The USNS Gilliland (T-AKR-298) was a Gordon-class large, medium-speed roll-on-roll-off vehicle cargo ship built in 1972 as MV Selandia, a merchant vessel. The Navy later acquired and converted the vessel, assigning her to the MSC. The ship was lengthened in 1984 to serve the Navy's needs better. She was one of 28 Strategic Sealift Ships assigned to the MSC Atlantic surge force and maintained in Ready Operational Status. After breaking free from her mooring due to a sudden windstorm in 1966 and crossing the harbor, the ship collided with a submarine and a destroyer, causing damage. The USNS Gilliland was stricken from the Register in 2023 and transferred to the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD), renamed MV Charles L. Gilliland, losing the USNS designation. Asbestos was a valued insulating material in shipbuilding thanks to its durability, nonconductivity, and heat resistance. Consequently, more than 300 asbestos-containing products were embedded in vessels built for expanding the Navy fleet. If you are a veteran who worked on ships during or after World War II, you may be at risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses. This is why we strongly suggest you make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible to check your lung health.
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