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US, Dutch Explosive Ordnance Disposal Techs Unite to Thwart Simulated IED

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS141106-05
Release Date: 11/6/2014 12:57:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jared Aldape, Bold Alligator 2014 Public Affairs

BOGUE, N.C. (NNS) -- U.S. Navy explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technicians joined their Dutch counterparts during a coalition forces training event held at Bogue Field in support of exercise Bold Alligator, Nov. 4.

A small team of EOD technicians from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 2 supported Dutch EOD forces during an improvised explosive device (IED) exercise held at a simulated entry control point (ECP).

Senior Chief Jonah Toy, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 6 and an event evaluator commended the technicians for their teamwork.

'It's great to continue fostering a working relationship with the Dutch,' said Toy. 'The success of today's training scenario proves that we can rely on each other to get our respective missions accomplished.'

The event started moments after sentries maintaining an ECP called the Navy Expeditionary Force (NEF) operations center regarding a suspected IED in a scenario-based training environment. The decision to send out both U.S. Navy and Dutch EOD technicians was made and they were quickly at the scene.

'Even though the training aids and any supposed explosive material are rendered inactive and the environment is fictitious, the safety and procedures for dealing with these scenarios are very real,' said Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 2nd Class John Bueras, assigned to EODMU 2. 'Always staying alert and making sure you're wearing the proper personal protective equipment keeps safety at the forefront and allows us to accomplish our task at hand.'

The technicians were able to put their specialized training to use and render the contents of the simulated IED safe. They then proceeded to document the scene and collect the fragments for evidence collection before the exercise concluded.

Bold Alligator is intended to improve Navy and Marine Corps amphibious core competencies. Working with coalition, NATO, allied and partner nations is a necessary investment in the current and future readiness of our forces. The exercise takes place Oct. 29 - Nov. 10, afloat and ashore along the Eastern Seaboard.