George Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit

Hazardous chemicals were found in the water at George Air Force Base. Some individuals who lived or worked there or nearby have reported severe health issues. Research is ongoing to evaluate potential risks.

Investigations have confirmed the presence of toxic substances such as PFAS, trichloroethylene (TCE), and benzene in the water supply. Lawsuits allege that responsible parties failed to take adequate precautions or warn of the risks. Legal claims are now being pursued to hold them accountable. If you or a loved one were exposed, you may be eligible to pursue a legal claim. Every case is different and will be reviewed based on individual circumstances.

If you believe your health or a loved one was impacted by George Air Force Base’s toxic exposure, you can take action. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your potential claim.

Note: These are active lawsuits; allegations are still unproven and based on ongoing litigation.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Studies have found PFAS, TCE, Benzene, Pesticides, and other contaminants in George AFB’s water supply. Health officials continue to evaluate potential risks.
• Some studies suggest these toxic substances may be linked to cancer and other severe medical conditions. Research is ongoing.
• Contamination primarily threatened military families, veterans, and civilians who lived on or near the base at the time.
• Some individuals affected by George AFB’s water contamination may be eligible to file legal claims. Compensation, if awarded, depends on case-specific factors.

Understanding the George Air Force Base Contamination

To fully understand what happened at George AFB, let’s review:

• The history of the base
• The history of the contamination
• What is and has been done to clean up the contamination

History of George AFB

George AFB was established in 1941 in Victorville, California, while World War was underway. It was formerly called Victorville Army Flying School.

The base’s primary purpose was to provide support and training for tactical fighters and aircrews. It played an important role in aircraft maintenance and tactical fighter training during the Cold War era.

This training continued until the base was decommissioned in 1992 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) act.

How Military Activities Led to Toxic Exposure

Records from the EPA show that military activities led to chemical leaks into soil and groundwater. Some of the chemicals include:

• PFAS
• Jet Fuel
• Benzene
• Trichloroethylene (TCE)
• Pesticides
• Dioxins
• Radioactive waste

Some of the activities that caused this contamination include:

• Firefighting with Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), which contained PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).
• Aircraft maintenance, which specifically used Trichloroethylene (TCE) and benzene for fuel storage and degreasing.
• On-base landfills and disposal pits where waste was dumped. This waste included pesticides, medical waste, lead, and radioactive material.
• Other instances of contamination came from medical waste, construction debris, and various inorganic compounds.

Over time, the chemicals from these activities spread into the soil and groundwater. The substances also may have migrated into nearby communities.

Superfund Designation and Cleanup Efforts

George AFB was classified by the federal government as a designated “Superfund Site” in 1990. Superfund sites are highly contaminated areas that have been designated for cleanup so that they can eventually be returned to productive use.

In 1981, the Air Force launched an effort to clean up George AFB. The groundwater and soil were among the areas targeted explicitly for cleanup.

Over $113 million was spent cleaning two aquifers of pesticides, jet fuel, and other solvents. Unfortunately, according to the EPA, the contamination persists despite the cleanup efforts.

In 2015, PFAS was discovered in the base’s groundwater.

In 2024, a New York Post article reported that the EPA had found 33 hazardous and radioactive chemicals in the site’s water and soil. These chemicals all pose a risk to human health or the environment.

What Contaminants Were Found in George Air Force Base Water

Here is a more in-depth look at some of the contaminants found at George AFB.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) & Health Risks

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These are man-made chemicals used in various military applications and consumer products.

They are popular in consumer goods due to their heat, cold, stain, and oil-resistant qualities.

Among the military use cases was Firefighting Foam, which was used to extinguish files at the base, usually from training activities.

PFAS have been nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they are very resistant to breaking down. They don’t quickly decompose in nature or the human body, for that matter. In fact, they can remain in the environment for thousands of years.

Several studies have linked PFAS to various cancers and other ailments, but research is ongoing.

The VA has officially recognized PFAS as a health hazard for military members.

Other Toxic Chemicals

Here is an overview of some of the other contaminants found at George AFB:

• Trichloroethylene (TCE) – This chemical was used to degrease metal aircraft parts. Studies have linked it to various cancers.
• Benzene – This is a common chemical found in jet fuel. This chemical is linked to Leukemia.
• Pesticides – Primarily used for vegetation or mosquito control. Specifically, organochlorine-based pesticides (OCPs) were found at George AFB. Studies have associated exposure to these chemicals with an increased risk of cancer in humans.

