Galena Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit [2025 Update]

PFAS Detected at Dangerous Levels in Galena Air Force Base

The former Galena Air Force Base in Alaska has been identified as a significant site of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination.

Testing conducted at the base revealed combined concentrations of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) reaching 257,710 parts per trillion (ppt), a level substantially exceeding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) health advisory limit of 4 ppt.

These elevated PFAS levels pose serious health risks to both former base personnel and residents of the surrounding communities.

Sources of PFAS Contamination in Galena AFB

The primary source of PFAS contamination at Galena Air Force Base is the historical use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) for firefighting purposes.

AFFF, widely used by military installations for aircraft fire suppression, contains high concentrations of PFAS chemicals.

Routine training exercises and emergency responses led to the release of these substances into the environment, contaminating soil and groundwater over time.

PFAS Levels Detected at Galena AFB

Testing at Galena Air Force Base has revealed dangerously high levels of PFAS contamination in groundwater, far exceeding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) health advisory limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS.

Reports indicate that PFOA levels are more than 63,000 times higher than the EPA’s threshold, and PFOS levels exceed the standard by nearly 3,700 times.

Key PFAS Concentration Levels include:

• Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA): 253,000 ppt
• Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS): 14,800 ppt
• Perfluorobutanesulfonic Acid (PFBS): 5,600 ppt

These alarming concentrations highlight the serious environmental and public health risks posed by PFAS contamination at the base.

Individuals exposed to PFAS-contaminated water may face an increased risk of severe health conditions, necessitating urgent remediation and legal action to address the ongoing hazards.

Impacted Populations at Galena AFB

The PFAS contamination at Galena AFB affects multiple groups, including former military personnel stationed at the base, their families, and residents of the nearby City of Galena.

Exposure pathways primarily involve the consumption of contaminated drinking water drawn from local wells.

Long-term exposure to elevated PFAS levels has been linked to various health issues, such as cancer, thyroid disease, and other serious conditions.

The presence of PFAS in groundwater at Galena AFB raises serious concerns about drinking water contamination, particularly for those who relied on local well water near the base.

Addressing PFAS at Galena AFB

In response to the contamination, the Air Force, in collaboration with the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), has initiated cleanup efforts under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).

These efforts include environmental assessments, removal of contaminated materials, and ongoing monitoring to prevent further exposure.

In response to growing concerns over military-related PFAS contamination, provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) have directed the Department of Defense to accelerate PFAS remediation efforts at contaminated bases, including Galena AFB.

Broader Implications of PFAS Contamination at Galena AFB

The situation at Galena AFB reflects a broader issue of PFAS contamination at military sites nationwide.

Galena AFB is not the only military site struggling with PFAS contamination. Locations such as Blue Grass Army Depot in Kentucky and McAlester Army Ammunition Plant in Oklahoma have also detected high levels of PFAS in groundwater, raising concerns for service members and nearby communities.

The widespread use of PFAS-containing firefighting foams has led to environmental and health concerns across numerous installations.

Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts involving federal agencies, state regulators, and affected communities to implement effective remediation strategies and prevent future contamination.

What Are PFAS Chemicals and Why Are They Dangerous?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of human-made chemicals that have been used in industrial and consumer products since the 1940s.

They are valued for their water- and grease-resistant properties, making them common in firefighting foams, nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and food packaging.

PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down naturally, persisting in the environment and accumulating in human and animal bodies over time.

Their widespread use has led to contamination of soil, air, and especially water sources near industrial sites, military installations, and landfills.

Why Are PFAS Considered Dangerous?

PFAS chemicals are considered hazardous due to their persistence and bioaccumulative nature, meaning they build up in the body over time and remain in the environment indefinitely.

Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues, including cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system suppression.

Because PFAS do not degrade easily, they continuously cycle through ecosystems, contaminating drinking water supplies and food sources.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other health agencies have raised concerns about even low levels of PFAS exposure, leading to stricter regulations and remediation efforts at contaminated sites.

Health Risks Associated with PFAS Exposure

Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to numerous adverse health effects.

Health risks can include:

• Increased cancer risks: Higher rates of kidney, testicular, and liver cancer have been found in individuals with prolonged PFAS exposure.
• Thyroid disease and hormone disruption: PFAS interfere with endocrine functions, potentially causing thyroid disorders and reproductive health issues.
• Immune system suppression: Research indicates that PFAS exposure can reduce vaccine effectiveness and increase susceptibility to infections.
• Elevated cholesterol levels and metabolic disorders: PFAS have been linked to increased cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other metabolic concerns.
• Developmental issues: Studies suggest PFAS exposure during pregnancy can lead to low birth weights, developmental delays, and other complications in infants.

Environmental Impact of PFAS

PFAS contamination is a widespread environmental crisis, affecting groundwater, surface water, air, and wildlife.

Military bases, industrial sites, and landfills are common sources of PFAS pollution, leading to contamination of drinking water supplies and aquatic ecosystems.

PFAS accumulate in fish, animals, and humans, with studies detecting these chemicals in nearly every tested water source in the U.S.

Their resistance to natural degradation means that once introduced into the environment, they continue spreading and accumulating indefinitely.

The presence of PFAS in water sources has led to regulatory actions aimed at limiting their use and implementing large-scale cleanup efforts.

The Need for Urgent Action

The persistence and toxicity of PFAS chemicals demand immediate action to prevent further contamination and health risks.

