Those who worked or served on U.S. Navy ships in the 20th century were likely exposed to asbestos, and USS Benham servicemen are no different. The USS Benham (DD-397) served the U.S. Navy honorably during World War II. The ship earned five battle stars before meeting a tragic, though heroic end at the Battle of…
Asbestos is the commercial term for a group of fibrous natural minerals that have been used for many years in the manufacturing sector. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), asbestos exposure contributes to the development of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. If you live in a home with or have otherwise been…
What is the link between the USS Boxer and asbestos? Like all other ships built during World War II, the USS Boxer was constructed using asbestos-containing components. The U.S. Navy stockpiled asbestos during WWII to use in shipbuilding and repair. The naturally occurring material was valued for its resistance to heat, water, fire, and corrosion….
The USS Hornet (CV-12) is an Essex-class aircraft carrier that served in World War II and Vietnam. The ship also participated in the Apollo Missions, recovering astronauts after their ocean landings. The carrier is now the centerpiece of the USS Hornet Sea, Air, and Space Museum in Alameda, California. Despite a long legacy of proud…
In the 20th century, U.S. Navy personnel didn’t think about the asbestos on the USS Benson. But like most of the ships on the seas at the time, the Benson was made with asbestos-containing parts. We now know that exposure to asbestos particles can have deadly consequences. Anyone exposed to asbestos could be diagnosed with…