The Veterans Asbestos Alliance

Founded in 1800, the Boston Naval Shipyard—also known as the Charlestown Navy Yard—was one of the nation’s oldest and most historically significant naval facilities. It played a critical role in every major American conflict through the 20th century.

During World War II, the yard was instrumental in building and repairing dozens of destroyers, cruisers, and escort vessels. It employed more than 50,000 workers at its wartime peak,

The Brooklyn Navy Yard, established in 1801, became one of the most critical shipbuilding facilities in the U.S. during the 19th and 20th centuries. At its peak during World War II, the yard employed over 70,000 workers, constructing legendary vessels such as the USS Iowa, USS Missouri, and various aircraft carriers, cruisers, and destroyers. It was a powerhouse of American naval industry and innovation, known for launching ships in record time.

Operating from 1901 to 1996, Charleston Naval Shipyard built and repaired destroyers, submarines, and auxiliary ships. It became a key hub during WWII and continued supporting U.S. Navy operations throughout the Cold War and into the Vietnam era. 

Acquired by the Navy in 1940, Hunters Point quickly became one of the most active ship repair yards on the West Coast during WWII. It specialized in overhauls for aircraft carriers and battleships and later housed the Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory. 

Opened in the early 1940s, Long Beach was vital for Pacific Fleet repair operations during WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. It specialized in overhauls and conversions of cruisers and carriers.

Established in 1854, Mare Island was the first U.S. Navy base on the West Coast and played a critical role in every major conflict through the Cold War. It built over 500 vessels and repaired submarines, destroyers, and auxiliary ships. At its peak during WWII, over 40,000 workers were employed.

Established in 1767 (and acquired by the U.S. Navy in 1801), Norfolk is one of the oldest and largest Navy shipyards still in operation. It constructed hundreds of vessels and played a vital role in every major American conflict, from the Civil War to the present day. 

Founded in 1801, this was one of the Navy's largest shipbuilders, producing over 50 ships during WWII alone and repairing hundreds more during the Cold War. It was a major employment center, with more than 40,000 workers at its peak. 

Established in 1800, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the oldest continuously operating U.S. Navy shipyard. It has specialized for over a century in the construction, overhaul, and refueling of Navy submarines. Portsmouth played a major role during World War II, producing more than 70 submarines to support the war effort. The yard remained essential throughout the Cold War, modernizing the U.S. submarine fleet and maintaining fast-attack and ballistic missile subs.

Established in 1891 and still active, Puget Sound is a major overhaul and maintenance site for nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers. It played a huge role in refitting ships during WWII and remains essential for modern fleet readiness. 

Since its commissioning in 2013, USS Anchorage supports amphibious operations and has been involved in various missions, including the recovery of NASA's Orion spacecraft during a test flight in 2014.

Commissioned in 1949, named after Medal of Honor recipient John Basilone, the ship served in the Korean War and Cold War operations.

Commissioned in 1964, USS Belknap was a guided-missile cruiser that played a key role in Cold War naval operations. In 1975, it collided with the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy, causing a major fire. It was later repaired and continued service until its decommissioning in 1995.

The USS Bon Homme Richard (CV/CVA-31) was an Essex-class aircraft carrier that served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1971. Commissioned during World War II, she played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, supporting air strikes against Japanese forces. After the war, she was modernized and later saw extensive action in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Like many Navy vessels of her era, the USS Bon Homme Richard was constructed with asbestos-containing materials, putting service members at risk of exposure. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos in engine rooms, boiler spaces, and other high-risk areas.

The USS Boxer (CV/CVA/LHD-21) has been the name of multiple ships in the U.S. Navy, with the most notable being the Essex-class aircraft carrier (CV-21) that served from 1945 to 1971. Commissioned too late for World War II, the Boxer played a crucial role in the Korean War, providing air support for ground operations. The carrier also supported missions during the Vietnam War before being decommissioned. Like many Navy vessels built during the mid-20th century, the USS Boxer contained asbestos in its insulation, pipes, and engine rooms, posing a health risk to those who served aboard. Veterans who were exposed to asbestos on the Boxer may be at risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.

