Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
Base Background
Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point was established in 1941 as an essential East Coast air station for the Marine Corps. Located in Havelock, North Carolina, it has served as a vital training and operational facility throughout multiple conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and more recent military operations.
Toxic Exposure at Cherry Point
Toxic exposure has been a concern since 1994 when the EPA placed Cherry Point on the Superfund program’s National Priorities List after the discovery of contamination in groundwater, soil, sediment, and surface water. This designation highlighted the severity of the environmental issues at the base and initiated cleanup efforts that continue today.
Did Cherry Point Have Contaminated Water?
Yes, Cherry Point has experienced significant contamination issues affecting its water sources, primarily from PFAS, VOCs, and petroleum.
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) were detected in various locations throughout the base, particularly in areas near maintenance facilities and fuel storage locations.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) were commonly used in firefighting foams (AFFF) during training exercises and actual fire emergencies on military bases. PFAS persist in the environment indefinitely, earning them the “forever chemicals” nickname, and can accumulate in the human body. Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to various health issues, including cancer.
If you have a condition related to PFAS contamination, you can seek compensation through a VA disability claim or a lawsuit. Get a free case evaluation here to explore your options with no upfront cost.
Is Cherry Point part of the Camp Lejeune lawsuit?
No, but you can make an individual claim. While Cherry Point is not included in the Camp Lejeune Justice Act that created a specific legal pathway for those affected by water contamination at Camp Lejeune, individuals impacted by Cherry Point contamination can still pursue compensation through other legal avenues.
You will need to be able to prove that you suffered adverse health effects due to exposure to toxins at the installation. This requires establishing a connection between your time at Cherry Point, the specific contaminants you were exposed to, and your subsequent health conditions. Contact us and we’ll either assist you or point you in the right direction.
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 | ||
| Petroleum | Potential Effects | - | - | Multiple myeloma, Laryngeal cancer |
| PFAS (Firefighting Foam) | Potential Effects | - | - | Testicular cancer, Renal (kidney) cancer, Prostate cancer |
| Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) | Potential Effects | Rhinitis irritant | - | - |
*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 (VA) recognizes toxic exposure during military service as potentially eligible for disability benefits, for certain diagnoses associated with contaminated water. Additionally, both veterans and non-veterans may seek compensation for PFAS exposure through lawsuits.
An experienced lawyer can assist you in winning your case. Please call us on 1-888-477-2363 for a free evaluation. We specialize in disability law and work on a contingency basis, with no upfront fees.