U.S Military Bases and Widespread PFAS Contamination

Across the United States, hundreds of military bases are facing the long-term consequences of PFAS contamination, an environmental crisis that continues to spread through soil, groundwater, and drinking water supplies. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that have been widely used in consumer products and industrial applications for decades because of their resistance to heat, water, and oil. Unfortunately, this same durability means they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. Once released, PFAS can accumulate and remain in ecosystems and human tissue for years, increasing the risk of serious health problems.

One of the most significant sources of PFAS contamination on military installations is the use of aqueous film-forming foam, or AFFF. This firefighting foam has been a standard tool for the Department of Defense since the 1960s, used in training exercises and emergency fire response. AFFF is highly effective at extinguishing fuel-based fires, but it contains high concentrations of PFAS. When discharged, the foam often seeps into nearby soil and groundwater, spreading contamination far beyond the point of release. This has affected service members, their families, and nearby communities who rely on local water supplies, many of which now contain unsafe levels of PFAS.

The scale of the issue is staggering. The Department of Defense has acknowledged that more than 700 current and former military sites are likely contaminated with PFAS. The cost of cleanup is already in the billions and is expected to rise significantly as testing and remediation continue. Many affected areas require advanced filtration systems to remove PFAS from drinking water, and those systems come with steep installation and maintenance costs. For the people exposed, the financial impact often includes medical bills, loss of property value, and the emotional burden of chronic health concerns. Scientific research has linked PFAS exposure to multiple forms of cancer, liver damage, immune dysfunction, and developmental delays in children.

While cleanup and treatment efforts move slowly, questions of responsibility and accountability have taken center stage. It has become clear that both chemical manufacturers and government agencies were aware of the dangers of PFAS long before the public was informed. Documents show that companies producing these substances had evidence of health risks decades ago but failed to act. Likewise, regulatory oversight lagged behind emerging science, allowing PFAS to spread unchecked in communities across the country. For military families and civilians living near contaminated bases, the damage has already been done, and the consequences are still unfolding.

In recent years, legal action has emerged as a powerful tool to address this crisis. Individuals and municipalities are filing lawsuits against chemical manufacturers and, in some cases, government entities to recover damages related to PFAS exposure. These cases are complex and require a deep understanding of both environmental law and the underlying science. Law firms that handle toxic torts and environmental claims are essential in helping victims pursue compensation for medical care, property damage, and other losses. The legal system is beginning to hold polluters accountable, but the process is still in its early stages, and many affected individuals remain unaware of their rights.

At Smith & Johnson, we are committed to standing with those harmed by PFAS contamination. Military families and nearby communities deserve transparency, justice, and compensation for the health risks and financial strain they now face. Our legal team brings the experience and determination necessary to fight for those impacted by this widespread environmental hazard. If you or a loved one has been affected by PFAS exposure on or near a military base, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about your legal options. The road to justice may be long, but you do not have to walk it alone.