The USS Cacapon (AO-52) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler that served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1973. Commissioned during World War II, the Cacapon provided vital fuel and logistical support to naval operations in the Pacific. The ship continued to serve through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, supplying fuel to warships at sea. Like many Navy vessels built in the mid-20th century, the USS Cacapon was constructed with asbestos-containing materials, especially in its boiler rooms, engine spaces, and piping insulation. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos, putting them at risk for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.

Commissioned in 1960, USS Charles F. Adams was the lead ship of her class, serving as one of the first guided missile destroyers designed for anti-air warfare. She played an active role during the Cold War and was decommissioned in 1990.

The USS Chipola (AO-63) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler that served the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1972. Commissioned during World War II, the Chipola played a crucial role in refueling naval vessels at sea, ensuring fleet mobility and extended operations. The ship continued its service through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, supporting combat and logistical missions. Like many Navy ships of its era, the USS Chipola was built with asbestos-containing materials, particularly in engine rooms, boiler spaces, and pipe insulation. Veterans who served aboard may have faced asbestos exposure, increasing the risk of mesothelioma and other related illnesses.

The USS Cleveland name has been carried by multiple U.S. Navy ships, most notably the USS Cleveland (CL-55), a Cleveland-class light cruiser that served during World War II, and the USS Cleveland (LPD-7), an Austin-class amphibious transport dock that served from 1967 to 2011. The WWII-era USS Cleveland played a key role in Pacific operations, providing gunfire support and engaging enemy forces. The later USS Cleveland (LPD-7) was heavily involved in amphibious operations, humanitarian missions, and military deployments around the world. Like many Navy vessels of their time, both versions of the USS Cleveland contained asbestos in critical areas such as engine rooms, insulation, and piping. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos, increasing the risk of mesothelioma and other health conditions.

The USS Cone (DD-866) was a Gearing-class destroyer that served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1973. Commissioned at the end of World War II, the Cone played a significant role in Cold War naval operations, including deployments during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Designed for anti-submarine warfare and fleet protection, the destroyer operated in various theaters worldwide. Like many Navy vessels built during the mid-20th century, the USS Cone contained asbestos in insulation, piping, and engine room components. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos, increasing the risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.

The USS Constellation (CV-64) was a Kitty Hawk-class aircraft carrier that served in the U.S. Navy from 1961 to 2003. Nicknamed 'Connie,' the carrier played a vital role in military operations during the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, and various other deployments throughout its service. As one of the Navy’s premier carriers during the Cold War, Constellation was home to thousands of sailors and aviators. Like many ships of its era, the USS Constellation was built with asbestos-containing materials, particularly in engine rooms, boiler spaces, and insulation. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos, putting them at risk for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

The USS Coontz (DDG-40), originally commissioned as DLG-9, was a Farragut-class guided-missile destroyer leader that served in the U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1989. Designed for anti-air and anti-submarine warfare, the Coontz played a key role in Cold War naval operations, participating in fleet exercises, NATO operations, and deployments around the world. Like many Navy ships built during the mid-20th century, the USS Coontz contained asbestos in insulation, piping, and engine room components. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos, increasing the risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.

