Eglin Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit [2025 Update]

PFAS Contamination Detected at Dangerous Levels in Eglin AFB Groundwater

Eglin Air Force Base (AFB), located in the western Florida Panhandle near Fort Walton Beach, has been identified as a site with dangerously high concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its groundwater.

These hazardous substances, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have been linked to significant health risks and environmental concerns.

According to data collected by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), PFAS levels at Eglin AFB in 2019 were measured as follows:

• PFOS: 535,000 parts per trillion (ppt)
• PFOA: 17,200 ppt
• Combined PFOA + PFOS Levels: 552,200 ppt
• PFBS: 8,260 ppt

These concentrations far exceed the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2024 drinking water standard of 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS.

The presence of PFAS at such alarmingly high levels highlights the need for immediate action to mitigate the risks posed to human health and the surrounding environment.

The contamination is primarily attributed to the extensive use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) during firefighting training and emergency responses at the base.

Over decades, the persistent use of AFFF has led to the infiltration of PFAS chemicals into groundwater, impacting nearby communities and ecosystems.

The long-term exposure to these chemicals poses a serious threat to human health, with potential consequences including cancer, thyroid disease, immune suppression, and developmental issues.

Sources of PFAS at Eglin Air Force Base

The primary source of PFAS contamination at Eglin AFB is the historical use of AFFF, a firefighting foam extensively deployed to combat petroleum fires.

AFFF has been used in training exercises and emergency responses, leaving behind a legacy of hazardous PFAS chemicals that have infiltrated the soil and groundwater.

Other potential sources include industrial activities and the handling of hazardous substances at the base, which serves as a critical air force installation and a hub for non-nuclear munitions testing and development.

These activities have further contributed to the release of PFAS into the environment.

Impacted Populations at Eglin AFB

The PFAS contamination at Eglin AFB has affected multiple populations, including service members, their families, civilian employees, and residents of nearby communities such as Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa County.

These groups face an increased risk of exposure through drinking water, private wells, and other local water systems contaminated with PFAS.

The contamination poses the greatest risk to vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Long-term exposure to PFAS can lead to severe health problems, disrupting the lives of those who rely on the water systems near Eglin AFB.

Addressing PFAS at Eglin AFB

Efforts to address PFAS contamination at Eglin AFB are ongoing and involve collaboration between the Department of Defense, the Environmental Protection Agency, and local authorities.

Initial steps have included water testing, site assessments, and the provision of alternative drinking water supplies for affected residents.

The Air Force is also exploring treatment options to remove PFAS from contaminated water sources and prevent further environmental damage.

The cleanup process remains complex and costly, with long-term monitoring and remediation plans still in development.

Broader Implications of PFAS Contamination at Eglin AFB

The PFAS contamination at Eglin AFB reflects a larger issue affecting military installations across the country.

The widespread use of AFFF in training and emergency scenarios has led to similar contamination at numerous bases, raising concerns about the military’s environmental practices and their impact on human health.

This case highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations, advanced treatment technologies, and greater accountability from both the Department of Defense and PFAS manufacturers.

Addressing these challenges will require a concerted effort to protect public health, restore contaminated environments, and ensure that those affected receive the support and compensation they deserve.

What Are PFAS Chemicals And Why Are They Dangerous?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used since the 1940s for their nonstick, water-repellent, and heat-resistant properties.

Found in countless consumer and industrial products, including nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and firefighting foams like aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), these “forever chemicals” are designed to resist degradation.

While their durability makes them effective in various applications, it also leads to their persistence in the environment and accumulation in the human body, posing significant health and environmental risks.

Why Are PFAS Chemicals Dangerous

PFAS chemicals are dangerous primarily because of their ability to persist in the environment and bioaccumulate in living organisms over time.

These chemicals do not break down naturally, meaning they remain in soil, water, and even the human body for decades.

Their strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them nearly indestructible under normal environmental conditions, which is why they are often called “forever chemicals.”

When introduced into the environment through activities like firefighting, industrial processes, or waste disposal, PFAS quickly spread through water systems, contaminating drinking water and food supplies.

Even at low concentrations, PFAS exposure has been linked to serious health risks, such as cancer, thyroid dysfunction, and immune system suppression.

Their presence in everyday products further increases the risk of widespread exposure, making them a pressing public health concern.

