934th EOD quick to start winning awards

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Samantha Wagner
  • 934th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MINNEAPOLIS ST PAUL AIR RESERVE STATION --  The 934th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight here is less than two years old, yet has already distinguished itself as the Air Force Reserve Command's top performer for 2012.

The EOD flight received the 2012 Senior Master Sgt. Gerald J. Stryzak Award, which recognizes the most outstanding EOD flight AFRC-wide.
The 934th EOD flight is credited with 950 man hours in 13 missions assisting local civilian, federal, and military agencies with zero mishaps. It has supported eleven Homeland Security drills, including refining airport screening, and improving checkpoint security for 32 million passengers. It has also averted danger to the public by rendering safe 192 blasting caps and small explosive devices.

In addition to protecting the civilian populace, the 934th EOD Flight enables safer battlefields while deployed, which strengthens ally relations and bolsters public trust. The flight has achieved initial operational capability one year ahead of schedule and was handpicked to lead Operation Initial Link tasking.
"We had a representative from headquarters here, and it seemed like we were steam plowing through it," said Tech. Sgt. Nathan Lentsch, 934th EOD technician. "We were getting set up quicker than other bases."

They 934th unit is expected to be fully mission- capable by 2015.
It is critical for EOD technicians to be mentally and physically ready at all times. Every drill weekend is fast paced and includes live exercises and equipment maintenance.

"The personal skills we obtain and create for emergency situations are reinforced during the maintenance period as well as the exercise period," said Master Sgt. Scott Castleman, 934th EOD Flight superintendant. "Driving the robot, wearing the bomb suit, and being able to operate in hot, cold and rugged environments are perishable skills that reinforce the core competencies an EOD technician needs. That's what we do on UTAs."

Lt. Col. Bryan G. Anders, 934th Civil Engineer Squadron commander, was not surprised the EOD flight won the award despite being so new. "It's a good recognition of the leg work done by Master Sgt. Castleman", said Anders. "It highlights the professionalism of the EOD guys. They all do an outstanding job."