Unique work for 268th MP soldiers

Courtesy Photo | Unsafe mortar shells placed and ready for an explosive detonation by 268th MP Company soldiers.  

CAMP BUEHRING, KUWAIT

11.30.2011

Courtesy Story

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 34th Red Bull Infantry Division

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait - Military Police soldiers are accustomed to varied and unique job and mission assignments. Several soldiers from the 268th Military Police Company based in Ripley, Tenn., were selected as part of an Explosive Ordinance Disposal mission that very few soldiers have the opportunity to experience.

Soldiers from the 268th MP Company were assigned to the EOD mission for 5 months. During that time, the soldiers were afforded the chance to gain valuable and exiting experience working with trained EOD technicians tasked with destruction of ammunition and explosives that have become damaged or otherwise not suitable to retain in the inventory.

The MP soldiers assigned to the detail were responsible for the safe preparation of ‘shot holes,’ - the manner in which selected explosives are positioned for safe destruction, either by burning or by detonating with explosives.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the job was that “they [EOD Cadre] trusted us enough – as non- EOD techs – to prepare our own shot holes,” said Spc. Charles Smith of Cordova, Tenn., a member of the 268th MP Company. “It says a lot about us as soldiers.”

The MPs were able to learn highly technical aspects of handling explosive in a short amount of time. The soldiers learned the proper methods of preparing explosives and detonating devices safely and efficiently.

Spc. Smith, having no prior experience with explosives, said “I learned enough to want to join an EOD unit” upon reenlistment.
Sgt. Daniel Rowden, from Chattanooga, Tenn., a soldier assigned to the 268th MP Company echoed the sentiment.

It was the “opportunity of a lifetime, especially for an MP. The relationships were inspiring, and we looked forward to going to work every day,” said Sgt. Rowden.

In addition to destroying dangerous munitions, the soldiers were also responsible for checking training areas for Unexploded Ordinance in order to ensure a safe training environment for soldiers assigned to the area.

Despite the heavy physical demands of the job, the soldiers thoroughly enjoyed the work. “It’s a lot of work, but when you hear the boom, it’s worth it,” said Sgt. Rowden.

• Date Taken: 11.30.2011
• Date Posted: 02.12.2012 08:25
• Story ID: 83745
• Location: CAMP BUEHRING, KW