As another R-class submarine, the USS R-9 (SS-86) was laid down in 1918 at Fore River Shipbuilding Company in Massachusetts. In 1940, after having been decommissioned for 9 years, it was placed in reduced commission and continued its activity along the coast to New London. Because it underwent decommission, asbestos insulation might have been installed on the vessel. The submarine was decommissioned forever in 1945 and was later sold for scrap. Tiny, dust-like asbestos particles may be released when asbestos-containing products or materials degrade or are disturbed during maintenance or repair work. Those particles are breathed in and become lodged in the lining of the lungs and other organs. The result has been tragic. No one knows how many veterans developed an asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. What we do know is that Navy, Coast Guard, U.S. Army Transport Service, and Merchant Marine veterans are much more likely to deal with these diseases than U.S. Air Force, and Army veterans.
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