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Written by
Claire Szewczyk
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Agent Orange is widely known for its use during the Vietnam War, but many U.S.-based military installations also tested, stored, or used this harmful herbicide and its chemical components. Veterans stationed at these locations may have been unknowingly exposed to toxic chemicals, contributing to long-term health conditions like prostate cancer, diabetes, and other presumptive diseases recognized by the VA.
FTMC was an active base from 1917 to 1998. Agent Orange was used and stored on base starting in the late 1950s through the 1990s. Agent Orange components, specifically 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T, were reportedly stored and used at the base.
In addition to Agent Orange exposure, Fort McClellan has been identified as an environmental contamination site. Veterans who served here face significant challenges obtaining VA disability benefits due to delays in verifying exposure and contamination reports. Learn more about Fort McClellan’s toxic exposure from the EPA complaint on this issue.
Some of the most notable U.S. military locations where Agent Orange or its components were tested or stored include:
Several other locations, such as Dugway Proving Ground in Utah, Camp Detrick in Maryland, and Fort Gordon in Georgia, were used for field tests and storage of a variety of herbicides, including Agent Orange and related defoliants.
For details on when and how these U.S. military bases stored or used Agent Orange, see the VA Public Health page on Herbicide Tests and Storage.
To ensure accuracy, veterans should consult historical records and service documents when making claims related to these locations. VA evaluates exposure on a case-by-case basis, especially for veterans stationed at bases not officially recognized for herbicide use.
Health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and prostate cancer are often linked to Agent Orange exposure. Veterans with these conditions may qualify for VA benefits under presumptive conditions if they can establish exposure due to serving on a military base that stored Agent Orange.
Veterans who didn’t serve in Vietnam but served in locations like Guam, Korea, Okinawa or Thailand may face additional hurdles proving exposure. Historical records are often incomplete, and many locations are not officially recognized for Agent Orange use. Resources like our Toxic Exposure Map may help to strengthen claims with additional information about toxic exposures at bases you may have served at or nearby.
Recent measures, such as the PACT Act, have expanded access to benefits for veterans exposed to toxic chemicals, making it easier to qualify for compensation and healthcare. Additionally, research into the effects of Agent Orange on second and third generations has shown exposure can have lasting impacts on more than just veterans themselves.
Navigating the VA claims process for Agent Orange exposure can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Hill & Ponton, we’ve assisted thousands of veterans in obtaining the benefits they deserve. If you were exposed to Agent Orange and are facing a denial or need help increasing your VA rating, contact us for a free case evaluation today.
Content Reviewed by
Attorney Shelly M. Mark
Shelly is an attorney passionate about serving underserved communities, including veterans, homeless individuals, and those in need. With experience in VA disability claims and social security law, she has worked with non-profits and as an Equal Justice Works Fellow.
Written by
Claire Szewczyk
Claire Szewczyk is a Digital Content Coordinator for Hill & Ponton, PA in Florida. She was a former US Airforce civilian employee, who worked at Hill Air Force Base, in Layton, UT as a flight testing administrator. She has also spent several years working with the Department of Veterans Affairs audiology programs in Salt Lake City, UT and Pocatello, ID. She enjoys working with the Veteran population and keeping them up to date with information they need the most.
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Thank you to the firm of Hill & Ponton!! Brian Hill and his staff were able to get my 100% disability with the VA for my exposure to herbicides in Thailand. I have been fighting for this for many years and kept getting denied, after consulting with Hill & Ponton I decided to let them help me and it was the best decision I could have made. I found their professionalism to be outstanding.
– Chip P.
They got my disability rating after I was denied twice. They knew exactly how to format and submit the claim. I was rated 50%, Hill & Ponton weren’t done, they found other medical that related to exposure and submitted additional claims. I could not have received a disability rating without Hill & Ponton. If you need help, choose Hill & Ponton.
– Thomas D.
The service provided by Hill and Ponton was exemplary. The lawyers and staff took care of every aspect with respect and understanding of the clients needs. In my case, as a new widow, they patiently walked me through each step. They kept me informed of the progress. I cannot say enough about the service they provided. Thank you Brian and staff.
– Judith K Zitzewitz
As a Vet you may have filed a disability claim, and if you want to win your claim you need to call Hill and Ponton. I didn’t know what to do about my condition or status until I made the call. At H&P they not only took my case, but made me feel like family. They changed my life and they will change your life too. It’s true! In my opinion you can’t do better and you won’t regret it!
– Paul K
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