Mesothelioma Lawyer for WWII Submarine Veterans
The 247 WWII Gato-class (77), Balao-class (122), and Tench-class (31) submarines won the Pacific War. Built primarily at Electric Boat (Groton), Manitowoc Shipbuilding (Wisconsin), Mare Island, and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Asbestos was used heavily in machinery spaces. Many continued in service through the Cold War. Documented mesothelioma exposure history among submariners and shipyard workers.
About the Gato/Balao/Tench class
- Type: WWII Diesel-Electric Submarines
- Years Active: 1941-1980 (some Korean/Vietnam War)
- Units Built: 247 combined (Gato 77 + Balao 122 + Tench 31)
Building Shipyards (Where Asbestos Exposure Occurred)
- General Dynamics Electric Boat Groton CT
- Manitowoc Shipbuilding WI (28 built)
- Mare Island Naval Shipyard CA
- Portsmouth Naval Shipyard ME
- Cramp Shipbuilding Philadelphia
How Crew + Shipyard Workers Were Exposed
The 247 WWII Gato-class (77), Balao-class (122), and Tench-class (31) submarines won the Pacific War. Built primarily at Electric Boat (Groton), Manitowoc Shipbuilding (Wisconsin), Mare Island, and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Asbestos was used heavily in machinery spaces. Many continued in service through the Cold War. Documented mesothelioma exposure history among submariners and shipyard workers.
Compensation for Gato/Balao/Tench class Veterans + Workers
Three parallel tracks for sailors, civilian shipyard workers, and family members:
- VA disability — mesothelioma is rated 100% for Navy veterans with documented service aboard Gato/Balao/Tench class vessels.
- Asbestos trust funds — typically 8-12 trusts apply (Manville, UNARCO, OC, Combustion Engineering, B&W, Garlock, Crane, Foster Wheeler, Eagle-Picher).
- Product liability lawsuits — against the private companies that supplied asbestos products to the Navy.
How Whitman Mesothelioma Law Firm Helps
We represent Gato/Balao/Tench class veterans, civilian shipyard workers, and family members nationwide. Authored by Michelle Whitman, reviewed by Paul Danziger, edited by Rod De Llano.