Camp Gruber
Braggs, OK
Known Toxins1
Years of Operation1942-Present
Base Background
Camp Gruber, located near Braggs in Muskogee County, Oklahoma, has a deep military history dating back to World War II. Originally constructed in 1942, it served as a major training ground for infantry, artillery, and armored units. Over 44,000 troops trained at the site. The military deactivated the base after the war, but Camp Gruber was acquired and reactivated in 1967 by the Oklahoma Army National Guard and remains a key training facility today.
Toxic Exposure at Camp Gruber
In recent years, environmental assessments have raised serious concerns about toxic exposure at Camp Gruber. Testing conducted in 2017 revealed the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the drinking water on base. PFAS were commonly used in firefighting foams and industrial operations. These chemicals are known to persist in the environment and have been linked to numerous health conditions, including cancers, liver and kidney damage, thyroid disease, and immune system dysfunction.
Veterans and civilian personnel who lived or worked at Camp Gruber may have been exposed to these substances through contaminated water or soil, particularly in areas where firefighting training or maintenance operations occurred. The detection of PFAS, including the particularly concerning compounds PFOA and PFOS, adds Camp Gruber to a growing list of military facilities where environmental contamination could pose long-term health risks.
Were You or a Loved One Affected by PFAS Exposure at Camp Gruber?
If you lived or worked on base you may have unknowingly been exposed to these toxins through contaminated water, soil or air. If you developed a condition associated with PFAS contamination, you could be eligible for compensation. Get in touch with a VA disability lawyer for a free case evaluation.
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 & Strength of Evidence Needed | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strong | Good | Limited | ||
| PFAS (Firefighting Foam) | Potential Effects & Strength of Evidence Needed | - | - | 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 Compensation
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes toxic exposure during military service as potentially eligible for veteran disability benefits. Additionally, both veterans and non-veterans may seek compensation for PFAS exposure through lawsuits.
For veterans experiencing health issues associated with toxic exposure, time spent at Camp Gruber may be a critical factor in pursuing a VA disability claim. But establishing service connection for conditions linked to PFAS exposure can be complex, often requiring detailed records and expert medical opinions. Hill & Ponton’s VA-accredited lawyers specialize in disability law and work on a contingency basis, with no upfront fees. Contact us today for a free evaluation of your case.