Joint Base Charleston
North Charleston, SC
Known Toxins1
Years of Operation1942-Present
Base Background
Joint Base Charleston opened in 1942 in response to the start of World War II. The site functioned as an air depot training station for air personnel who would soon deploy overseas. Following the war, the base was converted into a civilian airport and eventually back into a military installation. Today, Joint Base Charleston is home to a number of units, including the 628th Air Base Wing, 437th Airlift Wing, and Naval Support Activity.
Toxic Exposure at Joint Base Charleston
Joint Base Charleston has been identified as a site with significant PFAS contamination, primarily due to decades of firefighting foam (AFFF) use during training and aircraft operations. Testing has revealed high PFAS levels in surface water runoff draining into nearby streams and the Ashley River. Groundwater and soil contamination have also been confirmed in multiple areas on base.
If you developed a medical condition related to toxic exposure after living or working at or near the base, our VA disability lawyers may be able to help you 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 & 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.
Our VA disability lawyers experienced in military toxic exposure cases can help veterans affected by the PFAS contamination choose the best path to financial compensation and other veteran benefits, based on their circumstances and medical history.