Terry McClure, a former Marine stationed at Camp Lejeune, was diagnosed with multiple health issues, including Parkinson’s disease, prostate cancer, and lung cancer, linked to contaminated drinking water at the base. He joined thousands in filing claims under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, seeking justice for the health issues caused by the contamination. However, progress in settling these claims has been slow, frustrating many victims. President Joe Biden signed the PACT Act to expand benefits for toxic-exposed veterans, including those from Camp Lejeune. A provision of the bill allowed victims to file new lawsuits if their initial claims were not addressed by the Navy within six months. The Justice Department and the Navy announced a streamlined process to resolve claims, with settlement offers ranging from $100,000 to $550,000 based on specific diseases and exposure time. Of the 109 offers made, 64 have been accepted. However, the overall progress in resolving claims has been described as insultingly slow by attorneys representing victims. McClure passed away before his claim could be resolved, leaving behind a grieving wife who continues to fight for justice for others affected by the contamination at Camp Lejeune. The Department of Veterans Affairs acknowledges the link between the chemical exposure at the base and certain health conditions, with victims eligible to pursue litigation against the government if they can prove their exposure and resulting health issues.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com