New EOD Unit Trains in Africa
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS041115-13
Release Date: 11/16/2004 12:15:00 AM
By Journalist Seaman Joe Ebalo, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/ Commander, 5th Fleet Public Affairs
CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (NNS) -- Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 8 Det. 18 successfully performed its first training exercise in the Horn of Africa Oct. 23.
The unit responded to a mock bomb threat on the outside fence of Camp Lemonier, Djibouti, by securing the area and neutralizing the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) before it could harm the camp or any personnel.
"In the Horn of Africa, we have a great opportunity to train in the field and to contribute to the camp. By holding training operations, we can prepare for future bomb threats and adjust to our new location," said Chief Hull Technician Dan Trout, leading chief petty officer of EODMU 8, Det. 18.
The exercise began when a security unit located a suspicious device, contacted Camp Lemonier's emergency quick response teams and secured the area.
EODMU 8, Det. 18 sent a team to respond to the bomb threat. Upon arrival, the unit surveyed the area, x-rayed and disarmed the IED.
"The primary goal of our unit is to ensure camp safety by responding to bomb threats, and by monitoring and securing the base areas, including the main camp, flight line and supply area," said Trout. "Our second responsibility is to go out there and work on IED education and training with our host nation and allies.
EODMU 8, Det. 18 arrived at Camp Lemonier, Djibouti, to relieve EODMU 8, Det. 20 in October. The unit is on a deployment from their home base at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily.
"The EOD detachment that was here before us built strong working relationships with the units on the camp and developed an active role in camp operations," he continued. "EODMU 8 Det. 18 plans to strengthen those relationships as they integrate with other units at Camp Lemonier."
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