News Summary
The USS Wiltsie, a Gearing-class destroyer, served valiantly in major conflicts but harbors a tragic history of asbestos exposure that endangers the health of its sailors. Asbestos materials used in its construction led to debilitating illnesses among veterans, prompting legal action and support efforts. The legacy of the Wiltsie serves as a cautionary tale about industrial negligence and the need for awareness regarding asbestos-related health risks.
Exposure Risks for Sailors of the USS Wiltsie: A Hidden Tragedy
In the annals of naval history, few vessels echo the distinguished service record of the USS Wiltsie (DD-716). This Gearing-class destroyer, commissioned in January 1946, undertook numerous deployments across the Pacific, grappling with conflicts that reshaped world dynamics. However, beneath its military accolades lies a grim reality—the ship’s construction utilized extensive quantities of asbestos and asbestos-based materials, exposing the brave sailors who served aboard it to debilitating health hazards, including mesothelioma and asbestosis.
A Legacy Built on Asbestos
Built at the Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in 1945, the USS Wiltsie represented one of the last destroyers commissioned in the post-World War II era. Despite the vessel’s operational advancements over its predecessors, standard shipbuilding practices at the time inexplicably included the toxic material asbestos, favored for its heat resistance and fireproofing properties, crucial for combat vessels.
As sailors carried out their missions over the years, they unknowingly inhaled and ingested asbestos fibers released during routine maintenance and combat operations. The ship featured asbestos in a myriad of applications—from boiler insulation to piping systems—thus putting the health of countless crew members in jeopardy.
Peak of Rigorous Service
The USS Wiltsie’s operational life spanned three decades, distinguished by deployments in critical theatres such as the Korean and Vietnam wars. Churning through the waters, this 390-foot destroyer was integral in providing naval fire support and engaging in anti-submarine warfare. However, the same environment that enabled military success turned into a scene of potential health disasters for its crew.
During the tumultuous years of the Korean War, the Wiltsie was a pivotal participant in several key operations, including the Inchon landing. Later, in the Vietnam conflict, it played protective roles for downed pilots and provided artillery support against hostile forces. Yet, even as bullets flew and missions unfolded, sailors were unwittingly battling a greater threat—the silent, microscopic fibers of asbestos pervading their workspace.
The Aftermath: Health Complications and Legal Recourse
Sailors like William Wangen, who served aboard the USS Wiltsie, faced unimaginable struggles decades after their service. Diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2007, Wangen joined the ranks of veterans seeking justice and compensation for the grievous health costs incurred from exposure to asbestos. For many veterans like him, asbestos-related illnesses pose debilitating challenges that often lead to a fight against the very system they once served.
Fortunately, there exist avenues to attain justice and financial compensation for veterans suffering from these induced ailments. The Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes mesothelioma as a fully disabling condition, allowing many affected veterans to access comprehensive medical coverage and maximum disability compensation rates. Beyond VA benefits, legal avenues against the manufacturers of asbestos materials offer additional pathways to seek damages.
Support for Affected Veterans
Veterans who served aboard the USS Wiltsie or those involved in its construction are not alone in their struggles. Numerous support networks exist that provide assistance in navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding asbestos-related claims. Expert asbestos attorneys are available to guide these veterans through documentation processes and help identify responsible parties based on service timelines.
Additionally, trust funds set up by former asbestos manufacturers offer alternative compensation options for those affected by asbestos exposure. This can be appealing for veterans who prefer not to engage in lengthy legal battles.
A Cautionary Tale
The USS Wiltsie’s history is one intertwined with both valor and tragedy. While it sailed through essential military operations, the vessel represents a cautionary tale about the hazards of asbestos exposure. The legacy of those who served aboard it underscores the critical need for awareness and proactive measures against the ramifications of industrial negligence.
As the issue of asbestos-related illnesses persists, the fight for accountability and compensation remains crucial for veterans and their families. It serves as a reminder that behind the battles fought on foreign shores, another silent battle continues—the struggle for health, justice, and recognition of those who bravely served.
