USS John F. Kennedy Asbestos Exposure

The USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), an iconic aircraft carrier commissioned in 1968, served the United States Navy proudly for nearly 40 years. Unfortunately, like many naval vessels of its era, this ship contained extensive amounts of asbestos throughout its construction, putting thousands of Navy veterans at risk for developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. If you served aboard the USS John F. Kennedy and have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness like mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, or lost wages.

At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we have successfully represented numerous veterans who were exposed to asbestos while serving aboard naval vessels like the USS John F. Kennedy. Our team, led by founding partner Joseph P. Williams, has never lost a mesothelioma case. We fight for you with the same dedication you showed when serving our country. As a firm practicing in both New York and Texas, we have the resources and reach to support veterans nationwide.

Asbestos Use on the USS John F. Kennedy

The USS John F. Kennedy, nicknamed “Big John,” was constructed during a time when asbestos was widely used throughout naval vessels for its heat resistance, durability, and fireproofing properties. Naval archive records, which Attorney Williams meticulously reviews for each case, include a complete list of equipment from the ship and document the extensive use of asbestos.

Where Was Asbestos Found on the USS John F. Kennedy?

Asbestos materials were integrated throughout the aircraft carrier’s structure and systems. According to the National Cancer Institute, Navy veterans have some of the highest rates of mesothelioma diagnoses due to extensive asbestos exposure aboard ships. Specific locations where the harmful mineral could be found included:

Engine rooms and boiler rooms, where asbestos insulation wrapped pipes, boilers, and turbines
Sleeping quarters, where asbestos insulation was used in the walls and ceilings
Mess halls and common areas, which contained asbestos in the flooring and ceiling materials
Navigation rooms, which had asbestos insulation in the walls and around electrical components

The confined spaces of naval vessels made exposure particularly dangerous, as poor ventilation allowed asbestos fibers to remain airborne and concentrated for extended periods. When sailors conducted repairs or maintenance work, they often disturbed asbestos materials, releasing the harmful fibers into the air.

Who Was at Risk for Asbestos Exposure?

While certain naval occupations faced higher risks, virtually anyone who served aboard the USS John F. Kennedy may have been exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos fibers. Those at highest risk included:

Boiler technicians and machinists who worked directly with asbestos-insulated equipment
Pipefitters, welders, and electricians who frequently disturbed asbestos materials during repairs
Shipyard workers who performed maintenance during the vessel’s overhauls and retrofits
Sailors stationed in poorly ventilated areas where asbestos fibers were concentrated

Even routine activities like sleeping in quarters with damaged asbestos insulation or eating in mess halls with deteriorating asbestos ceiling tiles could have resulted in harmful exposure. If you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos while serving on the USS John F. Kennedy, you have the right to pursue justice by filing a claim today.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Asbestos-Related Diseases

Asbestos exposure can lead to several serious health conditions, with mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, being among the most severe. What makes these diseases particularly troubling is the long latency period. This means that some symptoms may take up to thirty years after exposure to develop. Common symptoms of asbestos-related diseases include the following:

Shortness of breath and persistent cough
Chest pain or tightness
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Difficulty swallowing

If you experience these symptoms and served aboard the USS John F. Kennedy, it’s crucial to inform your doctor about your potential asbestos exposure history. Early detection through specialized testing can significantly improve treatment outcomes. If you have suffered due to asbestos exposure, Attorney Joe Williams is here to help you fight for justice by building a strong asbestos exposure claim on your behalf.

Damages You May Recover from Asbestos Exposure

Veterans suffering from asbestos-related diseases may be eligible to recover various types of damages by filing a claim. These compensatory damages aim to make victims whole again financially after suffering from a preventable illness. Potential recoverable damages include the following:

Medical expenses: Coverage for all past and ongoing treatment costs, including diagnostic tests, surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, medications, and hospital stays
Future medical costs: Estimated expenses for continued care and treatment
Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work during treatment
Reduced earning capacity: Payment for diminished ability to earn income in the future
Home healthcare costs: Expenses for in-home medical assistance or modifications to your home

Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and discomfort
Emotional distress: Payment for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and fear
Loss of enjoyment of life: Damages for inability to participate in hobbies, activities, and experiences you once enjoyed
Loss of consortium: Compensation for the impact on your relationship with your spouse

To ensure you are able to recover the best possible amount in compensation for your claim, contact our trusted legal team led by Attorney Joe Williams.

How The Williams Law Firm Can Help

At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we understand the devastating impact an asbestos-related diagnosis can have on you and your family. For over 30 years, we have dedicated ourselves to fighting for justice for veterans exposed to asbestos during their honorable service. We have never lost a mesothelioma case and approach each client’s situation with the personalized attention and dedication it deserves.

Our founding partner, Joseph P. Williams, will personally meet with you in your home to discuss your case and options. With his extensive experience in asbestos litigation and dedicated knowledge of naval vessels, including access to and understanding of naval archive records, Attorney Williams provides representation that gets results. We handle your case as our cause, not just another file on our desk. For a free consultation about your USS John F. Kennedy asbestos exposure case, call us at (855) 575-6376 or visit our contact form.