Health Risks Associated with PFAS Exposure

Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to numerous adverse health effects, as these substances interfere with critical biological systems in the human body.

Health risks associated with PFAS exposure include:

• Cancer: Prolonged exposure to certain PFAS, such as PFOA and PFOS, has been associated with an increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer.
• Thyroid Dysfunction: PFAS chemicals can disrupt thyroid hormones, leading to imbalances that affect metabolism and energy levels.
• Immune System Suppression: PFAS have been shown to weaken the immune system, reducing the body’s ability to fight infections and decreasing vaccine efficacy.
• Developmental Issues: Prenatal exposure to PFAS can interfere with fetal development, potentially causing low birth weight and developmental delays in children.
• Cholesterol and Liver Problems: PFAS exposure has been linked to elevated cholesterol levels and signs of liver damage.

These health impacts are particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Environmental Impacts of PFAS

PFAS chemicals pose a serious threat to ecosystems due to their persistence, mobility, and toxicity.

Once released into the environment, PFAS can contaminate soil, water, and air, spreading far beyond their original source.

Aquatic ecosystems are especially vulnerable, as PFAS accumulate in rivers, lakes, and oceans, where they disrupt marine life and enter the food chain.

Wildlife exposed to PFAS often suffers from reproductive issues, immune system problems, and hormonal imbalances, further threatening biodiversity.

Cleanup efforts are exceptionally challenging due to the chemicals’ resistance to natural degradation, leaving communities to deal with long-term contamination of their water sources, agricultural land, and local ecosystems.

Why Urgent Action is Needed

The persistence of PFAS chemicals in the environment and their potential to cause severe health problems demand immediate and comprehensive action.

Without intervention, these chemicals will continue to accumulate in the environment and human bodies, exacerbating their harmful effects over time.

Vulnerable populations, such as those living near contaminated sites or relying on polluted water supplies, face the greatest risks.

Urgent measures, including stricter regulations, advanced water treatment technologies, and comprehensive cleanup programs, are essential to mitigating the ongoing threat of PFAS.

Raising public awareness and holding responsible parties accountable will ensure that affected communities receive the support they need and help prevent future contamination.

Addressing the PFAS crisis now is critical to protecting public health and preserving the environment for future generations.

Overview of the PFAS Litigation

PFAS litigation has emerged as a critical legal front in the fight against environmental contamination and public health risks posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

These “forever chemicals” have been linked to severe health issues, including cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system disorders, as well as widespread environmental pollution.

Litigation has focused on holding manufacturers, government entities, and other responsible parties accountable for their role in producing, using, and failing to properly manage PFAS-containing products like firefighting foams and industrial chemicals.

Plaintiffs in PFAS lawsuits include individuals, municipalities, and organizations who claim damages from contaminated drinking water, property devaluation, and health impacts.

Legal cases seek financial compensation for medical expenses, environmental cleanup, and other damages.

PFAS litigation aims to establish stricter regulatory standards and demand greater corporate responsibility in the production and management of hazardous substances.

Key Defendants

The PFAS litigation primarily targets major chemical manufacturers and corporations involved in the production, distribution, and use of PFAS-containing products.

Key defendants include:

• 3M Company: A leading producer of PFAS chemicals, 3M has faced thousands of lawsuits related to contamination from their products. The company has already agreed to significant settlements, including a $10.3 billion agreement with public water systems in 2023.
• DuPont and Chemours: These companies have been central to PFAS litigation due to their historical role in manufacturing PFAS chemicals. DuPont and its spin-off, Chemours, have settled multiple lawsuits, including a $1.19 billion agreement in 2023 to resolve claims of PFAS water contamination.
• Corteva, Inc.: A successor to DowDuPont, Corteva has been implicated in PFAS lawsuits for its involvement in the production of PFAS chemicals used in industrial applications and consumer goods.
• Tyco Fire Products and Kidde-Fenwal: These companies, known for manufacturing PFAS-containing firefighting foams, have been sued for contamination at military installations, airports, and local communities.

These defendants face claims of negligence, failure to warn, and knowingly causing environmental and public health harm through the production and distribution of PFAS chemicals.

Broader Goals of the PFAS Litigation

Beyond seeking compensation for damages, the PFAS litigation aims to achieve several broader objectives that extend beyond individual claims.

