Army and Asbestos

For many years, vehicle brake linings, clutch facings and some gaskets contained asbestos. Soldiers who serviced trucks, jeeps, tanks and other equipment could release dust when removing worn parts, grinding new ones or cleaning brake assemblies with compressed air. Motor pool work was often done in enclosed garages with limited ventilation. Mechanics might have performed these tasks many times a week. Even soldiers who were not mechanics could be exposed if they spent time in the same work areas while repairs were underway. Describe any vehicle maintenance duties specifically when preparing a claim.

Many Army installations included buildings constructed when asbestos was common in insulation, flooring, ceiling materials and pipe coverings. Boiler plants and heating systems on base often used asbestos insulation. Soldiers assigned to facilities maintenance, engineering units or construction work might repair, renovate or demolish these structures. Those living in older barracks could be exposed if materials were damaged or deteriorating. When describing service, note the bases where you lived and worked and any tasks involving building repair, heating systems or demolition, since these details help connect your duties to likely exposure.

Your military occupational specialty, unit assignments and duty stations are key pieces of evidence. The personnel file can confirm where you served and what job you held. Training records and performance evaluations sometimes describe duties in more detail. Statements from fellow soldiers who worked alongside you can fill gaps, especially about day-to-day tasks. Because Army exposure may be less obvious to reviewers than shipboard exposure, a clear written account of your duties and the materials you handled or worked near can make a significant difference.

1. 1

   Identify your military occupational specialty codes and the dates you held each one.

2. 2

   List every base where you lived or worked and note any older buildings or boiler plants.

3. 3

   Write a detailed account of vehicle, building or heating system work you performed.

4. 4

   Ask fellow soldiers from your unit for written statements describing your shared duties.