MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Approximately 20 Marines with 2nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company conducted a Protective Works Demolition Range at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 12, 2016.
The range focused on testing the effectiveness of procedures that allow EOD to mitigate explosions and fragmentations that could otherwise harm people or damage important buildings.
“Our mission while [executing] protective works is to protect personnel and property,” said Staff Sgt. Travis Vuocolo, an EOD technician with the unit. “This type of training [enables] us to rehearse a variety of methods that reduce the effects of a blast and allows us to continue applying our skills.”
EOD conducts this training semi-annually and utilizes the range as an opportunity to not only maintain their skills; but to strengthen them.
“We’re constantly getting better at what we do,” Vuocolo said. “We take this training very seriously because we want to make sure we are prepared for any scenario where [our services] are needed.”
Key leaders and Marines interested in on the job training were welcomed to observe the range; therefore, the unit trains persistently and diligently to demonstrate their capabilities to all Marines within II Marine Expeditionary Force.
“We enjoy bringing out prospective Marines interested in joining EOD,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Fitzpatrick, EOD team leader with the unit. “We also bring out the battalion commander and other officers, so they can see how we operate and understand how to best utilize us in the field.”
Despite whatever obstacles they may face in the future, the unit validated they are capable of applying their skills in any combat scenario throughout the world.
“We have very experienced Marines in our unit today.” Fitzpatrick said. “I am more than 100 percent confident that we would successfully execute our missions if we had to deploy tomorrow.”
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