Which Military Sites Have Been Contaminated With PFAS?

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified more than 700 U.S. military sites that have been contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS “forever chemicals.”
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C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt
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If you or a loved one experienced cancer, immune system disorders, or other serious health issues following exposure to PFAS contamination at military bases, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

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Military PFAS Contamination Lawsuit Overview

Military PFAS contamination lawsuits focus on the widespread toxic exposure caused by the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam (AFFF) at hundreds of military installations across the United States.

These legal actions allege that the military and chemical manufacturers knowingly used these harmful “forever chemicals” without adequately warning personnel or nearby communities about the serious health risks.

According to the Department of Defense, at least 710 military sites in all 50 states are known or suspected to have discharged toxic PFAS, with confirmed contamination in drinking water or groundwater at 397 of these locations.

The contamination primarily stems from decades of mandatory PFAS-based firefighting foam use during training exercises, creating an environmental crisis that has affected military personnel, their families, and surrounding communities.

Latest Military PFAS Contamination Lawsuit Updates

  • 2024: The Department of Defense has allocated billions of dollars for PFAS cleanup efforts at military installations nationwide, acknowledging the extensive contamination and its impact on service members and surrounding communities.
  • 2023: Multiple federal lawsuits have advanced against manufacturers of PFAS-containing firefighting foam used at military bases, with courts denying motions to dismiss based on the government contractor defense.
  • 2022: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) released updated mapping of military PFAS contamination sites, revealing that testing has confirmed PFAS in drinking water or groundwater at 397 military installations, with potential contamination at an additional 313 sites [1].
  • 2021: The U.S. military began phasing out PFAS-based AFFF firefighting foam at installations nationwide, though this does not address the existing contamination that has accumulated over more than 50 years of use.

These developments illustrate the growing recognition of the military PFAS contamination crisis and increasing efforts to hold responsible parties accountable.

The scale of the contamination continues to expand as additional testing reveals PFAS in more locations, with cleanup costs projected to reach into the billions of dollars.

Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Update

Government Reports and Statistics

Federal agencies have compiled extensive data on military PFAS contamination:

  • The Department of Defense has identified at least 710 military installations with known or suspected PFAS discharges.
  • Water testing has confirmed PFAS contamination in drinking water or groundwater at 397 military sites.
  • The remaining 313 identified sites have potential contamination that may be confirmed through additional testing.
  • Michigan, the Ohio River Valley, and California have been identified as the states most severely affected by PFAS contamination.
  • Military cleanup costs for PFAS contamination are estimated to exceed $2 billion.
  • PFAS levels at some military installations have been measured at thousands of times higher than EPA health advisory levels.

Beyond PFAS, military sites also contain numerous other toxic substances including chlorinated solvents, industrial chemicals, petroleum hydrocarbons, and metals at levels exceeding EPA guidelines.

These contaminants are designated as substances that cause serious illnesses or pose environmental threats when improperly managed.

Military PFAS Contamination Injuries & Side Effects

Exposure to PFAS and other toxic chemicals at military installations has been linked to numerous serious health conditions that can develop years after exposure.

Some of these illnesses can include:

The health effects are particularly concerning because PFAS chemicals can remain in the body for years after exposure, with elimination half-lives ranging from 3-7 years depending on the specific compound.

Do You Qualify for a Military PFAS Contamination Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a military PFAS contamination lawsuit if:

  • You served at, worked at, or lived on or near one of the 710 military installations identified with PFAS contamination.
  • You were stationed at or resided near the affected military base for at least one year.
  • You have been diagnosed with a condition linked to PFAS exposure, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, or other associated illnesses.
  • Your diagnosis occurred after your time at or near the contaminated military installation.
  • You have no family history or other clear risk factors that would better explain your condition.

Even if you haven’t developed symptoms but were exposed to contaminated water at military installations, you might qualify for medical monitoring compensation, particularly if you have elevated PFAS levels in your blood.

Evidence Required for a Military PFAS Contamination Lawsuit

To build a strong case for your military PFAS contamination lawsuit, you should gather the following evidence:

  • Military Service Records: Documentation of your service, including dates and locations of stationing.
  • Residency Records: Proof of residence on or near affected military installations.
  • Medical Records: Documentation of your diagnosis and treatment for PFAS-related health conditions.
  • Water Testing Results: If available, results showing PFAS in drinking water at your military base or residence.
  • Blood Tests: Laboratory results indicating elevated PFAS levels in your bloodstream.
  • Expert Testimony: Medical opinions linking your condition to PFAS exposure.

An experienced attorney can help you gather and present this evidence effectively to strengthen your claim.

Damages You Can Recover

If your military PFAS contamination lawsuit is successful, you may be eligible to recover various types of damages:

  • Medical Expenses: Costs for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for PFAS-related conditions.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for work missed due to illness and treatment.
  • Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Diminished Quality of Life: Compensation for permanent changes to your lifestyle and capabilities.
  • Medical Monitoring: Funding for ongoing screening and early detection of potential PFAS-related conditions.
  • Wrongful Death: Compensation for families who have lost loved ones to PFAS-related illnesses.
  • Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases where manufacturers knowingly concealed PFAS risks.

