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K2 (Stronghold Freedom) hosted US forces from 2001 to 2005. Service members reported black goo, glowing ponds, and documented soil contamination.
Sources: VA.gov exposure
Post-9/11 service at K2 falls under the PACT Act burn-pit presumptions, so the burn-pit presumptive conditions apply. K2-specific contaminants may support additional claims with a nexus.
See the full PACT Act — Burn Pits & Airborne Hazardspresumptive conditions →With qualifying service and a current diagnosis of one of these, the VA presumes the service connection. You still file a claim.
Source: VA.gov. Presumptive eligibility changes as new laws take effect and depends on your specific service; confirm current eligibility with the Exposure Checker or a free VSO.
Educational content, not professional advice
This article is published by Military Transition Toolkit for educational and planning purposes. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice. VA rating criteria, benefits, and regulations change — verify anything benefits-affecting against VA.gov, 38 CFR Part 4, or a VA-accredited representative (VSO, agent, or attorney) before filing.
MTT is a veteran-owned planning tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, or any military branch.