Camp Lejeune Water VA Claim

I. Introduction

Camp Lejeune – a United States Marine Corps base stationed in Jacksonville, North Carolina – is a historic site that speaks volumes. Established in 1941, it has been the backbone of the US Military, housing service men, women, and families over the years. Yet, Camp Lejeune carries a blemish upon its legacy. It was discovered to be the site of water contamination, a problem that affected thousands and triggered public outrage.

This article delves into pivotal details surrounding the water contamination issue at Camp Lejeune – a story of negligence, exposure, health crises, and the pursuit of justice through Veterans Affairs (VA) claims.

II. Background of the Water Contamination

The toxic water at Camp Lejeune occurred over several decades, posing grave health risks. The contamination started around the 1950s, peaking in the mid-1980s. The water supply system had toxic exposure to a concoction of harmful chemicals, primarily volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including benzene, perchloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), and vinyl chloride.

Many service members, as well as their families and civilian employees residing on the base during this period, consumed and were otherwise exposed to the contaminated water. The main housing areas affected at Camp Lejeune were Tarawa Terrace and Hadnot Point, however, those who didn’t live on-site but worked there could have been exposed as well. The health implications of this exposure began to surface much later, revealing a story that was disturbing yet largely unrecognized in its initial years.

III. The Discovery of the Contamination

The abnormal health trends among Camp Lejeune residents led to an investigation. The contamination issue was initially identified during random testing in the early 1980s. The discovery was alarming – while the safe level of drinking water contamination is just 5 parts per billion, Camp Lejeune’s water supply reportedly exceeded this limit by several hundred times.

In response, some wells linked to the contamination were closed. Concurrently, a series of studies began to determine the extent of the health impacts. The magnitude of the issue led to heavy criticism of the Navy and Marine Corps, prompting further investigation and questioning of responsibility. The Camp Lejeune Families Act was passed in 2012 to provide health care for certain conditions associated with the Camp Lejeune toxic water. In 2022, the PACT Act, otherwise known as the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, further addressed those affected by the contaminated water and experiencing negative health effects. This broadened the help Camp Lejeune victims could receive, including financial compensation for harm caused by toxic water exposure. Under these acts, veterans and their family members who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune during the time of contamination are eligible to join the Camp Lejeune lawsuit and receive compensation for the negative health effects. 

IV. Health Consequences

The water contamination at Camp Lejeune has been linked to a variety of health issues. Exposure to these harmful chemicals can lead to serious ailments, including numerous forms of cancer. Specifically, diseases like adult leukemia, aplastic anemia, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, liver cancer, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and Parkinson’s disease have been associated with the contamination.

The long-term health effects are alarming. From birth defects in children of exposed parents to systemic health deterioration in the exposed individuals, the health repercussions are devastating.

V. Veterans Affairs (VA) Involvement

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plays a key role in the Camp Lejeune water contamination case. It provides healthcare and benefits for qualifying veterans who served at Camp Lejeune. Via the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the VA offers medical care to service member families affected by the contamination.

The VA provides a comprehensive range of services to those affected. VA benefits include providing necessary treatment for the diseases associated with the contamination, working alongside other government bodies on the issue, and providing disability compensation.

VI. Making a VA Claim

Affected veterans have the right to make a VA claim based on the Camp Lejeune water contamination. In order to qualify, veterans must prove that they served at Camp Lejeune for a minimum of 30 days during the contamination period. The claims process typically involves filing a claim with the VA and providing necessary documentation and medical evidence of the health condition(s) linked to the contamination.

VII. The Claims Process

The VA reviews each claim meticulously, examining medical records and the supporting evidence provided. The process can be lengthy, typically taking several months, but the timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the claim. In instances where a claim is denied, veterans have the option to refile or appeal.

VIII. Legal Assistance

Legal assistance can be invaluable in the claims process. Navigating the VA claims process can be complex, and legal aid can mitigate some of this difficulty.

Numerous legal firms specialize in VA claims associated with the Camp Lejeune water contamination. They provide guidance on necessary documentation, assist in compiling medical evidence, and help navigate any obstacles encountered during the claims process.

IX. Concluding Thoughts

The water contamination at Camp Lejeune is a severe public health mishap that carries long-lasting health consequences. The Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit is not just a legal pursuit but symbolizes justice for all affected veterans who served at Camp Lejeune.

It’s essential for veterans to know their rights and take necessary action. This extends not only to those directly affected but also to their families who may also be suffering the repercussions of this contamination. Seeking help and filing a VA claim can be an important step forward for those impacted.