Navy veteran — asbestos exposure from USS Kitty Hawk

Frank, thank you for your service. Navy veterans, especially those who served in engine rooms and boiler rooms, have some of the highest rates of mesothelioma due to heavy asbestos use on ships through the 1980s.

Regarding your VA claim:

1. Mesothelioma from military asbestos exposure should qualify for 100% disability with Individual Unemployability (IU) if applicable. The VA recognizes this connection.

2. To speed up the process, make sure your claim includes: (a) your service records showing your rate/MOS and ship assignment, (b) your mesothelioma diagnosis from a pathologist, and (c) a nexus letter from your doctor linking the diagnosis to military asbestos exposure.

3. Ask your VSO about requesting expedited processing due to serious illness. The VA has a process for advancing claims on the docket for veterans with terminal diagnoses.

4. If your claim is denied or delayed beyond 6 months with a serious illness, contact your Congressional representative's office. They have liaisons with the VA who can escalate.

5. You may also be eligible for VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Special Monthly Compensation on top of disability compensation.

Don't give up on this. The VA benefits are your right.