13 Military Occupations At Risk for Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure has long been a hidden danger in various military occupations, putting countless veterans at risk for developing serious health conditions, including mesothelioma. While asbestos exposure was most common in the Navy, occupations in every military branch may be at risk. If you were exposed to asbestos in the military and later developed mesothelioma or another life-altering condition, you may have grounds to file a claim for the losses you have suffered.

At The WIlliams Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to helping veterans who have been exposed to asbestos recover compensation for their losses. We understand the unique challenges you face and will work with you to achieve a favorable outcome for your claim. Our renowned lead attorney, Joe Williams, is committed to protecting your rights and interests. With an undefeated track record in mesothelioma cases, he is ready to fight tirelessly for justice on your behalf. 

Navy Occupations At Risk for Asbestos Exposure

The onset of World War II spurred the U.S. Navy to build and deploy thousands of new ships. Because of its fire-resistant properties, asbestos was a common building material throughout naval ships, putting all Navy veterans at risk. A few Navy occupations that may have been exposed to asbestos include the following:

• Boatswain’s mates: These individuals were responsible for maintenance duties above and below deck. 
• Boiler technicians: Asbestos sheets were commonly used for boiler gasket maintenance. 
• Damage controlman: These veterans were responsible for firefighting and controlling damage after an enemy attack. They often wore fire-resistant suits made from asbestos fibers.
• Electrician’s mates: Because electrician work requires handling the ship’s infrastructure, electrician’s mates were often exposed to asbestos. 
• Fire control technicians: These veterans were responsible for maintaining the ship’s weapons systems, typically kept cool with asbestos insulation. 
• Gunner’s mates: When maintaining the artillery and other armaments, gunner’s mates typically wore asbestos gloves to protect from burns. 

This is only a partial list, and there are several navy occupations with the potential for asbestos exposure. When working on these cases, our firm uses records from the U.S. Naval Archive and can obtain a list of materials from the ship to pinpoint the source of your asbestos exposure. 

Army Occupations At Risk for Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos was commonly used in the Army to build vehicles, bases, weapons, and other gear. A few Army occupations at a higher risk for asbestos exposure include:

• Artillerymen: When handling ammunition, artillerymen often wore asbestos gloves due to their fire resistance. 
• Infantrymen: Many of the weapons and vehicles that infantrymen used daily contained asbestos. 
• Vehicle mechanics: Vehicle mechanics were exposed to asbestos-containing materials in brake pads, gaskets, and other components while on the job. 

If you believe you were exposed to asbestos in the Army, our team can evaluate every detail of your case and help you determine the best path forward. 

Air Force Occupations At Risk for Asbestos Exposure

Unfortunately, asbestos was also a common material used to build many aircraft. Air Force occupations at risk for asbestos exposure include the following:

• Aircraft mechanics: These veterans often had to handle asbestos-containing materials when working on the plane’s engine and other systems. 
• Environmental support specialists: Environmental support specialists conducted inspections on planes to ensure their compliance, putting them in contact with many asbestos materials. 

Although asbestos was used to prevent fire-related accidents in flight, it has caused significant health issues for Air Force veterans. 

Marines Occupations At Risk for Asbestos Exposure

Marines were often exposed to asbestos through their close ties with the Navy. A few occupations with a higher risk for asbestos exposure include the following:

• Marines stationed on Naval ships: Because of poor ventilation and the widespread use of asbestos on Naval ships, any Marine deployed on a naval vessel is at risk. 
• Mechanics: Vehicle and aircraft mechanics may have been exposed to asbestos daily because it was a commonly used engine, brake, and gasket material. 

If you were exposed to asbestos during your time in the Marine Corps, a skilled attorney can help you pursue justice for your losses. 

Contact an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney at The Williams Law Firm, P.C.

If you served in the military and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you deserve the utmost care and support. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we understand the unique challenges faced by veterans exposed to asbestos during their service. Our lead attorney, Joe Williams, is committed to serving those who served our country and will work tirelessly to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free consultation today by calling (855) 575-6376 or completing our contact form.

Legally Reviewed by

Joseph P. Williams
Renowned Mesothelioma Attorney

February 14, 2025

As the founding partner of Williams Law Firm, Joseph P. Williams has dedicated over 30 years to representing mesothelioma victims and their families. His firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for those affected by asbestos exposure, offering personalized, aggressive legal advocacy. Based in New York, Williams Law Firm provides free consultations and handles cases nationwide.