Asbestos Exposure on Ships:

USS ALLEN M. SUMNER DD 692 DESTROYER

This ship was the original Allen M. Sumner -class destroyer, named for Allen Melancthon Sumner, a United States Marine Corps captain, who was killed in action during World War I. The destroyer was launched on 15th December 1943; sponsored by Mrs. Allen M. Sumner, Captain Sumner's widow and commissioned at the New York Navy Yard on 26th January 1944, with Commander Norman J. Sampson in command. This warship took part in three main theaters of war as following: World War II in 1944 to 1945, Korea in 1953 and Vietnam in 1967. After these conflicts ended, the destroyer resumed normal operations out of Mayport. Throughout 1968, she cruised the waters of the West Indies, frequently providing support for the encircled naval base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. In May 1969, she voyaged to England and northern European waters to participate in a NATO review celebrating the 20th anniversary of the alliance. On 1st July 1971, she was reassigned to duty as a Naval Reserve training ship. In mid-August, the warship moved to Baltimore, where she began her Naval Reserve training duties. That employment remained her assignment until 15th August 1973 at which time Sumner was decommissioned at Baltimore. The destroyer earned two battle stars during World War II, one during the Korean War, and two during the Vietnam conflict. Some of the ships characteristics are:

  • Weight 3315 tons in full load
  • Length 376 feet
  • Speed 34 knots

Asbestos on the USS Allen M. Sumner Caused Diseases

In the period the destroyer was built, asbestos materials were used in shipyards, on ships and on this destroyer as well. Asbestos materials were used for fireproofing and insulation purposes, because people didn’t know, at the time, that these materials were harmful. Officers, crew and even passengers could have been exposed to tiny fibers of asbestos released into the air, because the materials damaged easily. Long exposure to asbestos could lead to very serious health problems and even cancer.

Have you been exposed to asbestos on the USS Allen M. Sumner? Contact an attorney?

If you or someone you know was exposed to asbestos on the USS Allen M. Sumner, it is important that you know all your legal rights, because it could be useful. You might be entitled to some form of compensation, so in that regard, you have to contact a specialized attorney. He will evaluate your situation; advise you on legal matters and whether or not to file acclaim in your name. This will allow you to receive the best medical treatment available and the means to pay for it.

If you have any questions regarding legal aspects and related information, do not hesitate to contact an asbestos expert. This service is completely free.