EOD blows the DEP members' minds

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sivan Veazie
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz., --  The 355th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal Airmen hosted 60 Delayed Enlistment Program members, July 29.

The Delayed Enlistment Program is for individuals going to active duty, enlist first into the DEP. This is an actual enlistment into the inactive reserves, with an agreement to report for active at a specific time in the future. Under current regulations, one can remain in the DEP for up to 365 days.

"The purpose [of the tour] was to spread awareness about EOD and to actually get correct information from the source," said Staff Sgt. Beronica Stovall, 362nd Recruiting Squadron recruiter.

During their visit, the participants received a tour of the facility, basic knowledge of their tools and weapons, and they were able to try on the EOD bomb suit.

"That was awesome," said Rees Howard, DEP member, after taking off the bomb suit. "Attempting different movements in the suit was a little difficult, but to see what they do is still pretty cool."

"I think that the EOD impacted the applicants by showing them a different view of the Air Force that it can be more than just planes, it gave out lots of knowledge, and sparked lots of interest on what else the air force has to offer," said Stovall.

The DEP members were all from the local Tucson area and were happy to have a chance to see some of the Air Force up close and personal.

"This was a great experience," said Israel Powers, DEP member. "I can't wait to ship out and start basic [training]."