The fire suppressant AFFF contains between 50% and 98% PFAS, which makes it extremely detrimental to the environment, and also to the health of those who come in contact with it. Out of the PFAS group, there are two chemicals that have a strong connection with cancer – PFOS and PFOA. Nevertheless, exposure to any of the chemicals from this class is dangerous and can result in life-threatening diseases. At Willow Grove NASJRB, the current level of these hazardous agents is 150,479 ppt, which exceeds the safe exposure limit by nearly 2,150 times.
What toxic agents are lurking on Willow Grove NASJRB?
While PFAS are the only contaminants of concern polluting the environment of the military base, other toxic agents were present at Willow Grove NASJRB during the last century. The facility was added to the Superfund program's National Priorities List in 1995, which means the Environmental Protection Agency has been performing cleanup activities there. Other harmful substances found lurking at Willow Grove NASJRB include volatile organic compounds and heavy metals.
There are currently four Operable Units under investigation, which may require a remedy at the site. This includes a PFAS Operable Unit for both the NASJRB/WG and Biddle ANGB. The U.S. Navy has the lead role in cleaning up the NASJRB/WG portion of the site, and the U.S. Air National Guard is responsible for cleaning up the Biddle ANGB portion of the site. The Environmental Protection Agency conducts five-year reviews for remedies implemented.
What diseases can toxic exposure at Willow Grove NASJRB cause?
Veterans and family members who intend to file a military base toxic exposure claim should know that only certain diagnoses can make them eligible. This is because a strong connection must exist between their illness and toxic exposure. Even if they have a qualifying disease, they might still not be entitled to compensation, as there are other requirements they have to meet. These are the diagnoses that might deem veterans and family members eligible to file a claim if they were stationed at this military base for at least 1 cumulative year:
If you lived at Willow Grove NASJRB and now struggle with one of these diseases, we encourage you to contact our law firm, as we have been pursuing compensation for toxic exposure victims since 1990. The legal process is simple to navigate, as we know that veterans often struggle with terrible diseases. Our skilled attorneys will review your case to determine whether you are eligible to file a claim, and they can also help veterans file a VA claim for disability compensation.
