There’s no doubt that Camp Lejeune has become a big buzzword these days. One can’t turn on a radio, laptop, or TV these days without hearing or seeing something about the infamous military base.
More and more service members stationed at Camp Lejeune step forward in pursuit of justice. Victims have experienced severe health problems due to the water contamination on the base and are now seeking compensation to rebuild their lives.
The Undisputed Facts of Camp Lejeune
You might wonder what exactly happened at Camp Lejeune, and why are so many former marines talking about whether or not they should get a Camp Lejeune lawsuit lawyer. At the moment, these are the undisputed facts:
For a period of 30 years (1957-1987), the water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated, reflecting high levels of toxins. This contaminated water was used by marine families for everything from drinking to cooking and bathing.
The military was made aware that solvents were not being disposed of properly and were making it into the water system. Yet they continued to dump toxic chemicals. At one point during the 80s, the wells on the base were shut down before being activated again in complete disregard of the law.
A 1982 study revealed that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were found in Camp Lejeune’s drinking water. In the past, VOCs have been responsible for causing birth defects and health problems for mothers and babies.
Camp Lejeune Stories: It’s About Justice
Water contamination cases can be difficult to prove. One of the sad realities is that many of the victims may no longer be alive due to the injuries they have sustained. Unless the families of those who have succumbed to cancer and various other ailments give them a voice, no one will know of the true impact brought by the toxic water.
In the case of Camp Lejeune survivors, some of the symptoms reported have included everything from rashes to neuropathy. A quick internet search of Camp Lejeune’s symptoms reveals a great deal about the reality these victims face every day:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Non-Hodgkins lymphoma
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Bladder cancer
- Adult leukemia
- Aplastic anemia
How the Water Crisis at Camp Lejeune Ties Into Life in 2022
Over the past decade or so, stories of water contamination have been grabbing headlines for a reason. They speak to America’s failing infrastructure as well as how marginalized communities are treated differently when it comes to receiving access to the bare necessities of life.
In 2014, America was horrified by the stories coming out of Flint, Michigan. The lead-contaminated water impacted the community in a number of terrifying ways. Just this year, another water crisis hit Jackson, Mississippi, inflicting massive damage.
What Makes the Situation at Camp Lejeune so Concerning
In the United States, politicians always like to give off the impression that they support military members and their families. However, the situation at Camp Lejeune would indicate otherwise.
The fact that the water contamination occurred over three decades—and was covered up at one point when the wells were opened back up again—indicates a severe lack of respect for service members and their families.
This situation is particularly concerning because it involves a lack of respect for the marines and families involved—and it’s yet another water contamination crisis hitting the United States.
Is There Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims?
Although it would appear that some victims will be compensated, at this point it is impossible to know just how many people were affected by the solvents that leaked into the water at Camp Lejeune. Those who are being compensated would likely have happily traded the money received for good health instead.
Regardless, class action lawsuits like this must be brought to the forefront. The only way that society will change is if those in power become aware that they will eventually be held responsible for the consequences of their negligent actions.