The USS Coral Sea (CV-43) was a Midway-class aircraft carrier that served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1990. Nicknamed 'Ageless Warrior,' the carrier played a significant role in Cold War operations, the Vietnam War, and various military exercises throughout its decades of service. As a major fleet asset, the Coral Sea launched air missions and provided critical support for U.S. military efforts worldwide. Like many Navy vessels of its era, the USS Coral Sea was built with asbestos-containing materials, particularly in engine rooms, boiler spaces, and insulation. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos, increasing the risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

The USS Dixie (AD-14) was a Dixie-class destroyer tender that served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1982. Commissioned before World War II, the Dixie provided essential repair and maintenance services to destroyers and other naval vessels throughout the war, as well as during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. As a support ship, the Dixie played a crucial role in keeping the fleet operational during wartime and peacetime deployments. Like many Navy ships built in the mid-20th century, the USS Dixie was constructed with asbestos-containing materials, particularly in its insulation, piping, and boiler rooms. Veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos, increasing their risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

The USS Duluth (LPD-6) was an Austin-class amphibious transport dock that served in the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 2005. Designed to support amphibious operations, the Duluth transported Marines, equipment, and landing craft for missions around the world. It played a role in military engagements, peacekeeping operations, and humanitarian missions. Like many ships built in the mid-20th century, the USS Duluth contained asbestos in insulation and engine components, putting veterans at risk of exposure.

Commissioned in 1945, the USS Dyess was a Gearing-class destroyer that served with distinction during the final months of World War II and into the Cold War. The ship participated in various NATO exercises and patrolled extensively in the Mediterranean as part of the U.S. Sixth Fleet. Known for its speed and versatility, USS Dyess helped project American naval power across the globe during a critical era. It was decommissioned in 1970 and later transferred to Greece.

The USS Enterprise (CVN-65), the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, served in the U.S. Navy from 1961 to 2017. Known as 'Big E,' it participated in major conflicts including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, and Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. With its massive size and cutting-edge technology, Enterprise remained a cornerstone of naval operations for over 50 years. However, like many ships of its era, it contained asbestos in various materials, posing a risk to those who served aboard.

The USS Essex (LHD-2) is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship commissioned in 1992 and still active today. Designed to deploy Marines and their equipment via helicopters and landing craft, the Essex has been involved in combat operations and humanitarian missions worldwide. Unlike older ships, modern vessels like the Essex were built with stricter safety regulations, reducing the presence of asbestos that was common in mid-20th century naval construction.

The USS Forrestal (CVA-59) was the first supercarrier in the U.S. Navy, commissioned in 1955 and serving until 1993. It played a vital role in Cold War naval operations, training missions, and deployments worldwide. The carrier is most remembered for a devastating fire in 1967 during the Vietnam War, which resulted in tragic losses. Built in an era when asbestos was widely used in ship construction, the USS Forrestal posed exposure risks to many of its crew members.

The USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship commissioned in 1945 and decommissioned in 1971. It was used to transport and deploy amphibious forces, playing a role in post-World War II operations, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. As with many mid-century naval vessels, asbestos was used throughout the ship, particularly in engine rooms and insulation, putting sailors at risk of exposure.

The USS Fort Snelling (LSD-30) was a Thomaston-class dock landing ship commissioned in 1954 and decommissioned in 1980. It was built to support amphibious landings, carrying troops, equipment, and landing craft to coastal areas. Fort Snelling participated in Cold War-era missions and fleet exercises. Like other ships of its time, it contained asbestos in critical systems, posing health risks to service members who worked in engine rooms and mechanical areas.

The USS Harlan County (LST-1196) was a Newport-class tank landing ship commissioned in 1971 and decommissioned in 1994. Designed to transport tanks, vehicles, and troops for amphibious operations, the ship participated in military exercises and peacekeeping efforts worldwide. While newer than many asbestos-laden ships, some materials used aboard the USS Harlan County may have still contained asbestos, putting crew members at potential risk of exposure.

The USS Harpers Ferry (LSD-49) is the lead ship of the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ships, commissioned in 1995 and still in active service. Designed to transport and launch amphibious vehicles and troops, it has been an integral part of military operations and humanitarian missions. As a modern vessel, the USS Harpers Ferry was built under improved safety standards, significantly reducing the asbestos risks that were common in earlier Navy ships.

