MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, North Carolina -- Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 learned how to detect improvised explosive devices during a pre-deployment training exercise at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 23.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians instructed CLB-2 Marines to properly calibrate and use a metal detector to locate and identify the simulated IEDs that were planted for training purposes in preparation for their deployment with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response Africa.
The Marines learned about different types of IEDs and how to detect them and then conducted hands-on training exercises using the equipment they learned about.
“We are going to make sure that they are exposed to some things they may see, some trends that we are aware of, to try and keep them safe while they are operating [on deployment],” said Sgt. Timothy Potter, a technician with EOD.
The Marines went through a scenario that involved sweeping an area and discovering the different threats they learned about in class. They were trained to look for wires leading to different activators like pressure plates and switches that could be rigged with explosives.
“This is good training for all Marines because IEDs are prone to [affect] anybody’s job,” said Lance Cpl. James Hazelip, a heavy engineer equipment manager with CLB-2.
Several training areas containing simulated IEDs buried in the ground triggered the detector, which emitted different sounds based on the types of materials used in the IEDs. Students used the detector to locate possible threats and looked for any visual signs of a hidden explosive device.
“We are trying to reinforce to them that [the metal detector] is a great tool to use, but there is a lot more that goes into it than just listening to the noises it makes,” Potter said.
Students looked for freshly dug up dirt, exposed wires and other signs to determine if there was a hazard, what it was and how to resolve it.
“We want to keep them in the mindset of always being aware of their surroundings,” said Potter. “It’s very important to never get complacent, no matter where you are.”