Explosive ordnance disposal (United States Army)

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) within the United States Army is a specialized military occupational specialty (MOS) responsible for the detection, identification, safe render-safe, and disposal of unexploded ordnance (UXO), improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other hazardous materials. Army EOD technicians are highly trained experts in dealing with a wide variety of explosive threats, operating in diverse environments, including combat zones, domestic civilian communities, and underwater locations.

The primary mission of Army EOD is to protect personnel and property from explosive hazards. This involves a range of tasks, including:

• Identification: Determining the type and construction of explosive ordnance or IEDs.
• Render-Safe Procedures: Implementing techniques to neutralize or disarm explosive devices without causing detonation. This may involve using specialized tools, robots, and remote handling systems.
• Disposal: Safely destroying or removing explosive hazards after they have been rendered safe. This may involve demolition, burning, or transportation to disposal facilities.
• Intelligence Gathering: Analyzing explosive devices and tactics to gain intelligence that can be used to improve EOD procedures and counter future threats.
• Support to Civilian Authorities: Providing assistance to civilian law enforcement and emergency response agencies in dealing with explosive incidents, such as bomb threats or UXO discoveries.
• Training: Providing training to other military personnel and civilian agencies on explosive safety and awareness.

Army EOD technicians undergo rigorous and lengthy training, beginning with initial entry training and advanced individual training before attending the Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal (NAVSCOLEOD) at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. NAVSCOLEOD is a joint-service school that trains EOD technicians from all branches of the U.S. military, as well as international students. The training curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including explosive theory, electronics, robotics, demolitions, chemical and biological warfare agents, and IED defeat techniques.

Upon completion of NAVSCOLEOD, Army EOD technicians are assigned to EOD units throughout the Army, where they continue to receive ongoing training and operational experience. These units support military operations worldwide and provide assistance to civilian communities in the United States. They are essential components in ensuring the safety and security of soldiers and the public. The EOD career field is exceptionally dangerous and requires courage, technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to safety.