Across the United States, hundreds of military bases have been identified as sites contaminated by PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly found in firefighting foams known as AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam). These chemicals have seeped into surrounding soil and groundwater, posing long-term health risks to military personnel, their families, and neighboring communities.
According to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), more than 700 installations have detected PFAS contamination. This pollution threatens service members, veterans, civilian workers, and nearby residents, many of whom rely on the same aquifers and water systems.
Stag Liuzza has been fighting for individuals and municipalities who have been personally harmed by these toxic chemicals since the very beginning of this litigation. We continue to fight for those who have been affected, which is why we believe it’s important to keep the public informed on the dangers of PFAS exposure and the areas that are at-risk.
Below is an overview of confirmed contamination sites, the health risks associated with PFAS exposure, and the legal options available to affected individuals, families, and property owners.
List of Military Bases with PFAS-Contaminated Drinking Water
As of the most recent data, 97 U.S. military bases have confirmed elevated PFAS levels in their groundwater or drinking water systems. The list continues to grow as testing expands.
Some of the most heavily impacted sites include:
| Site | State |
| Barksdale Air Force Base | Louisiana |
| Fort Bragg | North Carolina |
| Camp Grayling | Michigan |
| Joint Base San Antonio – Lackland AFB | Texas |
| Eglin Air Force Base | Florida |
| Travis Air Force Base | California |
| Pease Air Force Base | New Hampshire |
| Whiteman Air Force Base | Missouri |
| Fairchild AFB | Washington |
| Wurtsmith Air Force Base (Former) | Michigan |
(For a full and regularly updated list, visit the Department of Defense PFAS Site Study.)
Health Risks Linked to PFAS Exposure
PFAS chemicals persist in the environment and in the human body for years, building up with continued exposure. Studies have shown that long-term ingestion through contaminated water can cause multiple serious health effects, including:
- Cancer: Increased risk of kidney, testicular, and liver cancers
- Thyroid Disease: PFAS disrupt hormonal balance, causing hypothyroidism and related disorders
- Immune System Impairment: Reduced response to vaccines and higher infection rates
- Reproductive and Developmental Harm: Pregnancy complications, low birth weight, and delayed development in children
The CDC, EPA, and ATSDR all classify PFAS exposure as a significant public health threat.
PFAS Blood Testing: Understanding Your Exposure
If you have lived or worked on or near a contaminated military base, blood testing can help determine your PFAS levels and guide your medical care.
- Consult Your Doctor: Discuss your history of potential exposure and request appropriate testing.
- Order a PFAS Blood Test: Laboratories such as Eurofins offer convenient self-administered PFAS blood testing kits.
Keep Records: Maintain copies of all test results and any related health symptoms. Proper documentation can support future medical or legal claims.
Off-Base Landowners and Businesses Impacted by PFAS Migration
The effects of PFAS contamination are not limited to the boundaries of military installations. Landowners, farmers, and business owners near contaminated bases are increasingly discovering that PFAS from firefighting foam runoff and groundwater migration has polluted their private wells, soil, and surface water.
How PFAS Travels Offsite
PFAS chemicals are highly mobile and resistant to degradation. They migrate easily through groundwater and stormwater runoff, spreading far beyond the base perimeter. Over time, nearby communities may experience contamination of:
- Private wells and irrigation systems
- Lakes, ponds, and wetlands used for recreation or agriculture
Soil and crops, particularly on farms relying on well or surface water
Consequences for Property Owners
Off-base contamination can have devastating financial and health consequences:
- Decreased Property Values: Contaminated land and water can make property difficult to sell or refinance.
- Business Losses: Farms, ranches, and small businesses may lose customers or face expensive remediation.
- Cleanup Costs: Private owners may face thousands in testing, filtration, and replacement of contaminated wells.
- Health Concerns: Families using private wells may unknowingly consume contaminated water for years.
Legal Options for Off-Base Property Owners
Landowners affected by PFAS migrating from nearby military installations may be entitled to compensation and cleanup assistance. Legal actions can seek:
- Recovery of property value losses
- Reimbursement of cleanup and filtration costs
- Medical monitoring for long-term health risks
- Damages for nuisance and loss of use of property
Stag Liuzza, LLC represents property owners, municipalities, and private citizens impacted by PFAS and other toxic chemicals. Our attorneys are experienced in environmental contamination, toxic tort, and mass-action litigation against corporate and government entities responsible for releasing PFAS into the environment.
Legal Remedies for Service Members, Families, and Communities
Service members, veterans, and civilians exposed to PFAS on military bases may also be eligible for compensation. Claims can include:
- Medical expenses and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Long-term medical monitoring
Our firm continues to represent individuals and municipalities across the country in AFFF firefighting foam litigation, helping clients secure justice and financial recovery from the manufacturers and government contractors that produced and distributed these toxic chemicals.
Take Action: Protect Your Health, Property, and Legal Rights
PFAS contamination on and around U.S. military bases represents one of the most serious environmental health crises in American history.
If you believe your water, property, or health has been affected by PFAS:
- Get your water and blood tested.
- Consult your doctor and keep medical records.
- Speak with an attorney experienced in PFAS and environmental contamination cases.
At Stag Liuzza, LLC, we help individuals, communities, and landowners hold polluters accountable and recover the compensation they deserve.
Learn more or schedule a free consultation at StagLiuzza.com/Contact.
