Water, War, and Wellness: Understanding the Camp Lejeune Contamination
The story of Camp Lejeune’s toxic water contamination spans several decades, revealing a tragic chapter in the history of environmental health and military oversight. From 1952 to 1987, the toxic water crisis at Camp Lejeune, a United States Marine Corps base in North Carolina, unfolded with far-reaching consequences for the health and well-being of military personnel, their families, and surrounding communities.
The origins of the contamination can be traced back to the disposal practices of various chemicals and hazardous substances on the base during the mid-20th century. Like many military installations of its time, Camp Lejeune used a combination of on-site disposal methods, including dumping and burial, to manage waste from industrial operations, maintenance activities, and everyday operations. While common at the time, these practices would ultimately have devastating effects on the local water supply.
One of the primary contaminants identified in the Camp Lejeune water supply was trichloroethylene (TCE), a solvent used in degreasing metal parts. Other volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as perchloroethylene (PCE) and benzene, were also found in the water. These chemicals had seeped into the groundwater from leaking storage tanks, landfills, and disposal pits on the base.
Despite early signs of contamination and concerns raised by base personnel and residents about the quality of the drinking water, it wasn't until the late 1970s and early 1980s that the extent of the problem began to emerge. Investigations and studies conducted by federal agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) revealed alarming levels of contaminants in the water supply and their potential health risks.
The discovery of the toxic water contamination at Camp Lejeune sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Many military personnel and their families who had lived and worked on the base during the years of contamination reported a range of health issues, including various cancers, neurological disorders, and birth defects. The long-term health effects of exposure to these chemicals continue to be studied and debated.
In response to the crisis, efforts were made to address the contamination and support affected individuals and communities. Cleanup efforts were initiated to mitigate the further spread of the contaminants, and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) created a community assistance panel (CAP) to voice the concerns of the affected community of Marines and their families and to provide input on ATSDR’s public health activities.
Federal recognition of Camp Lejeune’s toxic water contamination led to increased scrutiny and oversight of military environmental practices. Cleanup efforts focused on remediation of contaminated sites and monitoring groundwater quality to prevent further exposure. Additionally, federal agencies worked to improve communication and transparency regarding environmental hazards on military installations.
Despite these efforts, ongoing litigations have persisted, with affected individuals seeking justice and compensation for the health problems they have faced due to exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. Lawsuits have been filed against the U.S. government and private contractors responsible for the disposal of hazardous materials on the base. These legal battles have brought attention to the need for accountability and reform in military environmental practices.
The Camp Lejeune story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship, regulatory oversight, and accountability in safeguarding public health and ensuring the well-being of communities affected by environmental disasters. It underscores the ongoing need for transparency, collaboration, and support for those impacted by toxic exposures, both within the military and beyond.