The USS Hermitage (LSD-34) was a Thomaston-class dock landing ship commissioned in 1956 and decommissioned in 1989. It supported amphibious landings by transporting Marines, vehicles, and equipment to shore. The Hermitage was involved in Cold War operations and fleet exercises throughout its service. Like many ships of its era, it was constructed with asbestos-containing materials in key areas, putting veterans at risk of asbestos-related illnesses.

The USS Higbee (DDG-123) is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer named in honor of Lenah Higbee, the first woman to receive the Navy Cross. Commissioned in 2024, this modern warship is equipped with advanced radar and missile defense systems. Unlike older Navy ships, the USS Higbee was built under stringent safety regulations, eliminating the asbestos exposure risks that were common in mid-20th-century vessels.

The USS Hornet (CV-12) was an Essex-class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1943, serving through World War II, the Cold War, and into the 1970s. The Hornet played a key role in the Pacific theater, launching air raids against enemy forces. It later recovered Apollo 11 astronauts after their historic moon landing in 1969. Like other carriers of its era, the USS Hornet was built with asbestos in boiler rooms, insulation, and piping, posing health risks to those who served aboard.

The USS Hunley (AS-31) was a submarine tender commissioned in 1962 and decommissioned in 1994. It was designed to provide maintenance, supplies, and support for ballistic missile submarines during the Cold War. Operating as a floating repair station, the Hunley played a crucial role in ensuring the readiness of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear deterrent force. Like many mid-20th century vessels, the USS Hunley contained asbestos in insulation, piping, and engine components, potentially exposing crew members to harmful fibers.

The USS Independence (CVL-22) was a light aircraft carrier that served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. As the lead ship of its class, Independence played a significant role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in major battles, air raids, and support operations. After the war, it was used in atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll before being scuttled. Like many WWII-era ships, the USS Independence contained asbestos throughout its structure, putting those who served aboard at risk of exposure.

The USS Independence (CV-62) was a Forrestal-class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1959 and decommissioned in 1998. Serving during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and Persian Gulf operations, Independence was a key asset in projecting U.S. naval power worldwide. As with other aircraft carriers of its era, asbestos was heavily used in insulation, machinery, and piping systems, posing health risks to sailors who worked aboard.

The USS Intrepid (CV-11) was an Essex-class aircraft carrier that served from 1943 to 1974. A decorated WWII veteran, Intrepid participated in key battles in the Pacific, later serving in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The ship also played a role in recovering NASA astronauts from space missions. Now preserved as the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City, it serves as a historic landmark. Like many ships of its time, the USS Intrepid was built with asbestos-containing materials, exposing veterans to potential health risks.

The USS James E. Kyes (DD-787) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned in 1946 and decommissioned in 1979. It served in the Cold War, Korean War, and Vietnam War, performing escort duties, patrols, and naval gunfire support. Like other ships of its era, asbestos was commonly used in its insulation, engine spaces, and piping, putting sailors at risk of exposure.

The USS John P. Murtha (LPD-26) is a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock commissioned in 2016. Designed to transport Marines and their equipment for amphibious operations, it features modern technology for expeditionary warfare. Unlike older Navy vessels, the USS John P. Murtha was built with updated safety regulations, reducing asbestos exposure risks that were common in mid-20th century shipbuilding.

The USS John W. Thomason (DD-760) was a Sumner-class destroyer commissioned in 1945 and decommissioned in 1972. It saw service during the Korean War and Vietnam War, performing escort and bombardment missions. Built during an era when asbestos was widely used for insulation and fireproofing, veterans who served aboard may have been exposed to asbestos fibers in machinery spaces and other ship compartments.

The USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) was a Kitty Hawk-class aircraft carrier that served from 1961 to 2009. The carrier played a major role in U.S. naval operations, including deployments during the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. As one of the last conventionally powered aircraft carriers, Kitty Hawk contained asbestos in various components, particularly in engine rooms and insulation, posing health risks to those who served aboard.

