The ceremony featured audio system and leaders from the Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal group, each lively obligation and veteran, adopted by a groundbreaking with shovels.
Audio system included Rear Admiral Brad Andros, director of J10 Directorate of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction; Capt. Chuck Eckhart, commodore of EODGRU 2; Rear Adm. Frank Morneau, ret. and board member of Navy Particular Operations Basis (NSOF), and Henry Thrift, president of Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Affiliation (Navy EODA).
The memorial can be situated on the EODGRU 2 compound, and it’ll function the names of Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians and Navy Divers who died within the line of obligation.
“This memorial can be a spot the place we are able to join with those who went earlier than us. It will also be a spot the place we join with these which are with us,” stated Andros. “Everyone seems to be coming collectively from this memorial, and we owe it to the names on the wall of the memorial to be linked with one another.”
Greater than 200 members of the Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal group attended the ceremony, together with EODGRU 2 Sailors and veterans.
The memorial can even function a wellness backyard.
“The well being and wellness portion of this backyard and memorial space pay tribute to those that made the last word sacrifice and serves as a catalyst for renewal,” stated Eckhart. “This memorial space will present a nurturing atmosphere that cultivates the entire operator by fostering not solely reflective pondering and workforce mindfulness, but in addition their holistic nicely being.”
NSOF and Navy EODA are funding the development of the memorial and backyard.
“With out the assist of Navy Particular Operations Basis and the Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Affiliation, right this moment wouldn’t be doable,” stated Eckhart.
The memorial and backyard can be accomplished in February 2024.
EODGRU 2 is a crucial a part of the Navy Expeditionary Fight Power (NECF) that clears explosive hazards to offer entry to denied areas; secures the undersea area for full freedom of maneuver; builds and fosters relationships with a constellation of succesful and trusted companions; and protects the homeland and American lifestyle.
