Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly known as PFAS have emerged as one of the most serious environmental and public health threats linked to U.S. military service. These chemicals were widely used for decades on military bases, primarily through firefighting foams, contaminating drinking water, soil, and surrounding communities.
Because PFAS do not break down naturally, exposure risks persist long after service members leave an installation. Veterans, military families, and civilian workers continue to report cancers, autoimmune disorders, and other chronic illnesses years after living or serving on affected bases. As environmental standards tighten and awareness grows, PFAS exposure has become an increasingly important issue for veterans seeking health care and disability benefits.
Overview : PFAS Exposure and Military Bases
| Category | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Type | PFAS (“forever chemicals”) |
| Primary Military Source | Firefighting foam (AFFF) |
| Number of Affected Bases | 600+ confirmed, 100+ suspected |
| Exposure Method | Drinking water, soil, groundwater |
| VA Presumptive Status | Not presumptive (as of 2025) |
| Possible Benefits | VA health care, disability claims |
What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?
PFAS are a large family of synthetic chemicals developed in the 1940s. They are resistant to heat, water, and oil, which made them useful in industrial and military applications but also extremely dangerous to human health.
Often called “forever chemicals,” PFAS persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body. Medical researchers have found that once PFAS enter the bloodstream, they can remain for years.
A public health toxicologist explains, “PFAS exposure is uniquely concerning because there is no natural elimination pathway—once these chemicals enter the body, they stay.”
How the Military Used PFAS on Bases?
The U.S. military used PFAS-containing aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) extensively for aircraft crash response and firefighting training. This foam was repeatedly discharged onto runways, fields, and training sites for decades.
Over time, PFAS seeped into groundwater and base water systems. Early testing methods were not capable of detecting these chemicals at low concentrations, meaning contamination went unnoticed for years.
According to an environmental policy expert, “The scale of PFAS use on military installations was unprecedented, and the environmental consequences were inevitable.”
Health Risks Linked to PFAS Exposure
Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to a range of serious conditions. Veterans who lived or worked on contaminated installations especially those who consumed base drinking water may face elevated risks.
Commonly Associated Health Conditions
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Liver damage
- Immune system suppression
- Decreased fertility
- Developmental delays in children
A clinician familiar with environmental exposure cases notes, “Many veterans develop symptoms years later, making the service connection harder but not impossible to prove.”
Military Bases with Confirmed PFAS Contamination
PFAS contamination has been identified in all 50 states. Several hundred military installations have confirmed PFAS detection, and many more remain under investigation.
Examples of Affected Bases
- Fort Wainwright – Alaska
- Naval Station Newport – Rhode Island
- Robins Air Force Base – Georgia
- Norton Air Force Base – California
- U.S. Air Force Academy – Colorado
Federal standards tightened significantly in 2023 when enforceable drinking water limits were set at 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for several PFAS compounds. Many bases previously considered “safe” now exceed allowable limits.
Cleanup Efforts and Recent Updates
The Department of Defense has launched a nationwide PFAS remediation effort, including:
- Investigating contaminated installations
- Providing alternate water sources
- Replacing PFAS-based firefighting foam
- Conducting long-term environmental monitoring
An environmental engineer involved in remediation efforts stated, “Cleanup will take decades at some sites, even under aggressive remediation plans.”
What Veterans Can Do If They Were Exposed?
Veterans who believe they were exposed to PFAS during service should act proactively. Although PFAS-related illnesses are not presumptive under VA rules as of 2025, veterans may still qualify for benefits.
Steps Veterans Should Take
- Confirm whether your base is listed as PFAS-contaminated
- Document dates and duration of service on the installation
- Seek medical evaluation and request PFAS-related testing
- Maintain copies of medical and service records
Eligibility for VA Benefits After PFAS Exposure
To receive VA disability compensation, veterans must still establish service connection, which requires:
| Requirement | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Current Diagnosis | Medical proof of an illness |
| In-Service Exposure | Evidence of PFAS exposure |
| Medical Nexus | Link between exposure and condition |
A veterans law expert emphasizes, “PFAS claims hinge on strong medical opinions general exposure alone is not enough.”
Why PFAS Exposure Claims Matter?
PFAS contamination represents one of the largest environmental exposures linked to military service. As awareness increases, veterans may see:
- Expanded medical monitoring programs
- Stronger regulatory accountability
- Future presumptive conditions
The issue is both a health crisis and a policy challenge one that could shape veterans’ law for decades.
FAQs
Are PFAS-related illnesses presumptive for VA benefits?
No, not as of 2025. Veterans must prove service connection.
Can family members file VA claims for PFAS exposure?
No, but they may pursue other legal or medical options.
How do I know if my base was contaminated?
DoD and environmental health databases list affected installations.
Can PFAS exposure qualify for VA health care?
Yes, veterans may receive treatment even if compensation is denied.
Is cleanup happening at all affected bases?
Cleanup is ongoing, but progress varies widely by location.
