USS Constellation Asbestos Exposure

Hull Number: CV-64
Type: Aircraft Carrier
Class: Kitty Hawk
Built: Brooklyn, NY

About USS Constellation

The USS Constellation is a Kitty Hawk-class Aircraft Carrier commissioned by the U.S. Navy in October 1961. It was built by the New York Navy Yard, and was the final Aircraft Carrier built at a shipyard other than the Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Company.

The only ship ever authorized to display its designation numbers in red, white, and blue, the Constellation was also known as one of the fastest ships in the fleet. The vessel was proclaimed “America’s Flagship” by Ronald Reagan in 1981, and remained in active duty until 2003.

Asbestos Exposure Case in USS Constellation

Until the 1970’s, asbestos was a common material used aboard U.S. Navy ships. Asbestos could be found in much of the equipment on the USS Constellation, including boilers, turbines, electrical components, valves, and pumps. Materials such as gaskets and packing were also often made of asbestos.

The boiler and engine spaces held an especially high concentration of asbestos materials, putting veterans who worked in those areas at an increased risk of exposure. The companies who produced these asbestos products were typically aware of the dangers asbestos posed, but did not warn workers of these dangers.

Many navy veterans developed mesothelioma or lung cancer because they were not made aware of the proper precautions needed for working with asbestos.

Veterans with mesothelioma who served on the USS Constellation were most likely exposed in the line of duty. Victims of asbestos have the right to pursue compensation, and will not affect their VA benefits by taking legal action. Settlements can cover the overwhelming cost of medical care and provide additional sums for the pain and suffering mesothelioma can cause.

The law limits the time victims can file a lawsuit, so it is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. At the law firm of Belluck & Fox, LLP, our attorneys have years of experience with mesothelioma and lung cancer cases, and are experts at bringing asbestos companies to justice. Contact our office by calling 1-877-637-6843 (1-877-637-6843) or online through our contact form. Live Chat is also available for your convenience.