Health Risks Linked to George AFB Toxic Exposure

Studies suggest potential health risks associated with contaminants found at George AFB, though research is ongoing.

Cancers and Serious Illnesses Caused by Contaminants

Some common cancers linked to the pollutants found at George Air Force Base include:

• Kidney Cancer
• Bladder Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Male Breast Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Multiple Myeloma
• Leukemia

Individuals who lived or worked near George AFB and developed certain medical conditions may be eligible for legal action. A case evaluation can determine eligibility. Contact our firm for a free case evaluation today!

Birth Defects, Reproductive Issues, and Other Long-Term Effects

There are other illnesses and conditions related to the contaminants found at George AFB.

Some of these include:

• Thyroid Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis
• High Cholesterol
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Liver function changes
• Immune suppression
• Congenital disabilities (birth defects) and reported high rates of miscarriages, stillbirths, and infertility.

On the point of reproductive and developmental health issues, the Military Times reported in 2018 that Women at George AFB were given an informal warning, “Don’t get pregnant at George Air Force Base.”

There are women who were stationed there who recall briefings from doctors about pregnancy-related risks due to the contamination. Over 300 women formerly stationed at the base reported health issues, including 94 who reported miscarriages.

Who Qualifies for the George AFB Water Contamination Lawsuit?

In 2020, at least 18 people filed lawsuits related to health conditions linked to the George AFB toxic exposure. Now, we will discuss the criteria for filing your own lawsuit.

Filing a Claim & Eligibility Criteria

To meet the criteria for filing a George Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit, two conditions must be met:

• The individual stayed or worked at or near George AFB during the contamination period.
• The individual has a medically diagnosed condition related to the contamination at George AFB.

Not only service members may qualify, but also their family members, base employees, and nearby residents and workers who meet the criteria.

Recommended Medical and Military Records for Proof of Exposure

We recommended obtaining the following documentation before contacting a George AFB Water Contamination Lawyer:

• Military service records that confirm time stationed or living at or near George AFB.
• Medical records showing illness diagnosis and treatment history.

Potential Settlements & Compensation

Let’s review information related to potential settlements. Compensation in legal claims varies.

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on individual circumstances.

Estimated Payout Ranges for George AFB Claims

There are no set or estimated payout amounts for George AFB water contamination lawsuits. Also, keep in mind that each claim is different and will be subject to individual factors.

Factors That May Influence Compensation Amounts

Let’s review some factors that can influence compensation amounts in toxic exposure lawsuits.

Exposure History and Duration

The level of exposure is possibly an essential factor. This would likely be based on how long someone lived or worked at or near George AFB.

Medical and Scientific Evidence

It is essential to prove that an individual’s medical condition is related to exposure to contamination. Legal professionals can assist in gathering and presenting this evidence.

Medical Diagnosis and Prognosis

The type and severity of the illness are a potentially critical factor.

Laws and Court Cases

Based on emerging laws and court rulings, compensation amounts may be subject to change.

Recoverable Damages

Courts generally assess financial hardship, such as lost wages, medical expenses, and other losses. Non-financial damages might also be considered. Every claim is evaluated based on its individual details and the applicable laws.

How to File Your George Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit

Now, let’s review how you can file your own George AFB water contamination lawsuit.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Claim

• Step 1: Contact a water contamination attorney for a case evaluation.
• Step 2: Gather military records (or similar if your situation is different), medical documents, and evidence of exposure.

Why a Toxic Exposure Lawyer Can Help

A lawsuit can be a very complex process. Finding an attorney to guide you through the process and advocate for you can be very helpful.

Can I Afford a Lawyer?

Our firm operates on a contingency basis, which means you don’t have to pay our legal fees unless you win.

Contingency Fee Disclaimer: Clients may be responsible for court costs. In some cases, they may also be responsible for opposing parties’ fees if a recovery is not obtained.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here is a list of common questions and answers about George AFB lawsuits and contamination.

Is the Water at George AFB Still Contaminated?

George AFB water contamination concerns remain, and environmental assessments are ongoing.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Claim?

We cannot provide a set time frame for resolving a claim. Keep in mind that all claims are evaluated individually.

Can Family Members of Veterans File a Lawsuit?

Yes, spouses and children exposed to toxic water may also qualify.

Contact a George Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawyer Today

Note: Our firm evaluates potential claims. We may also refer cases to other law firms when appropriate. Contact us to discuss your legal options.

Were you or a loved one impacted by toxic exposure at George AFB? Ready to learn more about your legal options?

If so, contact us today for a free case evaluation!