Bangor Air Guard Training Site
Base Background
Located on the grounds of Bangor International Airport, the Bangor Air Guard Training Site is an important training and operational facility for the United States Air National Guard. This base, primarily used by the Maine Air National Guard, focuses on training and readiness for various missions. It houses the 101st Air Refueling Wing and plays a significant role in air refueling and support missions, contributing to both national defense and international operations.
Toxic Exposure at Bangor Air Guard
Maine Air National Guard’s base of operations at Bangor International Airport has been confirmed to sit atop groundwater heavily contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These toxic “forever chemicals” seeped into the groundwater following decades of firefighting foam use on the property by the guard.
Status of the PFAS Contamination
A 2022 U.S. Air Force report indicates a high risk that PFAS contamination has spread beyond the base boundaries, potentially affecting area water supplies. The fire station at Bangor’s Air National Guard base only replaced its toxic firefighting foam with a PFAS-free alternative in September 2024.
If you developed a medical condition related to toxic exposure after living or working at or near the base, you may be able to obtain compensation. Get a free case evaluation to explore your legal options.
Known Toxins
The following chart outlines the medical conditions associated with toxic exposure at this base, classified by the strength of evidence required (strong, good or limited).* Please keep in mind that it is not a complete list.
| Toxin | Potential Effects | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strong | Good | Limited | ||
| PFAS (Firefighting Foam) | Potential Effects | - | - | Testicular cancer, Renal (kidney) cancer, Prostate cancer |
*Effects are according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry unless otherwise noted.
Paths to Getting Compensation
Veterans and civilians who lived or worked at or near the base may be able to receive compensation if they developed health conditions associated with toxic exposure. This would require:
Documenting the time spent at the base using service records and other documentation
Gathering comprehensive medical evidence
Obtaining expert medical opinions to establish a link between the diagnosed medical conditions and the toxic exposure
Making a VA disability claim or pursuing a lawsuit
For a free case evaluation, please call us on 1-888-477-2363. We specialize in disability law and work on a contingency basis, with no upfront fees.