Fire in the hole! Explosive training readies reservists for deployment

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Aja Heiden
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  From disarming explosive ordnances to gathering intelligence to identify explosive threats, the 482nd Civil Engineering Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight conducted tactical lifesaving operations training here April 6 to 10.

The training was a collaborative project put together by the EOD team leaders to train their members various hands-on techniques used to handle improved explosives devices when deployed, said 482nd CES EOD Program Manager, Senior Master Sgt. William Williams.

The team started their week-long training with a task oriented physical exercise, known as TOPE.

"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 different 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.

CIED training also entailed classroom instruction where equipment and techniques for using it were demonstrated. This was followed by practical exercises to practice the classroom instructions. 

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."