These goals include:

1. Corporate Accountability: Holding manufacturers and companies responsible for the harm caused by their products and ensuring they contribute to cleanup efforts and victim compensation.
2. Regulatory Reform: Encouraging stricter oversight and regulations for the production, use, and disposal of PFAS chemicals to prevent future contamination and protect public health.
3. Public Awareness: Raising awareness of the dangers associated with PFAS exposure, empowering communities to advocate for safer water systems and protective measures.
4. Environmental Remediation: Securing funding for the cleanup of contaminated sites, including water supplies, soil, and ecosystems, to mitigate the long-term environmental impact of PFAS pollution.
5. Health Research and Monitoring: Promoting scientific studies to better understand the health effects of PFAS exposure and establish treatment protocols for affected individuals.

The litigation serves as a catalyst for systemic change, pushing industries and governments to prioritize environmental and public health and ensure that affected communities receive the justice and protection they deserve.

Do You Qualify For The Eglin Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one lived, worked, or relied on drinking water near Eglin Air Force Base and experienced health issues potentially linked to PFAS exposure, you may qualify for legal action.

PFAS contamination at Eglin AFB has been detected at dangerously high levels, raising serious concerns about its impact on human health and the surrounding environment.

Common health conditions linked to PFAS exposure include cancer, thyroid disease, immune system suppression, and developmental issues, among others.

To determine eligibility, potential plaintiffs must demonstrate exposure to PFAS-contaminated water and a connection between that exposure and the harm they have suffered.

This could include individuals who consumed contaminated water from private wells or public systems, as well as those who lived near or worked on the base during times when PFAS contamination occurred.

Compensation may cover medical expenses, property damage, and other losses related to PFAS exposure.

Consulting with an experienced attorney is critical to understanding your rights and building a strong case.

A free case evaluation can help assess your eligibility and provide guidance on the next steps in pursuing a claim.

Gathering Evidence

Building a successful PFAS lawsuit requires detailed and compelling evidence to establish the link between PFAS exposure and the harm experienced.

Plaintiffs must gather documentation that highlights their exposure, the levels of PFAS contamination in their water sources, and the health issues they’ve endured as a result.

Key types of evidence include:

• Water Testing Results: Records showing the presence of PFAS in local water sources, such as private wells or public systems, are critical. Reports from organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Environmental Working Group (EWG) can also support your case.
• Medical Records: Documentation of health conditions associated with PFAS exposure, including cancer, thyroid disease, or immune-related disorders, helps establish the impact on your well-being.
• Employment or Residency Records: Proof that you lived or worked near Eglin AFB during periods of known contamination can establish your exposure.
• Environmental Reports: Studies and reports detailing PFAS contamination levels at Eglin AFB, such as data on groundwater and drinking water, can provide critical context for your claim.
• Expert Testimony: Medical and environmental experts can strengthen your case by explaining the connection between PFAS exposure and the harm you experienced.

An experienced attorney can assist in gathering and organizing this evidence, ensuring it effectively supports your claim.

Taking prompt action to collect documentation and connect with legal counsel is essential for building a compelling case and pursuing the compensation you deserve.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating PFAS Claims at Eglin AFB

TorHoerman Law is actively investigating claims related to PFAS contamination at Eglin Air Force Base (AFB) and the devastating health and environmental consequences tied to these toxic chemicals.

As one of the nation’s premier legal advocates for environmental justice, our firm is dedicated to helping those impacted by PFAS exposure seek the compensation they deserve.

Eglin AFB has been identified as a significant source of PFAS contamination due to the historical use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) for firefighting training and emergency responses.

The detection of PFAS chemicals at dangerously high levels in groundwater and drinking water has raised serious concerns for the health and well-being of service members, civilian employees, and local communities near the base.

PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are linked to severe health risks, including cancer, thyroid disorders, immune system suppression, and developmental issues.

Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of PFAS litigation, from identifying responsible parties to gathering scientific evidence and pursuing justice through the legal process.

We are committed to holding accountable the entities responsible for the contamination, including manufacturers of AFFF and the Department of Defense.

TorHoerman Law works tirelessly to secure financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other damages caused by PFAS exposure.

If you or a loved one has been affected by PFAS contamination at Eglin AFB, our team is here to help.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation or use the chatbot on this page for an instant case evaluation.

Let us guide you through the legal process and advocate for justice on your behalf.