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EOD Mobile Unit Changes Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090715-32
Release Date: 7/15/2009 10:10:00 PM

By Commander, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 1 Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Group (EODMU) 1 held a change of command ceremony at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado June 10.

Cmdr. Douglas Czarnecki relieved Cmdr. Eric Wirstrom as commanding officer.

Wirstrom took command of the unit in July 2007 when it was known as Naval Special Clearance Team (NSCT) 1. The unit was renamed EODMU 1 in October 2007.

Under Wirstrom's command EODMU-1 recently returned in May from a successful deployment in Iraq. The unit's primary mission was to provide command and control and EOD counter-improvised explosive devices (IED) forces in northern Iraq. The unit responded to a total of 4,963 EOD incidents, which included 550 IEDs. EODMU 1 is also the only unit in the Department of Defense capable of conducting clandestine mine countermeasure and obstacle clearance operations in the very shallow water zone.

"You've met every challenge and exceeded expectations," said Rear Adm. Robert P. Girrier, vice commander, Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command, who served as guest speaker. "You are among America's great warriors."

Wirstrom took a few moments to praise his Sailors and thank everyone for a job well done.

"I'm proud of the accomplishments of the command and all of the successes we have enjoyed," said Wirstom.

Wirstrom graduated from Texas A & M University and received his commission as an ensign in May 1991. Wirstrom's next assignment is at the Naval War College.

Czarnecki graduated from the University of Washington and received his commission in March 1994. His previous assignment was at Georgetown University where he completed an executive Master of Policy Management degree as part of the Navy's Political-Military Masters Program.

For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 1, visit www.navy.mil/local/eod1/.