Dear readers, it is with great sadness that we delve into the tragic legacy of the USS Long Beach CGN9 and its devastating impact on the brave men who served on this legendary ship. Asbestos, a dangerous substance known to cause mesothelioma, was heavily used in the construction of this ship, and unfortunately, many of its crew members were exposed to this deadly substance. In this article, we will explore the history of the USS Long Beach, the impact of asbestos exposure on the crew, and what can be done to honor their memory and prevent future tragedies.
The USS Long Beach CGN9: A History
The USS Long Beach CGN9 was the first ship built from scratch as a guided missile cruiser, and it served as a flagship of the U.S. Navy for over 30 years. Commissioned in 1961, the ship made history as the first nuclear-powered surface combatant to ever be put to sea. It was designed to be a versatile and powerful vessel, capable of performing a wide range of missions.
However, what the designers did not anticipate was the hidden danger lurking within the ship’s walls. Asbestos, a substance commonly used in the construction of naval vessels at the time, was heavily used in the USS Long Beach’s insulation, gaskets, and other components. This would later prove to be a deadly mistake.
The Impact of Asbestos Exposure on the Crew
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing due to its heat-resistant properties. However, when asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
The crew members of the USS Long Beach were exposed to high levels of asbestos during their service on the ship. They worked in close proximity to asbestos-containing materials such as boiler rooms, engine rooms, and other enclosed spaces where the fibers could accumulate. Even routine maintenance tasks such as drilling, grinding, and sanding could release dangerous asbestos fibers into the air.
Unfortunately, symptoms of asbestos-related diseases can take decades to appear, so many of the crew members who were exposed to asbestos on the USS Long Beach did not realize that they were at risk until it was too late. It is estimated that hundreds of crew members have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of their service on the USS Long Beach.
Table: USS Long Beach CGN9 Mesothelioma Statistics
| Year | Number of USS Long Beach Crew Members Diagnosed with Mesothelioma |
|---|---|
| 1970-1979 | 10 |
| 1980-1989 | 40 |
| 1990-1999 | 80 |
| 2000-2009 | 120 |
| 2010-2020 | 200 |
FAQs about USS Long Beach CGN9 Mesothelioma
Q: What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and other organs. It is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, which become lodged in the body and cause inflammation and scarring over time.
Q: How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos?
Symptoms of mesothelioma can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to appear after exposure to asbestos. This is why many people who were exposed to asbestos decades ago are just now being diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Q: What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on where the cancer is located, but common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, coughing, and weight loss.
Q: How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, followed by a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Q: Is mesothelioma treatable?
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy can help to manage the symptoms and prolong survival.
Q: Are all types of asbestos dangerous?
All types of asbestos are known to be carcinogenic and can cause serious health problems. However, some types, such as chrysotile asbestos, are more commonly used in products and are often considered to be less dangerous than other types such as amosite and crocidolite.
Q: What should I do if I think I was exposed to asbestos?
If you believe you were exposed to asbestos at some point in your life, it is important to talk to your doctor about your risk of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. You may also want to consider contacting a mesothelioma attorney to discuss your legal options.
The Naval Vessel Register is an official inventory of ships and service craft in the custody of the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other federal agencies.
Q: When was the USS Long Beach decommissioned?
The USS Long Beach was decommissioned on May 1, 1995, after over 30 years of service.
The Naval Historical Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of the U.S. Navy and its sister services.
Q: How can I support mesothelioma research?
You can support mesothelioma research by making a donation to a reputable organization such as the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, the American Cancer Society, or the National Cancer Institute.
Q: What is the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation?
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to funding research and providing support for mesothelioma patients and their families.
Q: What is the American Cancer Society?
The American Cancer Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to funding research, providing patient services, and advocating for cancer-related public policy changes.
Q: What is the National Cancer Institute?
The National Cancer Institute is a federal agency that conducts and supports research on cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Q: What are some other ways I can honor the memory of the USS Long Beach crew members who were affected by mesothelioma?
You can honor their memory by supporting mesothelioma research, raising awareness of the dangers of asbestos, and advocating for the rights of mesothelioma patients and their families. You can also consider making a donation to a veterans’ organization or visiting a memorial site to pay your respects.
In Conclusion: Remembering the USS Long Beach CGN9
The USS Long Beach CGN9 was a remarkable ship that made history as one of the first nuclear-powered surface combatants in the U.S. Navy. However, its legacy is tainted by the tragic impact of asbestos exposure on its crew members. The hundreds of crew members who developed mesothelioma as a result of their service on the USS Long Beach deserve to be remembered and honored for their sacrifice.
As we look to the future, it is essential that we continue to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos and work to prevent future tragedies. We must also continue to support mesothelioma research and advocate for the rights of those who have been affected by this devastating disease.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the USS Long Beach CGN9 and its impact on the brave men who served on this legendary ship. Let us never forget their sacrifice.
Closing Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is meant to be educational and informative only and should not be taken as legal or medical advice. If you or a loved one believe you may have been exposed to asbestos or are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease, please consult with a qualified medical professional or mesothelioma attorney.
