Dravo Corporation’s Legacy in WWII Shipbuilding and the Hidden Cost of Asbestos
As we reflect on the recent 80th anniversary of D-Day, we also reflect on the remarkable contributions made by American industries that supported the war effort. One such significant contributor was the Dravo Corporation, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dravo’s pioneering shipbuilding techniques and tireless production efforts were instrumental in the Allied success during World War II, particularly in crafting the Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs) that played a vital role in the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. Alongside these monumental achievements lies a darker story of asbestos exposure that affected countless workers and veterans.
Founded in 1891 by Francis R. Dravo, the Dravo Corporation began as a business focused on steam engines and industrial machinery installations. With the addition of Francis’ brother, Ralph Marshall Dravo in 1893, the company expanded its scope to include general construction and marine transportation. This expansion laid the foundation for Dravo’s future prominence in shipbuilding and industrial construction.
In the early 20th century, Dravo diversified into constructing mine shafts, building reinforced steel caissons, and producing steel barges and towboats.
During WWII, Dravo Corporation’s shipyards were transformed into critical assets for the U.S. Navy Dravo was the first company to receive the Army-Navy “E” Award for excellence in wartime production on March 5, 1942, highlighting its superior craftsmanship and organizational efficiency.
Despite these accomplishments, Dravo’s wartime production came with an unknown cost. During the 1920s through the 1980s, asbestos was extensively used in shipbuilding for its heat-resistant properties. Insulation, engine rooms, and other critical components relied heavily on asbestos to prevent fires and manage high temperatures.
Asbestos exposure poses severe health risks. Workers who handled asbestos-laden materials and veterans who served on these ships are at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. When inhaled, asbestos can cause serious respiratory illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Unfortunately, these diseases often manifest decades after exposure, leading to long-term health consequences for many who worked in or around Dravo’s shipyards.
After WWII, Dravo Corporation faced the challenge of transitioning from wartime production to peacetime operations. The company reduced its workforce and shifted focus back to construction and marine transportation. The legacy of asbestos exposure continued to haunt many of its former employees and military veterans who served on Dravo-built ships.
Despite the somber reality of asbestos exposure, Dravo’s contributions to the war effort and industrial progress remain significant. The company’s shipyards were instrumental in producing the vessels that facilitated the successful D-Day landings and led to victories for the Allies. Dravo’s innovative shipbuilding techniques and commitment to quality earned it a lasting legacy in American industrial history.
Today, a historical marker on Neville Island serves as a tribute to Dravo’s wartime achievements, commemorating its role in building over 145 LSTs and many other vessels crucial to the Allied effort.
If you or a loved one is dealing with the consequences of asbestos exposure, we are here to help. Our commitment is to fight for the rights and well-being of those who have served our country, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
