Asbestos Disposed of in Iraq Burn Pits Exposing Soldiers and Contractor Employees

More horror stories are now emerging from those who have been exposed to toxic dust and fumes overseas. Returning shoulders now reveal they have been exposed to asbestos and other toxic substances. Exposures occurred when personnel were instructed to improperly dispose of hazardous substances in massive burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen and is causally associate with diseases such ass asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare and incurable form of cancer.

Texas’s 72nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, were among those who were stationed in Iraq. “[The ash] hovers over like a blanket,” said Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Ethier. “After it rains, you’ll get puddles of stuff. It’s like a yellowish, brackish color. It looks metallic. It’s just disgusting.” Reportedly “a human arm, other body parts, batteries, tires, asbestos and a variety of toxics into burn pits.” 

Lawsuits have been filed against US troops and civilians who have been exposed at US bases. There are now 43 separate lawsuits that have been filed. Well known contractors including Haliburton Company, HBR, Inc., Kellog, Brown & Root Services, Inc., and Kellog, Brown & Root LLC are potential defendants in the litigation.

Click here to read more about the chemical exposures in Iraq.

Click here to read more about the Iraq worksite chemical exposure cancer claims.