Federal and state agencies have begun setting stricter limits on PFAS levels in drinking water, with the EPA establishing new Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) to protect public health.

Cleanup efforts, including filtration technologies and alternative firefighting foams, are being explored to reduce PFAS exposure.

Complete remediation remains a significant challenge, and stronger regulatory measures, public awareness, and corporate accountability are essential to addressing this crisis.

Without decisive action, PFAS contamination will continue to pose a growing threat to human health and the environment.

Do You Qualify for the Galena Air Force Base PFAS Lawsuit?

If you lived, worked, or served at Galena Air Force Base and were exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water, you may qualify to file a lawsuit.

Many military personnel, civilian employees, and surrounding community members were unknowingly exposed to hazardous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) due to the historical use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) in firefighting training and emergency responses.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has linked PFAS exposure to severe health risks, including cancer, thyroid disease, immune disorders, and developmental issues.

To determine if you are eligible for the Galena Air Force Base PFAS lawsuit, factors can include:

• You lived, worked, or served at Galena AFB for an extended period during the years of PFAS contamination.
• You consumed or used contaminated water from on-base water systems or nearby private drinking water wells.
• You have been diagnosed with a PFAS-related illness, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, immune system disorders, or other chronic health conditions.
• You have medical records or other documentation linking your exposure to health complications.

Legal action aims to hold the Department of Defense (DoD), chemical manufacturers, and other responsible entities accountable for failing to prevent or adequately address PFAS contamination.

If you meet these criteria, an experienced PFAS attorney can help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the legal process to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future health monitoring.

Gathering Evidence for a PFAS Claim

Building a strong PFAS contamination lawsuit requires substantial evidence to establish exposure, health impacts, and financial damages.

If you were exposed to PFAS at Galena Air Force Base, gathering the following key evidence can strengthen your claim and help secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Proof of Residency, Employment, or Service at Galena AFB

To demonstrate exposure, you need to show that you lived, worked, or served at Galena Air Force Base during the period when PFAS contamination was present.

Important documentation includes:

• Military service records (for active-duty personnel and veterans).
• Employment records (for civilian workers and contractors on or near the base).
• Lease agreements, mortgage records, or utility bills proving residency near Galena AFB.

Medical Records Linking PFAS Exposure to Health Conditions

Medical evidence is essential to proving the connection between PFAS exposure and health complications.

Documents that support your case include:

• Official diagnosis of PFAS-related illnesses, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, immune disorders, or liver damage.
• Doctor’s reports and treatment history showing that your condition could be linked to PFAS contamination.
• Records of prescribed medications, treatments, and ongoing medical care related to PFAS-related diseases.

Water Testing Reports and Government Findings

Establishing the presence of PFAS chemicals in drinking water is critical in proving contamination.

Evidence may include:

• EPA and Department of Defense (DoD) reports confirming PFAS contamination at Galena AFB.
• Water testing results from local or private drinking water wells showing PFAS concentrations exceeding safe limits.
• Studies from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) or other organizations documenting PFAS pollution in military sites.

Expert Testimony and Scientific Research

Scientific evidence and expert opinions can strengthen your claim by demonstrating the link between PFAS exposure and health risks.

Supporting materials include:

• Toxicology and medical research on the long-term effects of PFAS exposure.
• Expert witness reports from medical professionals and environmental scientists explaining how PFAS chemicals contributed to your health condition.
• Historical records of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) usage at military installations, connecting Galena AFB’s firefighting activities to PFAS contamination.

Financial and Personal Loss Documentation

To pursue compensation for damages, you must show how PFAS exposure has impacted your health, finances, and quality of life.

Key evidence includes:

• Medical bills for hospital visits, treatments, medications, and long-term care.
• Pay stubs, tax records, or employment documents proving lost wages and reduced earning capacity due to health complications.
• Personal statements, testimony from family members, and psychological evaluations detailing the emotional and physical toll of PFAS-related illnesses.

Gathering and organizing this evidence can significantly strengthen your PFAS lawsuit.

If you believe your health has been affected by PFAS exposure at Galena Air Force Base, consult with an experienced PFAS attorney for a free case evaluation to explore your legal options.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating PFAS Lawsuits at Galena Air Force Base

TorHoerman Law is actively investigating the PFAS contamination at Galena Air Force Base and its impact on military personnel, veterans, civilian employees, and nearby communities.

The widespread use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) at the base has resulted in significant PFAS pollution in drinking water and groundwater, posing severe health risks to those exposed.

Numerous studies and government reports, including those from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Defense (DoD), have confirmed high PFAS levels at military installations, including Galena AFB.

These “forever chemicals” do not break down in the environment and have been linked to serious health conditions such as kidney cancer, thyroid disease, immune system disorders, and liver damage.

Despite growing awareness, affected individuals have been left to deal with long-term health consequences and mounting medical expenses.

At TorHoerman Law, we are committed to holding chemical manufacturers, government agencies, and other responsible parties accountable for their role in PFAS pollution.

Evidence suggests that companies producing and distributing PFAS-containing products, such as firefighting foam, were aware of the risks but failed to warn the public or take necessary safety measures.

We are dedicated to helping affected individuals pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to PFAS exposure.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with a PFAS-related illness after living, working, or serving at Galena Air Force Base, you may be eligible for legal action.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free consultation to discuss your options.

You can also use the chat feature on this page for an instant case evaluation to determine your eligibility for a PFAS lawsuit.