destroyers. Asbestos was found in insulation, pipes, the matting on decks, heaters, steam drums, and more.

No Protective Gear

The military didn’t require workers to wear protective masks or protective clothing while working. This means that many Navy veterans are now at risk of developing life-threatening asbestos-related diseases.

Spouses and children of Navy veterans are also at risk. Workers would typically go home in work clothes littered with asbestos fibers.

Asbestos fibers were also in many workers’ hair and skin. The fibers would then transfer into the family home, putting loved ones at risk of illnesses via second-hand exposure.

Contact an asbestos law firm if you served on a destroyer and now have an asbestos disease. Experienced mesothelioma attorneys can help you get benefits and seek compensation.

Additional Help and Resources for Veterans

If you’ve been injured by mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.