Asbestos use was widespread in the U.S. military during the 20th century, reaching its peak during the Second World War WWII war effort, when large amounts of accessible materials were required to produce military equipment.
The Navy, in particular, used the most asbestos compared to other military branches. Ships built before the 1980s were insulated from bow to stern with this toxic material, creating a safe, fireproof environment. While effective in its purpose, this substance measure also put naval personnel at an exceedingly high risk of asbestos exposure.
Due to the widespread use of asbestos in military property — including vehicles, aircraft, ships, shipyards, and barracks — veterans, especially those from WWII and the of the Second World War, Korean, and Vietnam conflicts War, risked asbestos exposure whenever they carried out their duties. In addition to being exposed to other hazardous materials, working near asbestos-containing products may have been a supplemental risk to Arkansas veterans’ deteriorating health , as diseases due to toxic exposure are on the rise today . This issue may have effects on Arkansas and Little Rock veteran communities . Arkansas hosts five military bases , adding to the value of the country’s defense. The state’s WWII military history includes Camp Robinson , once known as Camp Pike, headquarters of the Arkansas National Guard between World War I and World War II. Although it was built almost a decade after World War II ended, Little Rock Air Force Base also is integral to Arkansas military history. It was involved in the Gulf War when the base joined the war from the Middle East and European theaters. Asbestos exposure permanently impacts veterans’ health
Due to their size and structure, airborne asbestos particles can remain in the air for hours when disturbed. These microscopic, sharp-edged threads are easily inhaled or ingested, making asbestos dust one of the most toxic substances humans have encountered. Once inside the body, these tiny fibers cause permanent damage to major organs and lead to devastating diseases.
One of the most horrible aspects of diseases stemming from asbestos exposure is the decades-long latency period between […]
Why asbestos exposure may be an issue for Arkansas veterans, even today
