Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians from EOD Training and Evaluation Unit 2 received awards during an awards ceremony held at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Ft. Story, Aug. 23.
Rear Adm. Michael P. Tillotson, commander of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, was on hand to present the awards to the Sailors.
During the ceremony, Lt. Cmdr. Gregory M. Passons received two Defense Meritorious Service Medals. The first was presented as a result of his actions in 2008, and the other to acknowledge his involvement in improving operational capability and unit readiness during his tour at EODTEU 2.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 1st Class Gary P. Smith, who has been selected for advancement to chief petty officer, received a Bronze Star with "V" device for his service during combat operations in Iraq. He said it was his fellow technicians who helped make him successful and helped him to earn his medal.
"This award represents the valor of all the men that I was supporting that day. Their faith in me and all my EOD brethren allowed for mission success," said Smith. "I feel honored to have served with such courageous warriors."
NECC's EOD Training and Evaluation Units are specialized training units that provide advanced unit level and mobility skill training for deploying forces. These EOD forces operate in every environment, anywhere around the world. It's with forces like this that NECC is able to meet irregular challenges with flexible, agile and broad range of multimission requirements.
Article by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Simmons, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs