The USS Sculpin (SSN-590) was a Skipjack-class nuclear-powered submarine laid down in 1958, launched in 1960, and commissioned in 1961. After a period of shakedown training, she deployed for the Western Pacific, tasked with special operations. Having completed local training operations, ordnance evaluation projects, and fleet exercises upon her return, the ship sailed for duty with the Seventh Fleet in 1964, earning her the Navy Unit Commendation Award for her deployment. In the 1970s, the submarine participated in a secret assignment to track gun smuggling trawlers in the South China Sea, operated along the Pacific coast and the western Pacific on an extended cruise, underwent an overhaul, entered drydock for repairs, and participated in the RIMPAC exercise. During the 1980s, the vessel completed a non-refueling overhaul and served in the Mediterranean performing picket duty. The USS Sculpin was decommissioned and stricken from the Register in 1990. Because asbestos-containing materials were used in every Navy ship built from the 19030s to the early 1980s, naval personnel were particularly at risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses. Veterans who were exposed to asbestos during service and have an asbestos cancer diagnosis may qualify for compensation from asbestos trust funds and VA claims.
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