Legal options for military firefighters exposed to AFFF

Military firefighters who used aqueous film-forming (foam) regularly during their service have been exposed to harmful levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The chemical was known as a breakthrough chemical for various uses in industry and the military. However, these long-lasting chemicals accumulate in the blood, potentially causing severe medical conditions.

PFAS exposure through AFFF has been linked to higher risks of developing different types of cancers and diseases. They affect the organs, disrupt hormone function, and interfere with the immune system. If you have served as a firefighter in the military and developed any of the following conditions, you may be eligible to file a claim:

The legal process for filing claims can be tedious and exhausting, but the outcome is crucial for recovering medical costs and economic damages. While military and civilian firefighters can both file AFFF exposure claims against the foam manufacturers, military firefighters have more options through Veterans Affairs (VA) claims. Military firefighters have the following legal options for filing claims.

AFFF exposure claims against manufacturers

Military firefighters are eligible to file AFFF claims against liable manufacturers. Companies like 3M, Tyco, and DuPont have been the target of multiple product liability and personal injury lawsuits alleging that PFAS chemicals from their products caused severe health conditions. The upcoming bellwether trials on October 6, 2025, for AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL) might push manufacturers to a settlement. Atraxia Law can help you file this claim, starting with an evaluation of the following documents:

  • Military records documenting your AFFF exposure
  • Medical documents showing a diagnosis of a PFAS-related condition

VA disability claims for AFFF exposure

Military firefighters can also pursue benefits by filing VA claims. If you have been exposed to PFAS while stationed at a military base in the U.S., you need to go through the standard VA disability claims process to receive monthly compensation for your condition. Legal representation is essential in filing your claims, as we can help you establish the connection between your diagnosis and PFAS exposure.

Our legal team can determine your eligibility by evaluating your documentary requirements. To file a VA claim, you need to prepare the following documents:

  • Military service records documenting your service at the military base(s)
  • Military records documenting AFFF exposure at the military base(s)
  • Medical documentation confirming a diagnosis of any PFAS-related condition listed above

Atraxia Law helps military firefighters file AFFF claims

Filing VA claims is often tedious, especially if you are battling a disease associated with PFAS exposure. Atraxia Law aims to simplify this process by helping you understand your legal options and determining your eligibility based on your documents. We work with skilled attorneys who handle AFFF claims and VA claims for chemical exposure. If you're eligible, we can help you pursue compensation to cover medical costs and access quality healthcare.