Military PFAS Contamination Remediation Efforts

While not a traditional product recall, the military has initiated significant remediation efforts for PFAS contamination:

  • The Department of Defense has begun phasing out PFAS-based AFFF firefighting foam at installations nationwide.
  • Alternative firefighting foams without PFAS are being developed and implemented.
  • Billions of dollars have been allocated for cleanup of existing PFAS contamination at military bases.
  • Advanced water filtration systems are being installed at affected installations.
  • Ongoing monitoring programs have been established to track contamination levels and spread.

Despite these efforts, the remediation process is extremely challenging because PFAS chemicals do not break down naturally in the environment, earning them the designation “forever chemicals.” Complete cleanup may take decades and billions of dollars.

Statute of Limitations for Military PFAS Contamination Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a military PFAS contamination lawsuit varies depending on several factors:

  • Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) claims typically require filing an administrative claim within two years of when the claim accrues.
  • State laws vary, with most personal injury claims having 2-3 year statutes of limitations.
  • The “discovery rule” may extend deadlines in cases where the connection between PFAS exposure and illness wasn’t immediately apparent.
  • Special provisions may apply for veterans and military personnel.
  • Class action and multidistrict litigation may have different timeline considerations.

Because of these complexities, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney experienced in military PFAS litigation as soon as possible after discovering potential exposure or related health issues.

The “discovery rule” is particularly important in PFAS cases since many people only recently became aware of contamination at military installations where they previously served or lived.

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FAQs

1. How many military bases have PFAS contamination?

At least 710 military installations across all 50 states are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination, according to the Department of Defense. Drinking water or groundwater testing has confirmed PFAS at 397 of these sites, with potential contamination at the remaining 313 locations.

2. Does the military still use PFAS?

While the U.S. military has started phasing out PFAS-based firefighting foam (AFFF), the process is ongoing. Decades of use have led to widespread environmental contamination, and cleanup efforts are expected to cost billions of dollars due to the difficulty and expense of removing these persistent chemicals.

3. What other contaminants are present on military sites?

In addition to PFAS, military sites often contain hazardous substances like chlorinated solvents, petroleum hydrocarbons, industrial chemicals, and heavy metals. These contaminants pose significant health risks and environmental threats when not properly managed.

4. Which states are most affected by military PFAS contamination?

Michigan, Ohio River Valley, and California are among the states most severely impacted by PFAS contamination. However, this is a nationwide issue, with confirmed contamination at hundreds of military sites across all 50 states.

5. Can I join a class-action lawsuit for PFAS contamination cases?

Some PFAS cases may be part of a class-action lawsuit, but many are handled individually due to the specific nature of each claim. An attorney can assess your situation and advise you on the best legal approach, taking into account your exposure, health issues, and the military base involved.

6. How can an attorney help with my PFAS exposure lawsuit?

An attorney can assist by gathering essential evidence, navigating complex legal procedures, negotiating with defendants, and representing you in court if necessary. They ensure that your rights are upheld and work to secure maximum compensation for any PFAS-related health problems.

7. How do I choose the right attorney for a military PFAS contamination lawsuit?

Look for an attorney with experience in environmental law and military toxic exposure cases, a history of successful settlements, and positive client feedback. A qualified attorney will offer a free consultation and should have specific knowledge in PFAS litigation.

8. What should I avoid doing if I plan to file a PFAS exposure lawsuit?

Avoid delaying medical treatment, failing to keep thorough documentation of symptoms, signing any documents from defendants without legal consultation, missing filing deadlines, and discussing your case on social media. These actions could harm your case and limit your ability to pursue compensation.

9. Are family members of military personnel eligible for compensation?

Yes, family members who lived on or near military bases with PFAS contamination and developed related health issues may be eligible for compensation. The same qualifications apply as with military personnel, including proof of exposure duration and related medical conditions.

10. How long does a military PFAS contamination lawsuit typically take?

These cases typically take 1-3 years to resolve, although some may settle more quickly, while others may take longer, particularly if they go to trial. The timeline depends on case complexity, the number of plaintiffs, and whether the case is part of a multidistrict litigation (MDL).

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Time is limited to pursue legal action for military PFAS contamination injuries. Statutes of limitations vary based on jurisdiction and claim type, but typically range from 2-3 years from when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered your injury and its connection to PFAS exposure.

For claims against the federal government, the Federal Tort Claims Act requires filing an administrative claim within two years. Waiting too long could permanently bar you from seeking the compensation you deserve.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

  • Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
  • No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
  • Payment only if we win your case or secure a settlement
  • Experienced attorneys specializing in military toxic exposure litigation

The science linking PFAS to serious health conditions continues to evolve, strengthening cases against those responsible for military contamination. Don’t delay in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve for PFAS-related injuries.

References:

  1. https://www.ewg.org/interactive-maps/2020-military-pfas-sites/map/#

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