Camp Lejeune, a prominent U.S. Marine Corps base, has a significant place in American military history. Unfortunately, it also holds a darker legacy—water contamination.
Servicemen, their families, and civilian employees stationed at Camp Lejeune were exposed to toxic chemicals in the water supply for decades. This exposure has resulted in a range of health issues for those affected.
This article aims to provide comprehensive information and assistance to veterans and their families. If you are one of them, this article is for you. It’s about making the process easier for you to understand and deal with filing claims for Camp Lejeune contamination.
Understanding Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Camp Lejeune faced water contamination issues from the 1950s through the 1980s. This contamination arose from various sources, including industrial spills and improper waste disposal practices.
The contamination primarily involved chemicals like trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride. These substances seeped into the base’s water supply, posing serious health risks to those who consumed them (primarily military cops and their families).
Health Effects of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Exposure to contaminated water has been linked to several health conditions. These include various cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and bladder cancer, as well as other illnesses like Parkinson’s disease, liver problems, and reproductive issues.
Initiatives for Camp Lejeune Victims
Recognizing the impact of the contamination, the U.S. government has taken steps to address the issue. The Honoring America’s Veterans and Caring for Camp Lejeune Families Act of 2012 provides healthcare to affected veterans and their families.
Filing Claims for Compensation
If you join the fight for justice in Camp Lejeune lawsuits, you are eligible for compensation. Camp Lejeune claims continue to be processed through various legal channels. Here’s what to do:
Gather Documentation: Collect any relevant medical records, service records, and other supporting documents to substantiate your claim.
Determine Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria we have outlined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for Camp Lejeune-related claims. This includes:
You may qualify for disability compensation payments based on presumptive eligibility if you meet the following criteria. These criteria are applicable to Reservists, Veterans, and National Guard members:
- During August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, you served at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River, North Carolina, for a minimum of thirty days.
- When you left the military, you didn’t get a dishonorable discharge.
Additionally, you must have a diagnosis of one or more of the following presumptive conditions:
- Liver cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Parkinson’s disease
- Adult leukemia
- Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
Evidence suggests a connection between these conditions. People were exposed to chemicals in the drinking water at Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River during this period.
| Note: Presumptive conditions are defined by law or regulation, which means it’s automatically assumed that your military service caused them. You don’t have to prove the connection; just meet the service requirements. |
File a Claim: You can submit a claim for disability compensation through the VA online, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. It’s recommended that you consult a lawyer before doing so.
To support your claim, you must provide:
- Military records demonstrating at least 30 days of service at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.
- Medical records indicate the presence of one or more of the 8 Camp Lejeune presumptive conditions.
Seek assistance: If you encounter challenges during the claims process, consider seeking assistance from legal experts specializing in military-related claims.
They can guide you through the process and ensure you submit all necessary documentation correctly. You can file your claim online, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office with the assistance of your chosen advisor.
Stay Informed: Follow updates and changes in policies related to Camp Lejeune claims to ensure you’re aware of any additional benefits or resources available.
Recognize the Significance of Taking Timely Action
Recognizing the importance of timely action is essential for effectively addressing health and disability issues. Meeting deadlines for filing compensation and appeals is essential to ensuring you receive the necessary support.
For example, failing to file a claim on time could result in missing out on vital benefits. Similarly, delaying an appeal might mean losing the opportunity to challenge a decision. Taking prompt action maximizes your chances of receiving the assistance you need. It also minimizes potential complications in the future.
Conclusion
Understanding veterans and their families through Camp Lejeune claims may seem complex. But there are assistance and resources available. These resources can help you seek the compensation you deserve for health issues caused by water contamination. By understanding the process and accessing the appropriate support, you can pursue the benefits and care you need.
