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EOD trains Airmen to use ground burst simulators

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Amanda Morris
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
Airmen from the 36th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosives Ordnance Disposal Flight trained Andersen Airmen to safely handle, store and utilize ground burst simulators in preparation for the upcoming base operational readiness exercise scheduled for Sept. 9-13.

Ground burst simulators are explosive devices used to simulate ground attacks. The flash powder inside of the device is ignited by a pyrotechnic delay initiating an explosion. These explosions are used to familiarize Airmen with sounds during exercises that they don't encounter on a daily basis. Smoke grenades are also used to improve scenarios.

"GBS give a sense of reality to exercise scenarios and create a sense of urgency in the local area," said Airman 1st Class Shane Bigham, 36th Civil Engineer Squadron EOD apprentice. "Having a realistic sound can help make an exercise have a real-world feel."

EOD trains Andersen Airmen on GBS prior to every exercise. The training takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

During the class, users train to inspect the GBS devices for any exterior damage, how to arm the explosive and proper throwing technique. Because the class deals with live explosives, Airmen are required to wear proper personal protective equipment to include: eye protection, Kevlar helmet, flak vest and leather gloves.

"For EOD, we are qualified to handle explosions because we train with them weekly, but for someone who hasn't been around them very often, the extra safety precautions give them comfort; especially, if they are timid," Bigham said. "Without training, they might do the wrong thing and cause an accident."

With safety being the main prerogative during the class, wing inspection team members finish the course with the knowledge to properly use the GBS.

"During the course I attended, we trained how to safely transport, handle and deploy GBS and smokes," said Master Sgt. Timothy Anderson, 36th Wing Safety weapons safety superintendent. "That, and how to dispose of dud GBS as well. This course has greatly reduced the potential for mishaps involving personnel or property.

"So far, we have had no issues to date with safety and using the GBS mainly due to this course. As a member of the wing inspection team as well as the wing safety office, I would like to thank EOD for training Andersen personnel to be safe when using these devices. It makes my job a heck of a lot easier."

As Andersen continues to train year round with base operational readiness exercises, the Airmen of the 36th CES EOD Flight will continue to ensure the safety of personnel using GBS by continuing to teach this course.