Explosives training readies reservists for deployment

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Aja Heiden
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  The 482nd Civil Engineering Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight conducted tactical lifesaving operations training here April 6 -10 to prepare Airmen for deployment.

EOD team leaders developed scenarios to train their members on various hands-on techniques such as disarming explosive ordnances, gathering intelligence and identifying explosive threats explosive devices, said Senior Master Sgt. William Williams, 482nd CES EOD program manager.

The team started their week-long training with a Tactical Operations Physical Exercise. "The TOPE is a fitness assessment designed to examine physical readiness for deployments," said Staff Sgt. Jason Cohen, 482nd CES EOD team member. They also conducted several types of dismounted counter-improvised explosive device operations during their week of training.

'The most dangerous part of this job is dismounted IED's because they offer the least amount of protection for the technician and the most risk," said Chief Master Sgt. Gavin Sinclair, 482nd CES EOD manager. "This training can save lives because the best way to learn is hands-on."

Dismounted operations require EOD teams to clear routes, perform stationary watch and gather intelligence.

"For dismounted operations we gather evidence for prosecution that can identify the bomb maker," said Tech. Sgt. Aaron Johns, 482nd CES EOD team leader.

Training also entailed classroom instruction where equipment and techniques were demonstrated. This was followed by practical exercises.

Finally, the EOD team performed multiple dismounted operations where they applied these skills.

"The EOD team gained a better understanding of how dismounted operations work and we got a chance to practice handling IED's hands-on," said Tech. Sgt. Russ Richard, 482nd CES EOD team leader. "When we're in the field, we normally use a robot for that type of mission."

To ensure mission success, EOD technicians need to be well-trained to handle any obstacle they may encounter.

"By keeping up with training, we build confidence. If our Airmen aren't properly trained, then a lot of lives are at risk," said Cohen. "The explosives aren't going away, but we make the area safe."