🚢 Navy Ammunition Ships Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ammunition Ships, responsible for transporting and supplying explosives and ordnance to the fleet, were constructed with extensive use of asbestos. These ships operated under high-risk conditions, and asbestos was relied upon for its fireproofing, heat resistance, and durability in machinery spaces, cargo compartments, and crew areas.
Asbestos was commonly found in boiler insulation, electrical systems, cargo hold linings, and fireproof bulkheads. Sailors loading, inspecting, or maintaining ordnance systems worked in compartments lined with asbestos materials. Maintenance crews disturbed insulation during engine work, valve replacements, or wiring upgrades. Over time, airborne asbestos fibers spread throughout the ship, especially in confined, poorly ventilated areas.
Veterans who served on ammunition ships now face elevated risks for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Legal and trust fund compensation may be available—without affecting VA benefits.
Why Asbestos Was Used in Ammunition Ships
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Fireproofing in ordnance cargo compartments
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Pipe insulation in engine and pump rooms
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Gasket materials in pressure systems and valves
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Wall panels and ceiling tiles in crew areas
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Electrical insulation to prevent arc-induced fires
These materials were frequently disturbed during ship maintenance, overhauls, and rearming operations.
Navy Ammunition Ship Missions
| Vessel Type | Missions |
|---|---|
| AE-Class Ships | Delivering munitions and explosives at sea |
| AE-29–AE-36 Ships | Modernized logistics with automated systems |
| Converted Liberty Ships | WWII-era ordnance carriers |
These ships enabled continuous combat operations by restocking front-line vessels.
Estimated Personnel Exposed on Ammunition Ships
| Role | Exposure Description |
|---|---|
| Ordnance Technicians | Loaded cargo holds lined with asbestos insulation |
| Boiler Technicians | Maintained steam systems wrapped in asbestos |
| Electrician’s Mates | Repaired wiring surrounded by heat-resistant insulation |
| Hull Technicians | Replaced gaskets and tile adhesives in confined areas |
| Crew Members | Slept near asbestos flooring and ceiling materials in berthing areas |
Total Estimated Exposure: Over 9,000 Navy personnel served aboard ammunition ships containing asbestos.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials on Ammunition Ships
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Pipe and steam line insulation
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Thermal wrap on bulkheads and ceilings
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Fire-retardant cargo liners
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Floor tiles and adhesives
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Gaskets in high-pressure fluid systems
High-Risk Exposure Areas on Ammunition Ships
Cargo Holds
Insulated with fireproof asbestos to protect ordnance
Engine and Boiler Rooms
Extreme heat and degraded pipe insulation
Electrical Control Areas
Asbestos paneling behind switchboards and wiring
Crew Quarters
Friable floor tile and crumbling ceiling panels
Long-Term Health Risks from Ammunition Ship Asbestos Exposure
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Mesothelioma – Cancer from inhaled asbestos fibers
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Asbestosis – Chronic lung disease with scarring
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Lung Cancer – Often develops years after exposure
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Pleural Plaques/Thickening – Causes chest pain and breathing problems
Legal Options for Ammunition Ship Veterans
Veterans aboard AE-class and converted ordnance ships have filed claims:
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Boiler technician exposed during pipe wrap replacements
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Ordnance handler developed illness after years in cargo hold operations
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Hull tech removed asbestos-laden wall panels during a retrofit
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Crewman diagnosed decades after exposure in berthing areas
Sample Asbestos Settlements
| Case Summary | Settlement Amount |
|---|---|
| Ordnance handler exposed in cargo compartment | $4.9 million |
| Electrician exposed during switchboard retrofitting | $4.3 million |
| Crew member slept in asbestos-lined quarters | $4.0 million |
| Machinist worked in asbestos-lined boiler room | $3.8 million |
Asbestos Manufacturers & Contractors Involved
| Company | 12-Word Description |
|---|---|
| National Steel | Built many WWII-era ammunition ships |
| Owens Corning | Supplied fireproof insulation and adhesives |
| Johns-Manville | Provided pipe insulation and boiler wraps |
| Eagle-Picher | Produced asbestos mastics and thermal blankets |
| Raybestos | Supplied gasket and brake products for Navy vessels |
| Westinghouse | Installed asbestos insulation in control panels |
| Bendix | Distributed asbestos valve packing and fittings |
| General Electric | Supplied arc-proof electrical insulation |
These companies contributed to national asbestos trust funds now available to veterans.
Veterans & Asbestos Trust Funds
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Over $30 billion still available for victims
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Navy ammunition ship veterans may qualify for claims
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No court appearances required
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Claims do not affect VA disability or pensions
VA Benefits for Ammunition Ship Veterans with Mesothelioma
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100% VA disability rating
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Monthly tax-free payments over $3,800
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DIC compensation for spouses and dependents
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Specialized mesothelioma treatment through VA medical centers
Filing an Asbestos Lawsuit or Trust Fund Claim
Free Legal Review
Verify service aboard ammunition ships and asbestos exposure history.
Collect Evidence
Include pathology reports, ship records, and witness statements.
File Legal & Trust Fund Claims
Target all responsible manufacturers and contractors.
Receive Compensation
Most cases resolve in 6–18 months. No legal fees unless successful.
Statute of Limitations
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Legal Claims: 2–3 years from diagnosis
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Wrongful Death: 2–3 years from date of passing
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Trust Fund Claims: Deadlines vary—contact us immediately
Frequently Asked Questions (Ammunition Ship Asbestos Exposure)
Q. Did all AE-class ships contain asbestos?
Yes. Nearly all were built before 1980 using asbestos components.
Q. Can I file a claim now, decades after serving?
Yes. Eligibility is based on diagnosis date, not when you served.
Q. Can surviving family members file claims?
Yes. Spouses and dependents may pursue DIC or wrongful death lawsuits.
Q. Will I lose VA benefits if I file a lawsuit?
No. Legal action does not interfere with VA compensation.
Why Work with Mesothelioma Help Center
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Over 25 years of success in Navy asbestos litigation
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Access to detailed ammunition ship blueprints and crew records
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Legal team with proven multimillion-dollar verdicts
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No fees unless we recover compensation
Free Legal Consultation for Ammunition Ship Veterans
If you or a loved one served aboard a Navy ammunition ship and developed mesothelioma or another asbestos illness:
Call 800.291.0963 for your free legal case review today.