Moody EOD stands down operations, focuses on safety Published Nov. 9, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Brigitte Brantley 23rd Wing Public Affairs MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Since the beginning of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, the ops tempo for the Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal career field has seen a tremendous increase. Because many EOD Airmen are deploying more frequently and for longer periods of time, the Air Force approved an EOD safety day Nov. 13, a strategic pause in operations, which will allow Airmen to refocus on standard operating procedures and safety to avoid future loss of life or limb. "The purpose of this safety day is to help us refocus our minds on our missions and continue accomplishing them safely," said Capt. Rob Scott, 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron EOD flight commander. "The nature of this career field mandates we always stay one step ahead of the enemy and this day allows us to stop and consider how to accomplish the mission while staying as safe as possible." This is the second year this safety day will be observed and it gives the involved Airmen a chance to discuss possible scenarios and focus on safety. EOD units will also meet with various sources on base such as medical and chaplain representatives to discuss the consequences of combat stress on the Airmen and their families. "There might be a misconception that those in our career field are loose cannons," Captain Scott added. "The stresses we handle are incredible, and dealing with them well is a testament to the strength and resiliency of our individuals. While there is obviously an adrenaline factor to what we do, all our actions are very tempered because of the risks involved."