The Department of Veterans Affairs states that there are over 25 million persons that have previously served in the U.S. military. During their military career, millions of the same veterans were repeatedly exposed to caustic asbestos dust and asbestos based products. Until the 1970's, asbestos was was heavily used by all branches of the armed forces, and was highly revered for its insulation and fireproofing properties. At one point asbestos was highly prized, so much so that it was ordered by the military to be used in over 300 products before finally discontinuing use of the material.

According to a recent study, over 30 percent of Americans afflicted with mesothelioma (a rare cancer that plagues the internal lining of the abdomen, lungs, and heart) are veterans that were consistantly exposed to asbestos and asbestos products during their military service. Veterans who served between 1940 and 1970 have the greatest risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses and diseases. Additionally, Navy personnel and shipyard workers have the greatest potential of developing a an asbestos exposure related diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Every Navy shipyard and ship that was built prior to the 70's was rife with various asbestos containing products. These asbestos based products were used extensively in boiler and engine rooms as well as most areas below the deck, typically for fire prevention. Those that worked in compartments below the deck had the highest exposure to asbestos based materials, but all sailors are at risk as the deadly substance was also used in mess halls, sleeping quarters, and navigation rooms. Products like gaskets, brakes, valves, adhesives, cement and floor and pipe coverings all of which contained asbestos. In fact, there was practically no part of a Navy ship that was free from asbestos between the 1930s and mid 1970s, thus making ship builders, shipyard workers and Navy veterans the highest at risk for contracting asbestos related cancer.