For decades, a hidden danger lurked beneath the surface of Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina. From 1953 to 1987, the base's drinking water supply was contaminated with harmful chemicals,including trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE). These toxins, linked to various serious health problems, exposed thousands of service members, civilians, and their families to a silent threat.
A Legacy of Harm
The source of the contamination stemmed from leaking underground storage tanks and industrial waste disposal practices. Despite early warnings about potential water quality issues, it took years for officials to take decisive action. This prolonged exposure had devastating consequences for those who lived, worked, or were stationed at Camp Lejeune during this period.
Health Risks Associated with Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Studies have linked exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to an increased risk of various health problems, including:
- Cancers, such as leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and various childhood cancers
- Birth defects
- Miscarriages
- Kidney disease
- Liver damage
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act: A Path to Justice
In August 2022, a significant step towards justice was taken with the passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA). This historic legislation allows veterans, civilians, and their family members who were exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to file a claim in federal court for the health problems they have suffered.
The CLJA offers a path to justice by:
- Providing compensation for medical expenses and other damages: This can help alleviate the financial burden associated with illnesses linked to the contaminated water.
- Acknowledging the harm caused: The CLJA represents a formal recognition of the government's failings and the impact on those affected.
- Holding the government accountable: The ability to file claims creates a legal mechanism for holding the government responsible for the consequences of the water contamination.
Ponder Legal Group: Helping You Seek Justice
At Ponder Legal Group, we understand the profound impact the Camp Lejeune water contamination has had on countless lives. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping veterans, civilians, and families navigate the legal process under the CLJA and fight for the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one was exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune and have experienced health problems, contact us today for a free consultation. We can review your situation, explain your eligibility under the CLJA, and guide you through the legal process.
Together, we can help ensure justice for those affected by this environmental disaster.
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