MacDill Air Force Base
Tampa, FL
Known Toxins1
Years of Operation1939- Present
Base Background
Located just south of downtown Tampa, Florida, MacDill Air Force Base has played a central role in U.S. military operations since it was established in 1939. Initially used as a bomber training facility during World War II, MacDill AFB later transitioned into a hub for aerial refueling and intelligence operations. Today, it serves as headquarters for U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), making it one of the most strategically important installations in the country.
Toxic Exposure at MacDill Air Force Base
One of the most significant toxic exposure risks at MacDill AFB involves per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals commonly known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and human body. These chemicals were primarily introduced through the routine use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) during fire suppression training and emergency responses.
Groundwater testing at MacDill has confirmed PFAS contamination and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection lists MacDill among its active PFAS investigation sites, monitoring potential impacts on nearby water systems. Veterans, base employees, and their families who lived or worked at MacDill for extended periods may have been unknowingly exposed through drinking water, soil contact, or airborne transmission from training sites. If you have a condition related to PFAS contamination, you can get a free case evaluation here.
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.
Hill & Ponton is a Florida law firm specialized in winning compensation for disabled veterans. If you developed a health condition related to PFAS exposure, our VA-accredited disability lawyers may able to help you. Contact us for a free evaluation of your claim – we win 96% of the cases we handle and we’d be honored to assist you.