Holloman Air Force Base
Holloman Air Force Base, NM
Known Toxins1
Years of Operation1942-Present
Base Background
Holloman Air Force Base was established in 1942 as Alamogordo Air Field. The base played an important role in deploying troops to the Pacific Theater during World War II. During the 20th century, the base hosted a variety of fighter jets. Currently, this site is home to the 49th Wing. Pilots train on the F-16 Fighting Falcons, T-38 Talon, and MQ-9 Reapers.
Toxic Exposure at Holloman AFB
Holloman Air Force Base is a confirmed site of contamination with PFAS (PFOS/PFOA), chemicals tied to the military’s use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) for firefighting and training. These toxins can move through water and persist in the environment for long periods, potentially affecting veterans and other people living in the area. Holloman AFB has recognized and taken steps to address toxic exposure risks, such as the July 2025 temporary closure of public land access near the Holloman Evaporation Pond area due to potential exposure to PFAS.
The Air Force Civil Engineer Center has installed 36 groundwater monitoring wells since 2019 to better understand PFAS in groundwater at the facility. As of January 2026, the Air Force invested more than $143 million in PFAS cleanup at New Mexico sites such as Cannon Air Force Base, Holloman AFB and Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque.
If you developed health issues related to PFAS after living or working at or near the base, you may be eligible for compensation. Get a free case evaluation here to explore your legal options with the help of Hill & Ponton’s VA-accredited lawyers.
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.
Holloman Air Force Base VA Claims and Lawsuits
Veterans who served at Holloman Air Force Base and developed health conditions potentially linked to toxic exposure may be eligible for disability benefits. We recommend the following steps:
- Document the time spent at the base using service records and other documentation
- Gather comprehensive medical evidence
- Obtain expert medical opinions to establish a link between diagnosed medical conditions and PFAS exposure
- File VA disability claims or a lawsuit
The VA often denies initial claims, but an experienced VA disability lawyer can handle the appeal on your behalf or challenge a low rating to maximize your compensation.