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Navy EOD Launches Exercise "Edged Response"

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS061011-10
Release Date: 10/11/2006 2:47:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Terrance Jefferson, Fleet Support Detachment Bahrain

MANDA BAY, Kenya (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to Mobile Diving Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1, Det. 5, and Sailors assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 8, Det. 4, are collaborating with Kenyan naval forces during a bilateral “Edged Response” training evolution, Oct. 9-19, in Manda Bay, Kenya.

“Edged Response is a bilateral training exercise between U.S. naval forces and Kenyan naval forces, and is designed to train both naval teams in a vast number of areas,” said Chief Warrant Officer David Williams, officer in charge of MDSU 1, Det. 5 and Edged Response team leader.

The 10-day training exercise encompasses a variety of subjects, including dive medicine, light-weight salvage recovery, and cutting and welding techniques, followed by practical applications.

According to Williams, this is a great way for his divers to learn about different techniques and equipment, while expanding their working relationship with the Kenyan forces.

“We’re showing the Kenyans some of our diving techniques and they’re showing us some of theirs,” Williams said. “We’re also trading ideas and learning each other’s equipment. This is an awesome training spectrum and just a great way to keep our allies close.”

Navy divers participating in the exercise say they are excited about working alongside the Kenyan navy divers.

“Meeting extraordinary people, learning about the Kenyan culture and gaining their respect and trust is just awesome,” said Electrician's Mate 1st Class (SW) Marvin Alejo, a Sailor assigned to MDSU 1, Det. 5. “The knowledge and talent shared between the two countries is great.”

“This is my first Edged Response exercise,” said Explosive Ordnance Technician 1st Class (DV/SS) Ralph Schmitz, a Sailor assigned to EODMU 8, Det. 4. “It’s an interesting experience to work with a foreign military. I’m excited. Sharing points of views with the Kenyans is an invaluable experience.”

According to the Edged Response training scenario, there is a lot of learning and cross-training taking place between the two naval diving units, which affords each of them the opportunity to reap rewarding benefits.

“The better we can train ourselves and train them, the stronger both naval forces will be,” Williams said. “We might have to conduct joint operations someday with the Kenyans. If we both are on the same page, we can expedite a productive and safe mission.”