The US Marine Corps has a base there called Camp Lejeune. The water supply at this base was found to have been significantly contaminated for many years. As a result, many veterans who served at Camp Lejeune were harmed and put at risk.
Backstory of Camp Lejeune
Before there were Camp Lejeune veterans, there was the birth of Camp Lejeune. The goal of Camp Lejeune was always to maintain combat-ready troops for expeditionary deployment. People came in from other countries all over the world to train there. The US Marine Corps Base had many strong points during World War II when it was chosen as a base, including:
- A water port.
- No public streets or roads.
- Far from any community or industry.
- Isolated from the general public.
- Full of woodlands and ideal for cover.
- Long stretch of beach.
All of the aforementioned factors combined to make Camp Lejeune one of the best training grounds in the country. Now that we have discussed the history of Camp Lejeune briefly, let us focus on its water contamination issue and how this has harmed the veterans who trained there.
Camp Lejeune Contamination
For years, Camp Lejeune veterans have fought for recognition and compensation for the injuries they suffered as a result of being exposed to dangerous chemicals in the base’s water system. These dangerous chemicals include PCE, TCE, benzene, and vinyl chloride. All of the aforementioned chemicals are very closely linked to serious health conditions that may lead to premature death.
The drinking water was seriously harmed by the hazardous substance in the Camp Lejeune water system. Many of the residents thought that the contaminated water was to blame for their current health problems. In fact, many health problems were brought on by the water, and many people are suing the US government for any resulting harm.
According to research, the polluted water both causes and exacerbates many conditions. Countless loved ones died as a result of the contaminants. However, the PACT Act, a recent federal law, now allows the surviving family members of Camp Lejeune victims to file wrongful death lawsuits. In addition, people who were directly affected by the contamination can seek compensation for what they have endured.
Veterans of the Marine Corps
Veterans who were exposed to contaminated water while serving in the military at Camp Lejeune have been battling the US government for their right to compensation for a long time. President Barack Obama passed legislation in 2012 that gave the impacted veterans $2 billion in Medicare and benefits. But that was just the tip of the iceberg. There was still much to be accomplished.
As of 2022, both the US government and the Marine Corps will finally be cooperating. Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, the victims are now getting more than just money. They are also getting the respect they deserve.
This law was passed in August 2022 under the “Honoring Our PACT Act.” All Camp Lejeune water poisoning victims now have the option of suing the US government thanks to this statute. In other words, you have the legal right to seek compensation if the poor water at Camp Lejeune has harmed you or someone close to you. We implore everyone to take action right away and stop waiting. Besides this legal path being available, veterans can also file VA claims for benefits.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits
Camp Lejeune veterans are eligible for VA benefits, including health care, covered by the new bill. The Act states that those who have been harmed by contaminated water are qualified for a range of disability compensation. The benefits that one may receive will depend on a number of things. The length of time the individual was exposed will be one of several factors.
Reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are all eligible for VA benefits. Former service personnel are urged to submit claims so they can receive the reparations they are due after their extensive service. Numerous individuals continue to struggle for justice, even now. So, join them right away if you or someone you know has been impacted.