An open-air burn pit at a U.S. military base in Iraq is putting our troops in danger. As a result of the pit, thousands of troops have been exposed to carcinogenic toxins and medical waste. The fumes from the burn pit create a cloud that continually covers the base headquarters, military hospital, and living quarters for the troops.
Bioenvironmental engineers who have examined the pit have declared that it poses a serious health hazard to those who are exposed to its smoke. While burn pits such as these are common near military bases, there is currently no procedure in place for ensuring that they are run properly so that our troops are not harmed by their by-products.
Some of the toxins that troops have been exposed to include benzene (which can cause leukemia), arsenic, carbon monoxide, Freon, hydrogen cyanide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfuric acid.
One retired Air Force colonel has been suffering from chronic headaches as a result of his exposure to the burn pit. Many troops have been coughing up black crud and blood, and have experienced sinus problems, nasal congestion, severe coughs, and headaches. Currently, the Air Force is denying that the burn pit is responsible for these health problems among many of the troops residing in the area.
If you have suffered health problems as a result of exposure to toxic chemicals while serving overseas, you should consult an experienced personal injury attorney. You may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries. You may be able to recoup your medical expenses and collect damages for pain and suffering. If it can be proven that the military knowingly committed such negligence in maintaining safe conditions, you may be able to collect punitive damages as well.
If you need to file a personal injury claim in the Phoenix, Arizona area, please contact the law offices of Snyder & Wenner, P.C. today to schedule an initial consultation.