Harlem Veteran Dies After Fighting for Recognition Over Toxic Water Exposure

A retired Marine reservist from Harlem, Richard Corley, has passed away after a lengthy battle with illness believed to be caused by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. Corley, 66, fought for years to have his case acknowledged, filing a claim for compensation over a year and a half ago.

Corley served at Camp Lejeune in 1982, attaining the rank of gunnery sergeant, and later worked in real estate until his health declined. His family recalls that he endured excruciating pain during his final months but remained resilient until the end.

He was diagnosed with esophageal cancer and also battled a tumor near his pancreas. His health deteriorated to the point where he entered hospice care months ago. Corley’s death at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx comes 16 months after he sought recognition and compensation, claiming that his illnesses were linked to toxic water at the military base in North Carolina.

Corley’s family hopes that his case, now moving into wrongful death proceedings, will lead to additional compensation. His son, Royce, expressed regret that his father didn’t live to see justice served, adding, “He never got a chance” to complete his travel plans or see his loved ones again.

Corley’s daughter, Chantel, emphasized the importance of addressing these issues for others still affected. “This shouldn’t be just dismissed because he is deceased,” she said. “Many others are impacted by this, and justice needs to be done.”