National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Day 2023: National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Day is a special occasion observed in the United States on the first Saturday of May. This year, it takes place on May 6. The purpose of this day is to honour those who have perished while disposing of explosives and those who continue to put their lives in danger during times of conflict. During a bomb disposal mission, a significant number of them are gravely injured and may lose limbs. These champions deserve special recognition for putting their lives on the line for the nation and its citizens.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL DAY
Despite the fact that explosives have existed since antiquity, bomb disposal organisations did not exist until World War II. This is because the war caused a large number of fatalities in many countries, and it became a time when scientists and leaders prioritised saving the greatest number of lives possible. As the conflict progressed and Germany continued to drop bombs on various European nations, other world powers began to plan a defence system. During this period, the United States anticipated being drawn into the war and took precautions against bombs. Unexploded explosives (U.X.B.) disposal was one area in which the country believed it could reduce the number of soldiers and civilians killed. Previously, engineers defused U.X.B.; however, as the impact of explosives increased, organisations specialising in bomb disposal arose.
Modern explosive disposal units were established during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Melksham Royal Air Force Station, Wiltshire, England, was the site of the earliest explosive disposal training. In September 1941, the Royal Engineers established an Army Bomb Disposal School in Donnington, United Kingdom. As army personnel found out how to disable clockwork timers, remove fuzes, and steam explosives out of bombs, the death toll gradually decreased. The United States also founded the Chemical Warfare School at Edgewood Arsenal in Maryland in 1941. Today, E.O.D. soldiers are trained professionals with a distinctive insignia who are praised for placing their lives at risk for the nation’s sake.
HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL ORDNANCE DISPOSAL DAY
Learn about the champions of the E.O.D.
Since the beginning of warfare, hundreds of E.O.D. personnel have died while defusing bombs. Investigate and learn more about the mission they undertook.
Post photographs of the hero.
You might encounter an E.O.D. hero story that touches your emotions. Share the experiences and photographs of a few of these service-oriented professionals as a way of expressing appreciation for their work.
View a documentary on the disposal of explosives
Learn more about the professionals who prevent explosives from detonating and how they operate in the field by watching a documentary. Their composure and courage may inspire you.
International Drone Day 2023: Date, History, Significance and Facts
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT EXPLOSIVES
The invention of gunpowder
Gunpowder was invented in China during the late Tang dynasty in the ninth century A.D.
The earliest form of explosive substance
Made of potassium nitrate, sulphur, and charcoal, black powder is the earliest known explosive material.
Two categories of pyrotechnic
Black gunpowder and smokeless gunpowder are the two primary varieties of gunpowder, with the latter being the modern form.
Explosives used in the United States.
Approximately 4.5 billion pounds of explosives were utilised in 2015.
Alfred Nobel invented the atomic weapon
Nobel invented dynamite and the blasting cap, and he bequeathed 31 million Swedish krona to the Nobel Peace Prize winners.
WHY NATIONAL EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL DAY IS IMPORTANT
It is motivating.
We adore the day because it serves as an inspiration for all of the country’s citizens. It demonstrates how far some members of the armed forces are willing to go to defend innocent civilians.
It honours the troops
This day honours the current bomb disposal squad as well as those who have died in various missions, such as the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. It increases our appreciation for the daily sacrifices they make to protect others.
It elevates the profession to prominence
The day is also significant because it highlights the profession, and we end up learning more about the E.O.D. It could ultimately encourage talented young individuals to pursue this area of study.
NATIONAL EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 7 | Saturday |
| 2023 | May 6 | Saturday |
| 2024 | May 4 | Saturday |
| 2025 | May 3 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 2 | Saturday |
