Having received 8 battle stars for World War II service, the USS Pargo (SS-264) was laid down by the Electric Boat Company in 1942. The name of the submarine comes from a fish that is found in the West Indies. As asbestos was a common shipbuilding material at the time, the USS Pargo makes no exception. In 1960, the submarine was struck from the Naval Vessel Register and ultimately sold for scrap.
Known for its insulating and fire-retardant properties, asbestos has long been a staple in the shipbuilding industry. The mineral fibers produce fine dust. fibers become stuck in the lung cavities and never break down, causing or contributing to the development of cancers like mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other diseases like asbestosis. Sadly, those who suffer from lung cancer or mesothelioma have a very grim prognosis. Fighting these diseases can be extremely costly, which is why those who have been diagnosed should consult an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to learn more about the compensation that may be available to them.