U.S. Army veterans faced significant asbestos exposure during service in barracks, motor pools, military vehicle maintenance, and Army Corps of Engineers construction projects. While exposure was less concentrated than in Navy service, Army veterans from every era have developed mesothelioma due to asbestos contact during their service. Army veterans can file both VA claims and legal claims against asbestos manufacturers.
Sources of Army Asbestos Exposure
- Barracks and base housing — asbestos insulation, floor tiles, and ceiling materials
- Motor pools — asbestos in vehicle brakes, clutches, and gaskets
- Mechanic and maintenance shops — asbestos-containing equipment and materials
- Army Corps of Engineers construction — projects involved heavy asbestos use before the 1980s
- Ordinance and supply facilities — asbestos insulation in storage facilities
- Tanks and armored vehicles — gaskets and brake components
- Helicopter and aircraft maintenance — asbestos in engines and components
Higher-Risk Army MOS Codes
- Vehicle mechanics (63-series) — brake and clutch work released asbestos
- Combat engineers (12-series) — construction and demolition exposure
- Heavy equipment operators — maintenance on asbestos-containing equipment
- Supply and logistics (92-series) — handling asbestos products
- Helicopter and aircraft mechanics — exposure during engine and brake work
Army Veteran VA Benefits
Army veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma are typically rated at 100% disability by the VA. Benefits include monthly disability compensation, priority healthcare through VA facilities, and survivor benefits. As with all military branches, VA benefits are completely separate from and compatible with legal claims against asbestos manufacturers.