EOD flight continuously trains to protect

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Chuck Broadway
  • 9th RW Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., (ACCNS) --  Training, training and more training, that's the daily routine of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal flight member at Beale. Why do they train so much? It's because EOD members deploy frequently and always have to be ready. 

"Since I've been flight chief, I've made training my top priority," said Master Sgt. David Teague, the 9th Civil Engineer Squadron EOD flight chief. 

The EOD flight trains in nine different mission areas ranging from operational range clearance to weapons of mass destruction, to federal agency support. This means they could be called upon for anything from clearing bomb ranges after use to destroying innovative explosive devices with hazardous materials or protecting personnel such as the president. 

The training schedule includes twice-weekly morning classes and hands-on training those afternoons. They also have several evaluations throughout their training to assist in the learning process. The EOD members at Beale have shown they are fast learners and retain information well. 

"My team is young, but very motivated and capable," Sergeant Teague said. "They're highly trained and considering the short time they've been in the Air Force, they have good experience." 

The experience and knowledge flight members learn in exercises helps them when deployed as they work constantly with the Army. 

"Our skill set matches with other services," Sergeant Teague said. "Most of our missions are tasked for the Army and Marine units, but because we are trained the same way, we may get assigned to do those jobs." 

Airman 1st Class Ben Thomas, a 9th CES EOD technician who was recently tasked for an upcoming deployment, said he has learned a lot about explosives since beginning his service here and is anxious to go overseas. 

"I'm looking forward to deploying," Airman Thomas said. "It's exciting to know you're going to be working with live munitions and it's a rush anytime we get to do something, especially blowing stuff up." 

Airman Thomas' excitement supports what Sergeant Teague stated about motivation and readiness of the EOD Airmen. 

"I enjoy the training because it gives me a chance to improve my skills," Airman Thomas said. "We know what we're doing and will get a chance to use our training. This information could save my life or other people's lives." 

The EOD flight also protects members of Beale's community and the surrounding areas. They are responsible for a 200-mile radius surrounding the base and are required to respond to any military ordnance calls off base. 

When they receive a call, the EOD flight is prepared to get on the road in the blink of an eye. Their emergency response vehicle is fully equipped with everything they need in the field. Robotics, x-ray capabilities, explosive operational tools, bomb kits for opening munitions as well as explosive suits are kept on stand-by for incoming calls.

"We get in the truck and just go," Sergeant Teague said. "It has everything we need to protect people from hazards associated with unexploded ordnance and other terrorist devices." 

Whether an ordnance has been spotted by someone in the local area or in the deployed environment, EOD's well-trained staff is prepared to protect, both at home and abroad.