EOD operators lead successful ordnance disposal operation

Some of the items the Explosive Ordnance teams discovered while investigating a cache of munitions at a residential site in Mission, B.C. Photos supplied.

A/SLt Alexandra Cortes Munoz,
MARPAC Public Affairs 

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Another successful operation for the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)) was carried out as two Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams concluded a complex multiple-day callout alongside the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Mission, B.C., on June 19. Responding to a report of unexploded ordnance discovered at a residential site, the highly trained teams swiftly mobilized to ensure the safety and security of the community.

Initially prompted by a call regarding a single grenade, the EOD teams arrived at the scene prepared for routine disposal procedures. However, as further intelligence revealed the magnitude of the ordnance cache totaling 970 individual pieces, a rapid escalation in response was required and additional support was dispatched.

“This was by far the largest cache of munitions and ordnance I have responded to in recent memory,” said Master Sailor (MS) Charlie Chamberlain, Lead Operator of the call.

The collaboration between the EOD teams and the RCMP was essential throughout the operation. Working in close coordination, they meticulously identified, secured, and safely disposed of each ordnance item, strictly adhering to established safety protocols to mitigate risks to both personnel and the surrounding community.

“Our EOD teams respond to about a hundred of these types of incidents each year across British Columbia. They do great work disposing of dangerous explosive ordnance found by the public,” said EOD Officer Lieutenant (Navy) Jesse Deason.

Operations such as these demonstrate the capability and professionalism of FDU(P) as well as the critical role of collaboration between military, federal and civilian agencies in emergency response scenarios.

MS Chamberlain advises the public not to keep munitions or explosives, as they pose a significant risk to personnel and public safety.

“If you discover any explosives, please do not handle or move them. Contact us immediately,” he says.

For more updates and insights into FDU(P) operations, follow Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) on their social media channels on facebook @FDUP.UPF and instagram @cldvr_pldmr.