Camp Lejeune Base Legal: Your Rights As A Veteran

The infamous Camp Lejeune, a United States Marine Corps base in North Carolina, has been marred by controversy and environmental disaster. For decades, thousands of veterans, their families, and civilians lived and worked on the base, unknowingly exposed to toxic chemicals in the water supply. The consequences have been devastating, with numerous health problems and even deaths linked to the contamination. As a veteran who served at Camp Lejeune, it's essential to understand your rights and the actions you can take to seek justice.

History of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

The water contamination at Camp Lejeune dates back to the 1950s, when the base's water supply was tainted with toxic chemicals, including trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), and vinyl chloride. These chemicals were commonly used in cleaning solutions, paint thinners, and other products, which were improperly disposed of, leading to the contamination of the base's water supply. Despite warnings from environmental agencies and health experts, the contamination continued for decades, affecting an estimated 1 million people, including veterans, their families, and civilians.

Health Effects of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

The health effects of exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune are numerous and severe. Some of the most common health problems linked to the contamination include:

Cancer (including breast, lung, and kidney cancer)
Neurological disorders (such as Parkinson's disease and ALS)
Reproductive issues (including birth defects and infertility)
Kidney disease
Liver disease

VA Benefits for Camp Lejeune Veterans

In 2012, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) established a program to provide medical benefits to veterans who served at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between 1957 and 1987. The program covers eight conditions, including:

Kidney cancer
Liver cancer
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Leukemia
Multiple myeloma
Parkinson's disease
Scleroderma
Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes

To be eligible for these benefits, veterans must have served at Camp Lejeune during the specified time period and have been diagnosed with one of the covered conditions.

How to File a VA Claim

If you're a veteran who served at Camp Lejeune and have been diagnosed with a health problem linked to the water contamination, you may be eligible for VA benefits. To file a claim, follow these steps:

Gather your military records and medical documentation.
Fill out the VA's Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21-526).
Submit your application and supporting documents to the VA.
Wait for the VA to process your claim and make a decision.

Camp Lejeune Lawsuits and Settlements

In addition to VA benefits, many veterans have filed lawsuits against the government and chemical companies responsible for the contamination. These lawsuits seek compensation for the health problems and other damages caused by the contaminated water. Some notable settlements include:

In 2014, the government agreed to pay $2.2 billion to settle claims from over 100,000 veterans and family members.
In 2017, a federal judge approved a $10.5 million settlement for a group of veterans who developed cancer and other health problems due to the contamination.

How to File a Lawsuit

If you're considering filing a lawsuit, it's essential to consult with an experienced attorney who has handled Camp Lejeune cases. They can help you determine the best course of action and guide you through the legal process.

Conclusion

As a veteran who served at Camp Lejeune, it's crucial to understand your rights and the actions you can take to seek justice. From VA benefits to lawsuits, there are various options available to you. Don't hesitate to reach out to an experienced attorney or the VA to explore your options.

We'd love to hear from you! Have you or a loved one been affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination? Share your story in the comments below.