In the early 1980s, the U.S. government identified soil and groundwater contaminated with radioactive elements and other toxins at Naval Air Station Alameda in California. Since then, Alameda radiation and toxins have been the focus of ongoing environmental cleanup efforts. Past exposure to toxic substances at the base may increase your risk of developing serious health conditions, including cancer. If you served at the base, it’s important to learn about your options for VA disability benefits.
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In this article about NAS Alameda radiation and toxins exposure:
NAS Alameda background
Naval Air Station (NAS) Alameda officially opened in 1940 on 2,806 acres of Alameda Island in the San Francisco Bay area of California. During World War II, the base was a hub for aircraft repair, maintenance, and deployment and remained active during the Cold War. However, its use began to decline, and the government closed the base in 1997.
In June 2013, the Navy gave 1,379 acres of the former naval base to the city of Alameda. The local government is now developing the land into a community called Alameda Point.
NAS Alameda radiation and toxins
Officials discovered contamination in the soil and groundwater at NAS Alameda in the 1980s during environmental assessments conducted by the Navy and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA declared it a Superfund site in 1999, marking it as one of the most contaminated places in the country and focusing funds and efforts on cleanup.
NAS Alameda radiation
One of the most concerning toxins found was radiation, which was detected in the waste, soil, and some of the structures and buildings. Radiation at NAS Alameda likely resulted from the storage, testing, and transport of nuclear weapons on base.
Prolonged radiation exposure can lead to multiple health issues, including cancer.
Alameda naval base water contamination
Varying levels of other contaminants were also found in the groundwater and surface water on base, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
PFAS, sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic chemicals that don’t break down easily in the environment. They’re found in waterproof clothing, fire extinguisher foam, paint, and cleaning supplies, among other things. Exposure to and buildup of these chemicals can result in health problems such as reproductive issues, developmental delays in children, and an increased risk of some cancers.
Other contaminants of concern detected in the soil and water at NAS Alameda include:
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs)
- Pesticides
- Heavy metals such as arsenic, copper, and nickel
- Cyanide
All of these substances, if exposed to at high levels or for prolonged periods of time, can lead to adverse health effects.
You can see a full list of specific toxins found on base here. The levels of PFAS detected on the base can be found by locating Alameda Naval Base on this map and clicking on the corresponding marker.
Alameda radiation and toxins disability claims
You may be eligible for VA disability benefits if you served at NAS Alameda and are experiencing health issues that are linked to toxic exposure at the base.
The VA doesn’t presume any specific health conditions associated with service at the base. However, this does not mean you can’t get the disability compensation you deserve. Any veteran who believes their condition is tied to Alameda Naval Base contamination may still be eligible to receive VA disability benefits if they are able to service connect their condition.
To establish a service connection, you must provide a medical nexus, or a professional medical opinion that links your condition to your military service. Additional supporting evidence including your military records and lay statements can also help your claim and prove service connection.
Because exposure-related claims can be challenging to prove, you may want to hire an accredited VA disability lawyer to help strengthen and build your case.
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How Woods & Woods can help
Woods & Woods has been fighting for people with injuries and disabilities since 1985. Our team of accredited VA disability lawyers, case managers, legal analysts, and intake specialists know the ins and outs of the VA so you don’t have to do all the hard work. Call us today for your free and confidential case evaluation.
Talk to Us About Your Claim:
(812) 426-7200
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes, there are concerns about NAS Alameda radiation and toxins. Radiation was detected in the waste, soil, and some of the base’s structures and buildings. The Navy has undertaken extensive cleanup efforts to address these concerns, but this cleanup process is still ongoing.
Yes, if you were stationed at Alameda Naval Air Station and believe you have a health condition resulting from toxins you were exposed to on base, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits.
Neil Woods
Neil Woods is a VA disability attorney and the owner and president of Woods & Woods. He received his law degree from Western Michigan University.
