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Maintainers Keep EODMU 5 Mission Ready

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100716-22
7/16/2010

By Oyaol Ngirairikl, Joint Region Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, GUAM (NNS) -- In Afghanistan, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5's job of clearing out improvised explosive devices is crucial to the military efforts and civilian lives-- and there's one group here that makes sure that job goes smoothly every mission day.

Back in Guam, EODMU 5 Maintenance Department's top priority is to ensure that all boats, vehicles, civil engineering support equipment, and command facilities are maintained at the highest state of material readiness – whether they're to be used for training here or in the Philippines, or deployed in Afghanistan in direct support of Commander, Joint Task Force Paladin.

Maintainers also provide technical assistance and training in all aspects of boat and vehicle operation, and perform maintenance in support of EODMU 5 mission accomplishment.

Chief Engineman (SCW/SW) Jeffrey Jimenez, who oversees the maintainers, said at home and on deployment to locations including Afghanistan and the Philippines, maintainers support EOD Sailors and ensure their safety.

"Our No. 1 priority is safety; the safety of the maintainers who are doing their jobs and the safety of the people who will use the equipment that we take care of," Jimenez said. "That priority marries with our goal, which is mission accomplishment. Our job is to make sure the equipment, whether it's a boat or a Humvee or an MRAP [mine resistant ambush protected vehicle], is ready whenever they need it for a mission."

There are about 30 Sailors who work in the boat, vehicle and facilities shops at EODMU 5, which operates out of U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG). They have more than 100 Humvees, forklifts, pick-up trucks, 18-wheeler trucks, boats, boat trailers, generators and other equipment which they maintain.

In doing so, the team delivers operational excellence to meet or exceed all commitments with all customers. Jimenez said his crew is "among the best in the Navy."

"We all have to be on top of our game to ensure mission accomplishment because if there's something wrong with a vehicle or a piece of equipment, then our front-line Sailors will have a tough time getting the job done," he said.

"I'll put it this way. The EOD guys, they're sparring and fighting with the spear. We sharpen the spear and do our part to make sure the EOD Sailors can win the battle," Jimenez said. "One team, one fight."

Engineman Fireman Thinh Truong, who works in the boat shop, said he enjoys what he does and takes pride in being a part of EODMU 5. He said that while the hours at work are usually longer than the typical work day, he considers it an honor to be entrusted with such a big responsibility.

"We have some of the best Sailors, the best EOD guys, here in this squadron," he said. "They have to have equipment in the best shape possible. I do that for them."

While operations are the priority at EODMU 5, Construction Mechanic Constructionman Michael Denham, who works in the vehicle shop, said he's enjoyed working and learning while at EODMU 5.

"I was a mechanic before coming to work here, but I've been really lucky because I've had some great mentors who've helped me learn about all the different machines we're required to work on," he said. "They've really helped me grow and build what I consider a great foundation for my career in the Navy."