Admiral Elmo Zumwalt, Jr. made a significant difference as the United States Chief of Naval Operations for almost thirty years. He pushed for change and democracy in the system while he served in command.

During his stint, there has been a great increase in casualties akin to asbestos exposure mainly in shipyard workers and tradesmen. Records show an alarming 20,000 deaths due to mesothelioma in 1970 to 1979 along with those who were unable to work, disabled or then opted for immediate retirement.

Admiral Zumwalt was presumably exposed to asbestos on a number of occasions and at the age of 78 he was diagnosed with mesothelioma. Even before he was diagnosed with the disease he already rallied against the use of chemicals harmful to the environment. His passion was brought about by his 42 year old son’s early demise from cancer. He was witness to the widespread mesothelioma and other asbestos influenced health issues during his administration. He actively participated in a campaign to protect both men and women of the Navy from environmental health threats.

Admiral Zumwalt joined a five kilometer run, which led to the discovery that he was suffering from mesothelioma. He had an unexpected shortness of breath during the event. A chest X-ray revealed a lung tumor after two months. Sadly, he died only half a year from diagnosis of the fatal disease on January 2, 2000. Today is the ten year anniversary of his death.

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