The USS Macon (ZRS-5) was a rigid airship commissioned in 1933, designed for reconnaissance and fleet scouting. One of the U.S. Navy’s last operational airships, it was equipped with a small fleet of fighter planes housed within its structure. The Macon was lost in a storm off the California coast in 1935. While it predates the heavy use of asbestos in shipbuilding, its construction still included early insulating materials that may have contained asbestos-related compounds.

The USS Makin Island (LHD-8) is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship commissioned in 2009. Unlike earlier Wasp-class ships, Makin Island features a hybrid propulsion system, improving fuel efficiency. It supports Marine Corps amphibious operations and humanitarian missions worldwide. As a modern Navy vessel, it was built under improved safety standards, eliminating asbestos exposure risks that were common in older ships.

The USS Manatee (AO-58) was a Cimarron-class fleet replenishment oiler that served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1973. It provided essential fuel support to naval vessels during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Like many ships built in the mid-20th century, the USS Manatee contained asbestos insulation in its boiler rooms, engine spaces, and piping systems, potentially exposing sailors to hazardous materials.

The USS Mount Katmai (AE-16) was a Mount Hood-class ammunition ship commissioned in 1945 and decommissioned in 1973. It played a critical role in supplying munitions to naval forces during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Like many Navy vessels built in the mid-20th century, the USS Mount Katmai contained asbestos in insulation and other components, putting crew members at risk of exposure.

The USS Ozbourn (DD-846) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned in 1946 and decommissioned in 1973. Named in honor of Marine Corps Private Joseph W. Ozbourn, the ship served in the Korean War and the Vietnam War, performing escort, patrol, and bombardment missions. Asbestos was commonly used in destroyers of this era, particularly in boiler rooms and piping, exposing sailors to potential health risks.

The USS Pearl Harbor (LSD-52) is a Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship commissioned in 1998 and still active today. Designed to support amphibious operations, it carries Marines, vehicles, and landing craft for global deployments. As a modern vessel, the USS Pearl Harbor was built under strict safety regulations, reducing asbestos exposure risks compared to older Navy ships.

The USS Point Cruz (CVE-119) was a Commencement Bay-class escort carrier commissioned in 1945 and decommissioned in 1969. Originally serving in World War II, it was later reactivated for the Korean War, providing air support for ground operations. Like many mid-century carriers, the USS Point Cruz contained asbestos in its engine rooms, insulation, and other critical areas, potentially endangering those who served aboard.

The USS Portland (LPD-27) is a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock commissioned in 2017. It supports Marine Corps amphibious operations and carries advanced technology for modern warfare. As a newly built ship, the USS Portland adheres to strict safety standards, eliminating the asbestos hazards found in older Navy vessels.

The USS Prairie (AD-15) was a Dixie-class destroyer tender commissioned in 1940 and decommissioned in 1993. It provided repair and maintenance services to destroyers and other naval vessels throughout World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Like other mid-century support ships, the USS Prairie contained asbestos insulation, particularly in engineering spaces and repair areas, putting sailors at risk of exposure.

The USS Ranger (CV-61) was a Forrestal-class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1957 and decommissioned in 1993. It served during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and various military operations, providing air power and fleet support. Built during an era when asbestos was widely used in ship construction, the USS Ranger contained asbestos in boiler rooms, insulation, and other critical components, posing health risks to those who served aboard.

The USS Robison (DDG-12) was an Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned in 1961 and decommissioned in 1991. It played an important role in Cold War naval operations, providing air defense and escort duties. Like other destroyers of its time, the USS Robison was built with asbestos-containing materials in engine rooms, piping, and insulation, potentially exposing crew members to hazardous fibers.

The USS Rogers (DD-876) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned in 1945 and decommissioned in 1980. It served in multiple conflicts, including the Korean War and the Vietnam War, performing escort and anti-submarine warfare duties. Built in the mid-20th century, the USS Rogers contained asbestos in critical systems such as engine rooms and insulation, increasing the risk of asbestos exposure for sailors.