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EOD team trains with new response vehicle

by Airman 1st Class Brigitte N. Brantley-Sisk
23rd Wing Public Affairs

10/20/2010 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Technicians from the 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight here displayed the effectiveness of a new, four-wheeled weapon that helps improve their response time and capabilities during a training scenario Oct. 13.

Known as the BSERV, the 36-foot long bomb squad emergency response vehicle was designed to help EOD units within the continental U.S. respond with all needed equipment.

"The BSERV is very spacious and allows us to travel with all of our equipment, preventing any delay when we get a call," said Senior Airman Daniel Esselstrom, a 23rd CES EOD technician. "Previously, we'd have to go and grab the equipment specific to the situation, such as aircraft incident kits or improvised explosive device response kits. Now, we can respond immediately."

A quick response in situations, such as IED threats, is crucial because of the potential damage.

To aid in responding quickly and efficiently, technicians get plenty of practice through continual training.

"We're responsible for responding to any situation on- or off-base where we are the closest unit and sometimes even when we're not," said Capt. Michael Fuller, the 23rd CES EOD officer in charge. "We set aside two days a week for training and have large exercises like this about once a month. It's important to stay proficient in all the procedures, so we can respond against any threat as needed."

Some features of the BESERV include a rear-mounted camera, lights, sirens, an intercom, fire extinguisher and a spacious work area.

The BSERV was first utilized in a real-world situation here when it responded recently to a suspected IED at a local area store.

The new vehicle was also used during the a memorial ceremony Oct. 5 in Fitzgerald, Ga., as it led the funeral procession for Senior Airman Michael Buras, an EOD technician stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., who died of injuries sustained during a roadside IED attack.