Fort Benning Water Contamination

Fort Moore (formerly Benning), located near Columbus, Georgia, has been a crucial U.S. Army installation since its establishment in 1918. As the home of the United States Army Maneuver Center of Excellence, the base is vital for training soldiers in infantry, armor, and cavalry operations. It was renamed to Fort Moore from Fort Benning to remove past associations with the Confederacy.

Fort Moore has approximately 12,900 permanent active duty military members. The base also supports a large number of family members, reserve component soldiers, retirees, and civilian employees. With an average income of $42,000 for those serving as well as the local community in Columbus, people can ill afford the potential life changing costs of being contaminated by toxic wastewater.

Water Contamination Updates at Fort Benning

2024: Ongoing investigations have linked PFAS contamination at Fort Moore (formerly Benning) to the historical use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) during firefighting training exercises, which is a common source of PFAS pollution at military installations.

2021: Elevated lead levels were discovered during maintenance of the hot water system at the NCO Academy (Building 399), exceeding the EPA’s action threshold, raising concerns about the safety of drinking water on the base.

2018: A report by Reuters highlighted lead levels in five homes on the base, with one residence showing lead concentrations 58 times higher than federal safety limits, indicating significant contamination risks for residents.

Fort Benning: History of Toxic Exposure

Environmental assessments at Fort Moore (formerly Benning) have revealed various contaminants over the years. Key toxic substances identified include per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), lead, thallium, and arsenic, raising significant health concerns for both military personnel and their families.

Where the Contamination Was on Fort Benning

Contamination hotspots at Fort Moore (formerly Benning) primarily include areas where AFFF was utilized in firefighting training. Additionally, lead contamination has been detected in residential neighborhoods, posing risks to those living on the base and the wider community.

What Contaminants Were Found at Fort Moore Benning?

Recent investigations have uncovered several hazardous substances at Fort Moore (formerly Benning), including:

1. PFAS: Notably perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), which have raised alarms due to their persistence in the environment and health effects like respiratory problems.

2. Lead: A heavy metal known for its toxic effects, particularly on children and pregnant women.

3. Thallium: A toxic element that can cause a range of health issues.

4. Arsenic: A well-known carcinogen that poses serious health risks most notably the risk of developing cancer.

Water Quality and Advanced Water Treatment Efforts at Fort Benning

In response to contamination concerns, Fort Moore (formerly Benning) has implemented ongoing water quality monitoring and treatment initiatives. The Army conducts annual water sampling to ensure that safety standards are met and to address any detected contaminants.

However, the threat of forever chemicals continues to plague the base, those serving, and those living near and around Fort Moore.

Drinking Water at Fort Benning and the Health Risks

The presence of various contaminants in the water supply at Fort Moore (formerly Benning) has been linked to a multitude of health risks, including:

• Compromised immune function
• Hormonal imbalances
• Thyroid disorders
• Ulcerative colitis
• Increased risk of certain cancers (including kidney, testicular, bladder, and thyroid) 
• Cognitive impairments and memory issues in children
• Behavioral and mental health challenges.

Do I Qualify for a Lawsuit?

Veterans and their families who have served at Fort Moore (formerly Benning) and later developed health conditions potentially related to PFAS or other contaminants may be eligible for compensation[6].

What Are the Potential Settlement Amounts From Water Contamination at Fort Benning?

While specific settlement figures for Fort Moore (formerly Benning) water contamination cases are not readily available, compensation amounts typically depend on factors such as the severity of health issues, age of the affected individuals, and the strength of evidence linking their conditions to exposure.

Generally speaking, around 30,000 to $500,000 has typically been won, with some vets and their families reaching $1,000,000 in justice. It’s advisable to get legal advice and Military Hazards recommended pick is King’s Law attorneys, who have a track record of doing what needs to be done to get the reparations needed.

Can I File a Lawsuit Against Fort Benning?

If you are considering legal action regarding water contamination at Fort Moore (formerly Benning), it is essential to consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible. They can assist you in navigating the legal process, gathering necessary evidence, and adhering to relevant deadlines.

What Would I Need to Support My Claim?

To bolster a lawsuit related to water contamination at Fort Moore (formerly Benning), you will generally need to provide:

• Documentation proving exposure to contaminated water at Fort Moore (formerly Benning)
• A medical diagnosis linking your condition to the identified contaminants
• Evidence demonstrating residence or employment at Fort Moore (formerly Benning) during the contamination period.

What Are the Filing Deadlines for a Lawsuit?

Filing deadlines for lawsuits related to contamination can vary based on state laws and specific case circumstances. It is crucial to consult with an attorney to understand the applicable timeframes and ensure that your claim is submitted promptly.

Who Can I Speak With About My Case?

Numerous law firms specialize in cases involving water contamination at military installations, including Fort Benning. It is advisable to seek out attorneys with experience in environmental and military-related legal matters, particularly those focusing on PFAS contamination. For expert guidance, consider reaching out to Kings Law attorneys.