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EOD Diffuses World War II Era Projectile on Guam

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS120124-07
1/24/2012

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Gabrielle Blake, Joint Region Edge Staff

DEDEDO, Guam (NNS) -- Sailors from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5 Det. Marianas disposed of an unexploded ordnance (UXO) found in the front yard of a civilian home in Dededo, Jan. 20.

"Once the EOD technicians arrived on the scene, the UXO was identified as a World War II-era, 5-inch projectile," said Lt. Brent Wadsworth EODMU 5 Det. Marianas officer in charge.

The projectile had a sensitive MK-18 mechanical time fuse, which required EOD render safe procedures (RSP) to be performed before removal to a safe disposal site was possible.

The EOD technicians worked with the Guam Police Department to safely evacuate civilian homes in the area and close off traffic prior to performing the RSP.

"Anytime EOD procedures are being performed, there is always the potential for the projectile to detonate as a result," Wadsworth said. "Once all the safety precautions were in place and the homes were evacuated, the team executed the EOD RSP."

Following proper RSP, the Sailors used a bullet modified to shoot a 2.5-inch slug at the firing mechanism of the 5-inch round. The slug destroyed the firing mechanism, rendering the round safe to transport to the EOD detonation range where it was destroyed.

"We are glad to get rid of these explosives," said Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician (EWS) Eric Von Gogh. "We are all happy and proud to do the job."

Wadsworth advises island residents who come across UXOs, to immediately contact the proper authorities and not to touch the device.

"These WWII rounds are still highly dangerous," Wadsworth said. "Anytime anyone comes across a round, do not touch it. The best action is to take note of the location then call 911 or base security immediately so we can dispose of the round properly."

EODMU 5 is a forward deployed mobile command providing EOD detachments and a fly-away recompression chamber detachment to the 7th Fleet. Their primary mission is to enable access for carrier and expeditionary strike groups, mine countermeasures operations and special operations forces. The secondary missions include supporting U.S. Secret Service and the command's naval operations sponsor in the testing and development of acquisition programs and their associated techniques and procedures.