Asbestos Exposure on Ships:

USS INDEPENDENCE CVL 22 AIRCRAFT

The USS Independence was the fourth United States Navy aircraft carrier to bare the name. The USS Independence was the lead ship of her class, carrying the same name. Sponsored by Mrs. Rawleigh Warner, the USS Independence was constructed between the 1st of May 1941 and the 22nd of August 1942. The USS Independence was ready for active on the 14th of January 1943 and on that date has steamed through the Panama Canal to join the Pacific Fleet. During her active service, the USS Independence received eight battle stars, and was decommissioned on the 28th of August 1946. The ship was sunk during weapons testing in 1951. The ship did not carry any jet engine planes or helicopters because this kind of technology was not yet available until the day of her decommissioning. Here are some of her main characteristics:

  • Independence class light aircraft carrier
  • 14751 tons fully loaded
  • 623 feet in total length
  • Four boilers powering General Electric turbines producing over 100000 horse power were used for propulsion
  • Maximum speed of 31 knots
  • Maximum range of 13000 nautical miles at 15 knots
  • 1569 me and women served on board, including officers and aircraft personnel
  • The ship usually carried up to 30 aircraft

Asbestos on the USS Independence CVL 22 has serious consequences

At the time of the second World War, the United States Navy, or anyone for that matter, had any idea that asbestos could be dangerous for human health, and that is why they built ships using asbestos materials in several areas. Insulating and fireproofing materials containing asbestos were damaged on the ship, and people in the area could be exposed to a dangerous amount of fibers. No former crew member on the USS Independence has suffered from any type of asbestos related disease, but such a disease could still be latent.

Have you been exposed to asbestos on board the USS Independence? Contact an attorney!

Any former crew member might have been exposed to asbestos in a dangerous amount on board the USS Independence, and because of that, they have to know the following: if you developed a serious medical condition, you are entitled to some form of compensation. It is to your benefit in contacting an asbestos lawyer to handle all the legal requirements for a case. The money awarded will help you pay for treatment.

Feel free to contact an asbestos professional whenever to the need arises, as information will always be free.